In Print, summer 2026

Professor’s book examines Supreme Court ruling’s impact on religious expression in schools

Dr. Brett A. Geier, professor of educational leadership in K-12 leadership, examines religion and public education in his 2025 book, “The Changing Landscape of Religious Expression in U.S. Public Schools.” The book centers on the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court case Kennedy v. Bremerton School District, which addressed a high school football coach’s postgame prayer and reshaped legal interpretations nationwide. Geier explains how the ruling altered longtime standards governing the separation of church and state and expanded protections for individual religious expression. Drawing on his experience as a legal scholar and former public school administrator, he places the decision within a broader historical and constitutional framework. The book reviews earlier court precedents, analyzes the majority and dissenting opinions, and outlines potential implications for public schools as districts respond to changing legal guidance following the decision.

Award-winning author’s new collection explores the life of Nina Simone through poetry

Shonda Buchanan, a poet and associate professor of English, published “The Lost Songs of Nina Simone” in May 2025 with RIZE Press. The poetry collection examines the life and legacy of Nina Simone, the influential American singer, pianist, songwriter and civil rights activist. The book traces Simone’s artistic development, political engagement and personal struggles while connecting her experiences to the broader lives of Black women in America. Through poems grounded in historical research, Buchanan moves from Simone’s family roots and childhood to her emergence as a musician and cultural figure. Buchanan is the author of several poetry collections and a memoir.

Faculty specialist’s textbook promotes screen awareness for early childhood educators

Melinda Holohan, faculty specialist II of family science and human development, is co‑author of a new textbook addressing young children’s development in an increasingly digital world. Published by Teachers College Press, “Screen‑Aware Early Childhood: A Realistic Approach to Helping Young Children Thrive in a Digitally Complex World” introduces a research‑based framework to help early childhood professionals make intentional decisions about screen use across home, classroom and childcare settings.

The book presents a framework that centers children’s developmental well‑being and rights while recognizing the realities of a media‑saturated society. Holohan and her co‑authors examine current research on young children and screens, challenge common beliefs and explore the influence of screen‑based media industries. Written for students and working professionals, the book connects research to practice and provides educators with practical tools to support healthy child development amid ongoing changes in technology.