Explorez tous les épisodes de Our Classroom
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Sep 2021 | Episode 1 | Filmmaking w/ Starling the Kid (Estarlyn Hiraldo) | 00:35:10 | |
Welcome to Our Classroom! In this space, we talk about education, which is inclusive of but not limited to what happens in schools. Education is taking place whenever and wherever we are willing to learn. Today’s episode features Starling The Kid. In this conversation Roberto and Starling chop it up about his educational journey, his aspirations to become the first Dominican Steven Spielberg and their recent collaboration on Yo Soy Un Plátano. Born Estarlyn J. Hiraldo, Starling The Kid is a Dominican multimedia artist, filmmaker, and musician from Lawrence, MA. Art direction, music production, songwriting/lyricism, poetry, photography, painting, drawing, sculpting, and graphic design are all part of his artistic practice. His curiosity and creativity is ever-changing as he is constantly experimenting with different forms of art. Starling’s work heavily explores the immigrant experience and search for identity. Starling utilizes his art to educate communities around the world about social injustices. His coming-of-age stories give a voice to the voiceless; they shine light on the perspectives of marginalized individuals and their respective groups. He tells underrepresented stories in relatable but compelling ways, stories that embrace the beauty to be found in hardship and struggle. This is often the nature of relationships and family ties in marginalized communities. In 2016, Starling paid homage to his adolescent journey growing up in his hometown upon releasing his first Hip-Hop music project "In the Midst of Adolescence." The mixtape was followed with the release of his first official single "L.A.W.R.E.N.C.E." earlier that year. Starling has written, directed, and produced a series of short films: "Heritage" (2018), "Poor Justice" (2019), and "Into the Frame" (2020). Starling has also acted in a series of indie short films, interviews, and documentaries. He was the producer for Michael.T’s third and upcoming short film “JUNE 22ND.” Graduating from Providence College with a background in Sociology, Film/Video, and Business Innovation solidified his interest in pursuing a film/TV career in Directing/Producing. Starling’s goal is to make the world a more inclusive place by challenging what art is versus what it should be. He strives to redefine what storytelling does for society and how it defines the human experience. You can expect new project releases and unique ways to tell stories coming soon! Credits: | |||
| 04 Oct 2021 | Episode 2 | The Rural Schools Experience w/ Dan Cummings | 00:37:04 | |
Today’s episode features Dan Cummings. In this conversation, Roberto and Dan chop it up about the experience of leading a rural school, the common thread of poverty experienced in many rural and urban schools, and what justice work looks like in this setting. Dan is a career educator who has taught in a variety of educational settings, from Alternative High Schools to College Prep Schools, parochial to public. He is in his 23rd year as an educator and 8th year as a principal. Degrees from Colorado State University and Middlebury College, he is an avid practitioner of the martial arts and an amateur photographer. He and his wife just celebrated twenty years of marriage and spent the last 6 months building a small, off-grid cabin in the middle of nowhere Colorado. Credits: Guest: Dan Cummings Host: Roberto Germán Editor: Jabi Marketing (Javier Roche) #people #students #community #families #school #poverty, #education #ruralcommunity #college #justice #ruraltown #colorado | |||
| 13 Oct 2021 | Episode 3 | Black & Brown Founders / CHROMA 2021 Event w/ Deldelp Media | 00:46:56 | |
Today’s episode features Deldelp Medina of Black and Brown Founders. Deldep has 10 plus years experience in Diversity and Inclusion, Design Thinking, Product Market Fit, Lean Startup, scaling and investment strategy. She brings her cross-cultural expertise engage in meeting the demographic shift. She does this by identifying, pitching, structuring, relationship building, negotiating and creating close strategic partnerships. Deldep was also listed as one of the 6 Latina Founders to Watch in TechCrunch. Deldelp joined to discuss the Chroma 2021 event taking place October 14th-16th. Credits: | |||
| 30 Oct 2021 | Episode 4 | Natural Hair Movement w/ Yeimy Medina | 00:39:45 | |
Today’s episode features Yeimy Medina. She was born in Dominican Republic, grew up in Curacao. Growing up she never loved my natural hair and didn’t think it was beautiful. In the Dominican Republic if you have natural hair it is considered “bad” hair. In 2019, a friend inspired Yeimy and encouraged her to love her natural hair the way that God created it. Yeimy did her big chop in April 2019 and had to learn how to love and care for her natural hair. She created a natural hair page because she wanted to encourage other women to love themselves the way that God made them. #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #NaturalHair #AfroLatino #bighairdontcare #podcast #OurClassroomPodcast #education #HairLove Credits: | |||
| 11 Nov 2021 | Episode 5 | Philosophy of Race w/ Jordan Botello | 00:39:45 | |
Today’s episode features Jordan Botello. He is a PhD Student and Graduate Teaching Fellow in the Department of Philosophy at The Graduate Center, CUNY in New York City. Currently he teaches at Brooklyn College. His areas of interest are Metaphysics, Philosophy of Language, Critical Philosophy of Race, Philosophy of Law and Philosophy of Religion. In particular, he has been doing research on the semantics/pragmatics of racial slurs and the implications this has for appropriation and free speech laws. He also does research on theorizing about racial justice. Before that, he was a J.T. & Margaret Talkington Fellow and Graduate Instructor in the Department of Philosophy at Texas Tech University, where he earned his MA in Philosophy. Jordan also founded the Minorities and Philosophy (MAP) chapter at Texas Tech. Jordan is also a TExES Social Studies 7-12 (232) Certified Educator in the state of Texas. He taught high school in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #criticalracetheory #criticalphilosophyofrace #charlesmills#CUNY #BrooklynCollege #podcast #OurClassroomPodcast #education Credits: | |||
| 24 Nov 2021 | Episode 6 | Integrating Culture in Language Classrooms | 00:29:56 | |
Today's episode features Roberto being interviewed on Rosa Bell's PLC (Professional Learning Community) discussing how to integrate culture in Spanish Language classrooms through poetry. #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #SpanishTeachers #AfroLatino #languageteachers #podcast #OurClassroomPodcast #education #culture #PLC #ProfessionalLearningCommunity Credits: | |||
| 10 Dec 2021 | Episode 7 | El's Mirror w/ Authors Ellison & Bavu Blakes | 00:40:28 | |
Today’s episode features Ellison & Bavu Blakes discussing their self-published book El’s Mirror. El’s Mirror is an upper elementary picture book and a reflective tool for families, parents, mentors, leaders, and educators of children. Ellison Blakes is a scientist, pianist, researcher, athlete and baller, video game lover & designer, sports analyst, and author. After Mama’s prediction (with a wink) came true, Dad started helping him create El’s Mirror. Ellison is a 5th grader who still goes to the school up the street from the big house full of books and art on the West side of the South. Bavu Blakes is a Scholar Emcee deliberately walking through the intersection of Hip Hop, education, and spirituality. His research goals center the various ways that the Hip Hop generation leverages its resources for today's generation. Blakes is a national educational consultant as well as a celebrated songwriter whose studio collaborators include Grammy winners Adrian Quesada, Symbolyc One, Gary Clark, Jr., and several more. El’s Mirror can be purchased at the Hip Hop Grew Up website. | |||
| 22 Dec 2021 | Episode 8 | Ava's Caribbean ABC w/ Authors Dr. Lois Marshall Barker & Ava Barker | 00:34:15 | |
Dr. Lois Marshall Barker & Ava Barker discuss their picture book Ava’s Caribbean ABC. They express the importance of cultural affirmation. Dr. Lois Marshall Barker is a Grenadian native and creative currently living in Houston, Texas. She has over 14 years of experience in education. Dr. Barker has served as a high school ELA teacher, instructional coach and now a curriculum developer. She works closely with educators to revamp curriculum and structures to ensure all students are seen and have an opportunity to be successful as defined by them. Ava is a 12 year old creative and native Texan proud of Grenadian heritage. She is president of her school’s Theatre Club and landing roles in productions of Junie B. Jones and The Super Non-Heroes . Ava is an avid reader of graphic novels and historical fiction. At school, Ava is very passionate about having access to books that reflect all stories including hers. She is also very vocal about teaching history beyond the eyes of the settlers making sure all perspectives and truths are told. | |||
| 05 Jan 2022 | Episode 9 | Restorative Resistance in Higher Education w/ Dr. Richard J. Reddick | 01:01:53 | |
Dr. Richard Reddick helps us unpack the notion of Restorative Resistance in Higher Education. He also shares his experience leading The Eyes of Texas History Committee and University of Texas-Austin. Finally, he shares a bit about how he engages in self-care. Richard J. Reddick, Ed.D. is the inaugural Associate Dean for Equity, Community Engagement, and Outreach and Distinguished Service Professor in Educational Leadership and Policy in the College of Education at The University of Texas at Austin. He is also faculty co-chair of the Institute for Educational Management (IEM) and Bravely Confronting Racism in Higher Education at the Harvard University Graduate School of Education. Dr. Reddick conducts ethnographic research on the experiences of faculty of color in predominantly White university settings, mentoring relationships in higher education, Black families in American society, and work-family balance in junior faculty fathers. A former elementary and middle school teacher, he remains active in scholarship and community work as a member of two charter school boards in Austin, Texas. Dr. Reddick is the co-host of the KUT public radio podcast and radio segment Black Austin Matters with Dr. Lisa B. Thompson, and regularly contributes opinion pieces to the Chronicle of Higher Education, CNN, NBC Think, Fortune, and major dailies across Texas and the nation. He is a graduate of Department of Defense Dependent Schools and public schools in East Austin, and earned his bachelors, master’s, and doctoral degrees from The University of Texas at Austin and Harvard University. Dr. Reddick is a husband, son, brother, and father of two. For more education resources subscribe to https://www.multiculturalclassroom.com/ | |||
| 11 Jan 2022 | Episode 10 | Colorism in the Latina/o/e Community | 00:40:21 | |
A couple months ago, Roberto was asked participate on a virtual panel regarding colorism in the Latina/o/e Community. The event was organized by AP for All NYC and hosted by Marisol Manríquez and Dr. Akua Kisiwaa-Adefope. In addition to Roberto, it featured Dr. Gloria Rosario-Wallacef, Rosa Bell and Dr. Soribel Genao. The panelists were asked to consider the following questions: 1. What does colorism mean to you? What does anti-blackness mean to you? How are they the same/or different? How does it show up in your life? 2. How does racism and discrimination toward Afro & Indigenous-Latin/o/a/e/s differ in Latin America and the United States? What have been your experiences? 3. How do you see your role in working towards social and racial justice within the Latin/o/a/e community? What is your ask from White Latin/o/a/e co-conspirators? 4. Explain the origin and contexts of colorism in the Latin/o/a/e community. How would you describe the level of awareness of colorism within the Latin/o/a/e community? 5. What resources can educators use to educate themselves and guide them in supporting student experiences in the classroom? In what initiatives are you currently involved regarding this topic? Much to absorb in this episode. Welcome to Our Classroom!
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| 19 Jan 2022 | Episode 11 | Yefferson, Actually / En Realidad, Es Yefferson with Author Katherine Trejo | 00:40:21 | |
Say my name, say my name! Yes, a throwback Destiny’s Child reference but it works in this case. Katherine Trejo is today’s guest and we are discussing her book Yefferson, Actually / En Realidad, Yefferson. Katherine Trejo is a first-generation Salvadoran-American college graduate with a bachelor’s degree in politics and Latin American/Latino studies from UC Santa Cruz. She lives in Historic Filipinotown with her Boston Terrier Lily, mom, brother, cousins, aunts, grandma, niece, and nephew in the same apartment complex where she was raised. She enjoys spending time with friends and family and watching cartoons. She co-authored Yefferson, Actually/En Realidad Es Yefferson with Mr. Scott Martin-Rowe, one of her most influential and favorite teachers in high school. Follow Katherine via Instagram @katbaggins Follow Scott Martin-Rowe @scottmartinrowe Follow Karla Monterrosa @internetkarla Follow Lil' Libros @lil_libros Click here to purchase Yefferson, Actually / En Realidad, Es Yefferson | |||
| 24 Jan 2022 | Episode 12 | MLK Reflections w/ Lorena Germán, José Luis Vilson, Tiffany Jewell, Tamara Russell, and Tricia Ebvaria | 00:58:04 | |
On Monday, January 17th, Multicultural Classroom hosted an MLK, Jr. Summit. Lorena Germán facilitated brief conversations all day long. Our guests included José Luis Vilson, Tiffany Jewell, Tamara Russell, and Tricia Ebvaria. This episode weaves the four conversations together for insightful and fruitful reflections about Martin Luther King, Jr's life and legacy, and the impact his work still has on us today. Follow our guest(s) @multiculturalclassroom @thejosevilson @tiffanymjewell @mrsrussellsroom @triciaebarvia For more education resources subscribe to: | |||
| 27 Jan 2022 | Episode 13 | How To Talk To Your Teen About Anything w/ Author Katie Malinski | 00:34:39 | |
It’s about building relationships and effective communication! Great talk with Katie Malinski as we discussed her book How to Talk to Your Teen About Anything. She shared strategies that parents and educator alike can implement. Katie Malinski, LCSW-S, is an Austin-based parenting coach and family therapist. With over 2 decades' experience, Katie helps parents see the key connections that help resolve family difficulties, strengthen the parent-child relationship, and get families back on balance and moving forward together. She presents parenting workshops on a broad spectrum of topics, including managing difficult behavior in children, parenting through divorce, parenting teenagers, and communicating about sexuality. Katie is also the author of the book "How to Talk to your Teen about Anything," available online and in indie bookstores near you. Katie’s calling – and passion – is improving family lives by offering understanding, a fresh perspective and hope. Learn more about her approach, practice and workshops at ParenthoodUnderstood.com. Follow Katie @parenthoodunderstood For more education resources subscribe to: | |||
| 30 Jan 2022 | Episode 14 | Exploring Culture on a Global Level w/ Taína Benitez | 00:37:03 | |
Fun, joy and love when chopping it up with Taína Benitez from Teach With Love Global. We talked about Exploring Culture on a Global Level. We also talked about some immersive travel trip opportunities including the Egypt 2023 trip that Roberto and Lorena Germán will be leading. Taína is a Spanglish-speaking advocate, speaker and educator. A true lover of helping people, she has been an advocate for inclusivity, social justice and bringing opportunities to underprivileged teachers and students, for over two decades. While working to bring a perspective that has historically been missing in travel education, Taína founded Teach With Love in 2012. In 2019, she formed the philanthropic arm, Teach With Love, Inc a 503 (c) non-profit organization dedicated to giving opportunities and resources to underrepresented and disenfranchised teacher communities. The programs are funded through TWL’s cultural immersion trips that are a seed to having culturally informed practices. Taína, a former Instructional Coach, has worked with Ministers of Education, Visionary Edu Leaders, UN Representatives, and some of the National and Global Top Teachers around the world. Taina has spoken at over 20+ conferences giving workshops that have been featured in many media outlets, including a feature on MSNBC Latino. This episode is sponsored by Teach With Love Global. If you’re an educator who loves to travel, then join us on a trip with our friends at Teach With Love Global. They’re a woman and BIPOC owned teacher travel organization that offers stress-free teacher retreats where you can unwind with a community where you’re being understood. 100% of the proceeds go to helping underserved students travel the world. The vibe on these trips is always lingering rather than rushing where you’ll expand your cultural knowledge, gain personal breakthroughs while you travel in places like Switzerland, Peru, Spain and Egypt (where Roberto & Lorena Germán will be leading a trip in 2023!) Spots are limited, so check availability at www.teachwithlove.com. This episode is sponsored by Teach With Love Global. Follow Taína Benitez @teachwithloveglobal Browse the 2022 & 2023 Travel Trips https://www.teachwithlove.com/our-trips Donate the LOVE, spread the word, partner with TWL https://www.teachwithlove.com/get-involved For more education resources subscribe to: www.multiculturalclassroom.com | |||
| 02 Feb 2022 | Episode 15 | Centering Black Children w/ Amelia Allen | 00:28:45 | |
On this first day of Black History Month 2022, we had the privilege of hearing from Amelia Allen, founder of Sankofa Learning Center, about Centering Black Children. Amelia shared touch upon the following:
Amelia Allen Sherwood is a mother, educator, and anti-bias & anti-racist organizer. She had a vision with her eyes wide open one day and it revealed an African-Centered learning space that centered Black children. It is her hope that Sankofa Learning Center can be a high-quality early childhood program that uses Montessori pedagogy as a tool, Black Homeschooling Collective, and healing hub for the community. She currently works at Elm City Montessori School as the Anti-Bias & Anti-Racism Director on Quinnipiac land, but you may know it as New Haven, Ct. #podcasts #teacherpodcast #abar #education #educationmatters #multicultural #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #podcast #education #teachersofcolor #BlackHistoryMonth #inclusionmatters #iteachtoo #pedagogy This episode is sponsored by Teach With Love Global---an organization focused on bringing teachers, who LOVE to travel, around the world for ‘authentic culturally immersive’ travel, while also giving back to the Edu Community! For more education resources subscribe to: www.multiculturalclassroom.com | |||
| 22 Feb 2022 | Bonus | Blackness Mini Summit - Part 1 | 00:26:50 | |
In honor of Black History Month, Lorena German and Britt Hawthorne came together to talk about different aspects of Blackness. Like the last one, this mini summit featured short 20 minute conversations with guests. This bonus episode features Britt & Lorena talking about Black biracial identity, teaching about Black History Month, the difference between race, culture, and ethnicity… and more. #podcasts #teacherpodcast #abar #education #educationmatters #multicultural #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #podcast #education #teachersofcolor #BlackHistoryMonth #inclusionmatters #iteachtoo #pedagogy Follow our guest(s) @multiculturalclassroom, @britthawthorne Buy Britt Hawthorne's new book Raising Antiracist Children here. For more education resources subscribe to: www.multiculturalclassroom.com | |||
| 23 Feb 2022 | Bonus | Blackness Mini Summit - Part 2 | 00:34:33 | |
In honor of Black History Month, Lorena German and Britt Hawthorne came together to talk about different aspects of Blackness. Like the last one, this mini summit featured short 20 minute conversations with guests. This bonus episode features Britt & Roberto talking about Blackness, the diaspora, and Latinidad. #podcasts #teacherpodcast #abar #education #educationmatters #multicultural #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #podcast #education #teachersofcolor #BlackHistoryMonth #inclusionmatters #iteachtoo #pedagogy Follow our guest(s) @multiculturalclassroom, @britthawthorne Buy Britt Hawthorne's new book Raising Antiracist Children here. For more education resources subscribe to: www.multiculturalclassroom.com This episode is sponsored by Teach With Love Global. Browse the 2022 & 2023 Travel Trips https://www.teachwithlove.com/our-trips Donate the LOVE, spread the word, partner with TWL https://www.teachwithlove.com/get-involved | |||
| 24 Feb 2022 | Bonus | Blackness Mini Summit - Part 3 | 00:19:41 | |
In honor of Black History Month, Lorena German and Britt Hawthorne came together to talk about different aspects of Blackness. Like the last one, this mini summit featured short 20 minute conversations with guests. This bonus episode features Lorena & Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz talking about healing and Blackness, as well as what it should look like in schools. They talk about love- what it is and what it isn’t. #podcasts #teacherpodcast #abar #education #educationmatters #multicultural #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #podcast #education #teachersofcolor #BlackHistoryMonth #inclusionmatters #iteachtoo #pedagogy Follow our guest(s) @multiculturalclassroom, @yolie_sealeyruiz Buy Lorena German's new book Textured Teaching here. With Culturally Sustaining Practice as its foundation, Textured Teaching shares lesson design strategies that build traditional literacy skills while supporting students in developing their social justice skills at the same time. For more education resources subscribe to: www.multiculturalclassroom.com | |||
| 25 Feb 2022 | Bonus | Blackness Mini Summit - Part 4 | 00:21:03 | |
In honor of Black History Month, Lorena German and Britt Hawthorne came together to talk about different aspects of Blackness. Like the last one, this mini summit featured short 20 minute conversations with guests. This bonus episode features Lorena & Tanesha B. Forman breaking colorism all the way down. #podcasts #teacherpodcast #abar #education #educationmatters #multicultural #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #podcast #education #teachersofcolor #BlackHistoryMonth #inclusionmatters #iteachtoo #pedagogy Follow our guest(s) @multiculturalclassroom, @love.tanesha Buy Lorena German's new book Textured Teaching here. With Culturally Sustaining Practice as its foundation, Textured Teaching shares lesson design strategies that build traditional literacy skills while supporting students in developing their social justice skills at the same time. For more education resources subscribe to: www.multiculturalclassroom.com | |||
| 08 Mar 2022 | Episode 16 | Advocacy & Affirmation in Predominantly White Spaces w/ Alexis & Chanté (Let's Talk Sis) | 00:39:07 | |
After a brief hiatus, it felt great to be back in conversation with amazing people! Tonight in Our Classroom Roberto was joined by Alexis and Chanté @letstalk_sis. They discussed Advocacy & Affirmation in Predominantly White Spaces including: | |||
| 16 Mar 2022 | Episode 17 | Liberation Pedagogy w/ Dr. Gloria Rosario Wallace | 00:31:15 | |
New York City represent, represent! Dr. Gloria Rosario Wallace dished out the marvelous as we discussed Liberation Pedagogy including: Dr. Gloria Rosario Wallace (she/her) is a Black Dominicana educator-scholar-activist committed to supporting racially conscious, human-centered school and organizational leadership. In her professional and personal worlds, she aspires to center and hold space for Black women and femmes and celebrate Black joy in its many forms. Follow Dr. Rosario Wallace via Twitter @GRosarioWallace #podcasts #teachersofinstagram #teacherpodcast #abar #education #educationmatters #multicultural #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #podcast #education #teachersofinsta #teachersofcolor #inclusionmatters #iteachtoo #pedagogy #activist #scholar #NYCDOE #NYC | |||
| 25 Mar 2022 | Episode 18 | Extraordinary Latina w/ Isis Ortiz-Belton | 00:33:33 | |
It's Women's History Month and fortunately an Extraordinary Latina was the most recent guest .In this episode of Our Classroom we were joined by Isis Ortiz-Belton who is making power moves in the financial services and banking industry. We discussed Isis':
ISIS ORTIZ-BELTON is a financial services and banking professional with over 12 years of credit risk, corporate finance, and underwriting experience. She is a Vice President, Portfolio Manager at Eastern Bank where she manages a portfolio of commercial banking relationships with a broad array of middle market and security alarm companies. Prior to joining Eastern, Isis was Vice President, Portfolio Manager at Citizen’s Bank independently managing over 30 middle market client relationships in the public and private sectors. She has also held positions at Santander Bank and at John Hancock Financial Services. Her career began in the non-profit sector at ACCION International, now a pioneer in the fields of microfinance and fintech impact investing. Isis is an active community leader and diversity, equity and inclusion champion. She’s a strong advocate for the education and financial literacy of minority students and the rights of women, BIPOC and those identifying as LGBTQ+. Notably, Isis is the President for the Boston chapter of the Association of Latino Professionals for America (“ALPFA”), the first and largest Latino professional association serving over 95,000 professional and student members across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. She sits on the Board of Trustees for Phoenix Charter Academy Network and she is a member of the Lawrence Boys and Girls Club Advisory Council. Isis holds a B.A. in Mathematics and a B.A. in Business Management from Emmanuel College, a Master of Science in Finance from the New England Institute of Business at Cambridge College, and a Master of Business Administration from Bentley University. She’s a recipient of the 2014 McCallum Leadership Scholar Award, a 2018 Latinos for Education Board Fellow, a Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce 2021 Boston Future Leaders fellow, and a 2021 Leaders Engaged and Activated to Drive System-Wide Change (“LEADS”) Lawrence fellow. Most recently, Isis was recognized as a 2021 Latinx Amplifier and co-authored her first book, Extraordinary Latinas. Originally from Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Isis lives with her wife in Lawrence, MA. Follow Isis on LinkedIn or via Twitter @iceychill | |||
| 30 Mar 2022 | Episode 19 | Using Bilingual Books to Teach Self-Love & Diversity w/ Marisa Taylor | 00:25:52 | |
All the way from London, UK! Author Marisa Taylor checked into Our Classroom to discuss Using Bilingual Books to Teach Self-Love & Diversity. She touched upon: This episode is sponsored by Heinemann --- a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. Textured Teaching by author Lorena Germán is a must read book! This secondary professional learning guide will help you:
“In our fight for positive social transformation, we nurture and sustain students’ hearts through the tool of books.” Learn more and purchase Textured Teaching now at Heinemann.com #MulticulturalClassroom #OurClassroom #bilingualteachers #bilingualbooks | |||
| 13 Apr 2022 | Episode 20 | Exploring Textured Teaching w/ Lorena Germán | 00:30:16 | |
Well… I tried to keep the interview focused on Textured Teaching but your girl Lorena was wildin’ (dropped the “g” because she was out of control)! This episode is sponsored by Heinemann --- a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. Textured Teaching by author Lorena Germán is a must read book! This secondary professional learning guide will help you:
“In our fight for positive social transformation, we nurture and sustain students’ hearts through the tool of books.” Learn more and purchase Textured Teaching now at Heinemann.com For more education resources subscribe to: www.multiculturalclassroom.com | |||
| 27 Apr 2022 | Episode 21 | You Have Agency w/ Lorena Germán | 00:08:11 | |
Since y’all kept stressing me about bringing Lorena Germán back on the podcast, I found a way to do it without giving her an opportunity to turn my interview into a flirt session with me! This is the shortest episode that I have published, yet it is fruitful. This is an excerpt from her Textured Teaching presentation several months ago at the ICTE (Iowa Council of Teachers of English) Conference. In this excerpt Lorena emphasizes the fact that You Have Agency! Lorena Germán is a two time nationally awarded Dominican American educator focused on anti racist and anti bias education. She has taught English Language Arts from 6th through 12th grades in both public and private schools. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, NCTE’s journals, ASCD, and more. She’s a co-founder of #DisruptTexts through which she encourages teachers to work toward an inclusive ELA curriculum. As Co-Founder and Academic Director at Multicultural Classroom she leads professional development for teachers and creates teaching materials with and for leading literacy organizations. Lorena is also the Chair of NCTE’s Committee Against Racism and Bias in the Teaching of English. She lives in Tampa, Florida. This episode is sponsored by Heinemann --- a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. Textured Teaching by author Lorena Germán is a must read book! This secondary professional learning guide will help you:
“In our fight for positive social transformation, we nurture and sustain students’ hearts through the tool of books.” Learn more and purchase Textured Teaching now at Heinemann.com For more education resources subscribe to: www.multiculturalclassroom.com | |||
| 11 May 2022 | Episode 22 | Justice & Healing w/ Clara Mangali | 00:21:35 | |
Student voice matters! In this episode of Our Classroom, I had my first student guest, Clara Mangali. We discussed how her senior research project led to her creating a Justice & Healing virtual workshop for educators and students. Clara Mangali (she/her) is a student seeking to affect change through activism, community building, and identity development. She currently resides on the ancestral land of the Kizh people and is a senior at Chadwick School in Palos Verdes, California. After attending the National Association of Independent Schools Student Diversity Leadership Conference in 2019, she went on to serve as a co-leader of her school’s Multiracial and Asian American student associations. For the past two years, she has served as the co-chair of Chadwick’s Student Diversity Council. Recently, Clara conducted her senior research project on how schools can better support educators of color. Through her project, she hosted the virtual Justice and Healing workshop, which offered students and educators of color a space to share their stories and radically reimagine how equity work in schools can more authentically center the humanity and experiences of people of color. Outside of school, she is involved in community organizing through GABRIELA South Bay, an anti-imperialist grassroots organization that fights for the liberation of all Filipino women. Additionally, Clara recently joined the writing team at Radical in Progress, an organization that provides free study guides for must-read social justice literature. In college, Clara aspires to study sociology, education, and ethnic studies, with the ultimate goal of undertaking research that investigates the relationship between culture and trauma. In her free time, she enjoys running, tending to her army of plants, and reading tarot. To learn more about Clara follow her on IG at @Clara.mangali. Clara is also involved with GAB South Bay and they are engaged in two campaigns, the Philippine Human Rights Act and Kontra Day 2022. This episode is sponsored by Heinemann --- a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. We Got This by author Cornelius Minor is a book you must have! We Got This explores how the work of creating more equitable school spaces is embedded in our everyday choices—specifically in the choice to really listen to kids. This book addresses advocacy, Inclusivity and building bridges, while making learning relevant and accessible. “You can transform your teaching; your team can transform your school; your school can solve real community problems. If you listen.” Learn more and purchase We Got This now at Heinemann.com For more education resources subscribe to: www.multiculturalclassroom.com #podcasts #teachersofinstagram #teacherpodcast #abar #education #educationmatters #multicultural #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom #podcast #teachersofinsta #teachersofcolor #inclusionmatters #iteachtoo #pedagogy #advocacy #affirmation #socialjustice #California #Filipina #SDLC #POCC #NAIS #ChadwickSchool | |||
| 25 May 2022 | Episode 23 | EdTech and Edupreneurship w/ Thom Gibson | 00:44:25 | |
It’s great to learn and journey with others. Thom Gibson is my go-to person for all EdTech related questions. In this episode of Our Classroom, we discussed EdTech and Edupreneurship. We also touched up fatherhood and the challenge of trying to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Thom Gibson is a two-time teacher of the year educator, creative director at New EdTech Classroom, educational consultant, and an Adobe Education Leader. He has taught middle-school math, robotics, and YouTube Video Production Outside of education, he's a practitioner of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, an avid runner, a chicken wing (and ranch) connoisseur, and is actively involved in his church. He, his wife Sara, and daughter Audrey live in Austin, TX. Listen to this short episode now! Follow Thom on IG @gibsoneducation | |||
| 08 Jun 2022 | Episode 24 | Change the Narrative w/ Henry J. Turner & Kathy Lopes | 00:37:03 | |
Henry J. Turner and Kathy Lopes join Roberto to discuss their new book Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School. In addition, they share about their co-authoring process, their challenge in writing about assessments, and the content that most resonates with them. Henry J. Turner serves as principal at Newton North High School in Newton, Massachusetts. He is most proud of the collaborative community he works within to empower students to fight hate and bigotry in their school. Pointing to his unwavering commitment to equity and a student-centered culture, Henry was named 2020 K–12 Principal of the Year by the industry news site K–12 Dive. A national speaker, Henry shares his experience as an innovative instructional leader, passionate advocate, and committed antiracist. Henry works with educators, leaders, and communities on how to create a culture that commits to diversity, equity, and inclusion, empowers students’ voices, and addresses economic and racial disparities. Henry is an instructor at the Educator Leadership Institute (ELI). He serves on the University of Massachusetts Commonwealth Honors College Advisory Board and the Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association Board. He received his doctorate in education from Boston College, a master’s in education from Framingham State University, and an undergraduate degree in history from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He has a biweekly newsletter, Lessons on Social Justice Leadership. Kathy Lopes is a clinical social worker and educator with over twenty years of experience ranging throughout primary, secondary, and postsecondary education. She currently serves as the director of diversity, equity, and inclusion for Newton Public Schools in Newton, Massachusetts, leading the district’s work in their antiracist leadership practices and principles. Additionally, she holds a long-standing adjunct faculty position at her alma mater, Simmons University School of Social Work. Lopes is known as a local and national public speaker on topics of cultural humility, racial identity, and antiracism in education and mental health organizations. Recognized early in her career by the US Department of Justice with the Justice for Victims of Crime Award, social justice and equity have remained a consistent part of her leadership and strategic planning vision. Follow Henry J. Turner on IG @turner_hj Follow Kathy Lopes on Twitter @kathylopes21 For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com | |||
| 22 Jun 2022 | Episode 25 | Mathin' It Up Pt. 1 w/ Kwame Sarfo-Mensah | 00:25:41 | |
I don’t even like math like that but this was fun! 😂 My mom commented, “I wish I had a math teacher like you when I was in school!” Brother Kwame Sarfo-Mensah out here getting love from mom dukes! I guess he was a good guest to have on the show and I will have to bring him back in the future! Yes, I used all exclamation points is this caption! Check out this lively conversation where we talk about math, culturally responsive teaching, supporting educators in growing their anti bias anti racist practices and more! Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is a 15-year veteran urban educator and the founder & CEO of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC., an independent educational consulting firm that provides professional development and consulting services to K-12 school districts, educators, colleges & universities and educational non-profit organizations. He is also the author of two books: "Shaping the Teacher Identity: 8 Lessons That Will Help Define the Teacher in You" and "From Inaction to 'In Action': Creating a New Normal for Urban Educators". A proud graduate of Temple University, Kwame holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. He was honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the teacher profession. Kwame's work has also been featured on The Tavis Smiley Show, Edutopia, Education Post, Teaching Channel, WGBH News, The Educators' Room, LLC., and Medium. Follow Kwame Sarfo-Mensah-Mensah @kwam_the_identity_shaper, @radicalmathtalk and the Identity Talk Website This episode is sponsored by Heinemann --- a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. Start Here Start Now by Liz Kleinrock is a practical guide to antibias and antiracist work in schools. “There is no ‘one and done’ lesson or book when it comes to social justice and culturally reflective teaching. This book is meant to help educators break habits that are holding them back from this work, as well as build positive, sustainable teaching for the future.” Learn more and purchase Start, Here, Start Now at Heinemann.com For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com
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| 06 Jul 2022 | Episode 27 | Mathin' It Up Pt. 3 w/ Kwame Sarfo- Mensah | 00:13:16 | |
Welcome to Our Classroom! In this brief episode, Math Educator and Consultant Kwame Sarfo-Mensah wraps up our conversation about math including talking about supporting bilingual learners. Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is a 15-year veteran urban educator and the founder & CEO of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC., an independent educational consulting firm that provides professional development and consulting services to K-12 school districts, educators, colleges & universities and educational non-profit organizations. He is also the author of two books: "Shaping the Teacher Identity: 8 Lessons That Will Help Define the Teacher in You" and "From Inaction to 'In Action': Creating a New Normal for Urban Educators". A proud graduate of Temple University, Kwame holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. He was honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the teacher profession. Kwame's work has also been featured on The Tavis Smiley Show, Edutopia, Education Post, Teaching Channel, WGBH News, The Educators' Room, LLC., and Medium. Follow Kwame Sarfo-Mensah-Mensah @kwam_the_identity_shaper, @radicalmathtalk and the Identity Talk Website This episode is sponsored by Heinemann --- a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. Start Here Start Now by Liz Kleinrock is a practical guide to antibias and antiracist work in schools. “There is no ‘one and done’ lesson or book when it comes to social justice and culturally reflective teaching. This book is meant to help educators break habits that are holding them back from this work, as well as build positive, sustainable teaching for the future.” Learn more and purchase Start, Here, Start Now at Heinemann.com For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com
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| 29 Jun 2022 | Episode 26 | Mathin' It Up Pt. 2 w/ Kwame Sarfo-Mensah | 00:22:49 | |
As we proceed (P. Diddy voice) with the math strategies you need! In part 2 of Mathin' It Up w/ Kwame Sarfo-Mensah, we discuss Math & Hip Hop, creating a STEM Speaker Series, Culturally Responsive Teaching in math, standardized testing, and the difference between math in the USA and math in Western African countries. Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is a 15-year veteran urban educator and the founder & CEO of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC., an independent educational consulting firm that provides professional development and consulting services to K-12 school districts, educators, colleges & universities and educational non-profit organizations. He is also the author of two books: "Shaping the Teacher Identity: 8 Lessons That Will Help Define the Teacher in You" and "From Inaction to 'In Action': Creating a New Normal for Urban Educators". A proud graduate of Temple University, Kwame holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. He was honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the teacher profession. Kwame's work has also been featured on The Tavis Smiley Show, Edutopia, Education Post, Teaching Channel, WGBH News, The Educators' Room, LLC., and Medium. Follow Kwame Sarfo-Mensah-Mensah @kwam_the_identity_shaper, @radicalmathtalk and the Identity Talk Website This episode is sponsored by Heinemann --- a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. Start Here Start Now by Liz Kleinrock is a practical guide to antibias and antiracist work in schools. “There is no ‘one and done’ lesson or book when it comes to social justice and culturally reflective teaching. This book is meant to help educators break habits that are holding them back from this work, as well as build positive, sustainable teaching for the future.” Learn more and purchase Start, Here, Start Now at Heinemann.com For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com #matheducation #culturallyresponsiveteaching #mathteacher #teacherssupportteachers #mathteachersofinstagram #teacherauthor #teachergoals #edupreneur #education #school #educators #teaching #consulting #mathematics #teacher #multiculturalclassroom #ourclassroom #Ghana #ABAR #socialjusticeeducation | |||
| 20 Jul 2022 | Episode 28 | Quién Soy Yo (Who Am I) w/ Ummi Modeste | 00:18:44 | |
If you dig poetry then you are in for a treat! This is part one of a 3-part poetry series w/ author Ummi Modeste. In this episode, Ummi reads the poem Quien Soy Yo from her book Because I Knew. We then had the opportunity to analyze the poem and discuss ways to apply it in the classroom. R. Ummi Modeste is a native of Brooklyn, NY where she attended and graduated from the New York City Public School System. She retired from that same school system in 2021, after nearly 30 years of service as a teacher and college and career advisor at City-As-School High School, a unique public school in Manhattan. Ummi holds one bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, another from the State University of NY Empire State College in Human Relations: American Sign Language, and a Master’s degree in Special Education from Hunter College of the City of New York. Ummi is the mother of Adunni and second mom to Tarence, mom-in-law to Jean-Marie, and Grammie to Nasir and Skyler. No matter how old she gets, she’ll always be “Baby Sis” to her brothers, Leon and Keith. Ummi is an active member of the Breadloaf Teacher Network, an international group of teachers who strive to provide innovative and engaging ways for their students to become stronger readers and writers. Every summer, she is one of the facilitators of the Andover Bread Loaf Writing Workshop (ABL), a two-week professional development workshop held in Andover, MA that focuses on social justice work through literacy. ABL provides professional development for teachers and others who work with youth, as well as workshops for students in cities all over the US. ABL has also held international conferences for teachers and students in Karachi, Pakistan; Nairobi, Kenya and Port-Au-Prince, Haiti (For more information about ABL, here). A founding member of the former East Brooklyn Poets, Ummi seeks to create opportunities for herself and her friends to grow in their own creativity and share it with others. EBP performed in Brooklyn, Harlem, Lawrence and Andover, MA, and its members continue to facilitate workshops, coach other performers and work with young writers. She gives honor to the memory of fellow founding members and dear friends, Tray Jackson and Keith “Just Sayin” Richards. Upon retiring, Ummi fulfilled a long-held dream of owning a home in a quieter place, and she now happily resides in Laurel, MD, where she reads and writes every day, with the sun streaming through her kitchen window. You may connect with Ummi for speaking engagements, poetry readings and to facilitate workshops at: ummi.modeste@gmail.com or BecauseIKnewBook@gmail.com. To purchase Because I Knew, go to the online bookstore at thebookpatch.com and search “Because I Knew”. For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com #poetry #culturallyresponsiveteaching #CSP #teacherssupportteachers #culturallysustainingpedagogy #teacherauthor #teachergoals #edupreneur #education #school #educators #teaching #consulting #writing #teacher #multiculturalclassroom #ourclassroom #ABAR #socialjusticeeducation | |||
| 27 Jul 2022 | Episode 29 | Dreaming A Decolonized World w/ Ummi Modeste | 00:21:45 | |
Part Two of our poetry series with author Ummi Modeste explores immigration from a number of different angles. In this episode, Ummi reads the poem Dreaming A Decolonized World from her book Because I Knew. This is a passionate conversation that we invite you to join. Click the image above to listen to the episode now! R. Ummi Modeste is a native of Brooklyn, NY where she attended and graduated from the New York City Public School System. She retired from that same school system in 2021, after nearly 30 years of service as a teacher and college and career advisor at City-As-School High School, a unique public school in Manhattan. Ummi holds one bachelor's degree from Ithaca College in Speech, Language and Hearing Services, another from the State University of NY Empire State College in Human Relations; American Sign Language, and a Master's degree in Special Education from Hunter College of the City of New York. Ummi is an active member of the Breadloaf Teacher Network, an international group of teachers who strive to provide innovative and engaging ways for their students to become stronger readers and writers. Every summer, she is one of the facilitators of the Andover Bread Loaf Writing Workshop (ABL), a two-week professional development workshop held in Andover, MA that focuses on social justice work through literacy. ABL provides professional development for teachers and others who work with youth, as well as workshops for students in cities all over the US. ABL has also held international conferences for teachers and students in Karachi, Pakistan; Nairobi, Kenya and Port-Au-Prince, Haiti. (For more information about ABL, click here). You may connect with Ummi for speaking engagements, poetry readings and to facilitate workshops at: ummi.modeste@gmail.com. or BecauseIKnewBook@gmail.com. To purchase Because I Know, go to the bookstore at thebookpatch.com and search "Because I Knew". The Ant Racist Teacher Video Course is available now and includes a copy of The Anti Racist Teacher: Reading Instruction Workbook (E-book). In this course, you'll find:
For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com. #poetry #immigration #culturallyresponsiveteaching #teacherssupportteachers #teacherauthor #teachergoals #education #school #educators #teaching #teacher #multiculturalclassroom #ourclassroom #ABAR #socialjusticeeducation | |||
| 03 Aug 2022 | Episode 30 | Hyphenated w/ Ummi Modeste | 00:20:46 | |
In the third and final part of our poetry series with author Ummi Modeste, she shares and analyzes the poem Hyphenated from her book Because I Knew. This is one of her favorite poems as it speaks to the struggle of tracing her roots. R. Ummi Modeste is a native of Brooklyn, NY where she attended and graduated from the New York City Public School System. She retired from that same school system in 2021, after nearly 30 years of service as a teacher and college and career advisor at City-As-School High School, a unique public school in Manhattan. Ummi holds one bachelor's degree from Ithaca College in Speech, Language and Hearing Services, another from the State University of NY Empire State College in Human Relations; American Sign Language, and a Master's degree in Special Education from Hunter College of the City of New York. Ummi is an active member of the Breadloaf Teacher Network, an international group of teachers who strive to provide innovative and engaging ways for their students to become stronger readers and writers. Every summer, she is one of the facilitators of the Andover Bread Loaf Writing Workshop (ABL), a two-week professional development workshop held in Andover, MA that focuses on social justice work through literacy. ABL provides professional development for teachers and others who work with youth, as well as workshops for students in cities all over the US. ABL has also held international conferences for teachers and students in Karachi, Pakistan; Nairobi, Kenya and Port-Au-Prince, Haiti. (For more information about ABL, click here). You may connect with Ummi for speaking engagements, poetry readings and to facilitate workshops at: ummi.modeste@gmail.com. or BecauseIKnewBook@gmail.com. To purchase Because I Know, go to the bookstore at thebookpatch.com and search "Because I Knew". The Ant Racist Teacher Video Course is available now and includes a copy of The Anti Racist Teacher: Reading Instruction Workbook (E-book). In this course, you'll find:
For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com. #poetry #immigration #culturallyresponsiveteaching #teacherssupportteachers #teacherauthor #teachergoals #education #school #educators #teaching #teacher #multiculturalclassroom #ourclassroom #ABAR #socialjusticeeducation | |||
| 17 Aug 2022 | Episode 31 | Reading for Self w/ Dr. Sonja Cherry-Paul & Lorena Germán | 00:16:11 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Dr. Sonja Cherry-Paul invites Lorena Germán to join her in one of the RedClayEd Community Conversations. As we transition from summer fun and flexibility, Sonja challenges the audience to consider the following themes:
Reflection Questions
Key Takeaways
About Our Guests Dr. Sonja Cherry-Paul is the adapter of the #1 New York Times Best Seller, Stamped (For Kids). She is an educator, author, founder of Red Clay Educators, and co-founder of the Institute for Racial Equity in Literacy. She is the host of The Black Creators Series, an education-focused platform that highlights the work of Black authors and illustrators. Sonja provides professional development for schools and organizations on advancing the work of antiracism and equity. Follow Sonja @redclayed Lorena Germán is a two time nationally awarded Dominican American educator focused on anti racist and anti bias education. She has taught English Language Arts from 6th through 12th grades in both public and private schools. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, NCTE’s journals, ASCD, and more. She’s a co-founder of #DisruptTexts through which she encourages teachers to work toward an inclusive ELA curriculum. As Co-Founder and Academic Director at Multicultural Classroom she leads professional development for teachers and creates teaching materials with and for leading literacy organizations. Lorena is also the Chair of NCTE’s Committee Against Racism and Bias in the Teaching of English. She lives in Tampa, Florida. For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com. #teacherssupportteachers #teacherauthor #teachergoals #education #school #educators #teaching #teacher #multiculturalclassroom #ourclassroom #ABAR | |||
| 24 Aug 2022 | Episode 32 | Shifting POC Stories by Writing Fiction w/ Aiko Bethea | 00:33:58 | |
Aiko Bethea stopped by Our Classroom to discuss her upcoming publication, the Magnolia Murder Series. We touched upon the following: The founder of RARE Coaching & Consulting, Aiko Bethea is an award-winning and highly sought after equity consultant, executive coach, and speaker. Aiko’s newest ambition takes form in a cozy comfort series titled Magnolia Murder Mysteries, the first of which will be published in 2023. Her goal is to create work that features stories about people of color, without those stories always being steeped in trauma and despair. Aiko is leaning into research from Berkeley University that establishes that fiction enhances our social abilities, including our ability to empathize with others. Follow Aiko Betha @rare_coach For more education resources subscribe to multiculturalclassroom.com. #education #literacy #BlackAuthors #CozyComfortSeries #representationmatters
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| 07 Sep 2022 | Episode 33 | Reflections of a First Year School Principal w/ Terra Lynch | 00:34:07 | |
This week's guest was Terra Lynch, Director of Middle School at Headwaters School in Austin, Texas. We discussed the following:
Welcome to Our Classroom! Terra Lynch spent a decade teaching Humanities at University Neighborhood High School in New York City, and a decade as a consultant for the New York University Metropolitan Center for Research on Equity and the Transformation of Schools as an instructional coach. She has also lived and worked in Cairo, Egypt, and Washington, DC. In Austin, Terra led parent groups around dyslexia advocacy. She served as the Learning Specialist at Headwaters School for five years, collaborating with the middle and high school guides to meet the needs of the students, while also teaching Middle School Spanish. She is the author of the book Protocols in the Classroom: Tools to Help Students Read, Write, Think, and Collaborate. Follow @terrateacher (Twitter) and terralynch.com For more education resources subscribe to Multicultural Classroom #schoolleaders #schoolprincipals #middleschoolprincipals #schooladministrators #instateacher #teachersofig#teaching #consulting #multiculturalclassroom #ourclassroom | |||
| 21 Sep 2022 | Episode 34 | Students, Schools, People and Prisons w/ Stacy Seward | 00:34:07 | |
Welcome to Our Classroom! In this episode, Stacy Seward, Executive Director of The Dream Network in Lawrence Massachusetts, joins to discuss the school-to-prison pipeline and prison to community re-entry, including a healing-centered transformative model along with financial literacy and economic power. Focal points:
Stacy Seward holds a Masters Degree in Rehabilitation Psychology and Counseling from UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine. She has earned a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Counselor Education and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Applied Social and Community Psychology. Stacy is a mediator and certified diversity professional (CDP) whose practice centers around the social and psychological dimensions of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI). Stacy has provided equity centered technical assistance for Department of Justice grantees in programs across the nation and provides reentry guidance to organizations across the Commonwealth. Finally, Stacy is the Executive Director of The Dream Network in Lawrence Massachusetts. Her role is to use asset-based ideologies to impact racial, social, economic, educational, and environmental justice for those impacted by the carceral system. Follow: For more education resources subscribe to Multicultural Classroom. #education #schools #prison #financialliteracy #trauma #healing #transform #community #Lawrence #Massachusetts #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom | |||
| 05 Oct 2022 | Episode 35 | 4 Tips for School Leaders Starting DEI Work | 00:20:28 | |
Welcome to Season 2 of Our Classroom! In this episode, Roberto breaks down an article that he and Lorena originally published through Edutopia. The article examines the idea that school leaders should take an active role and set attainable goals to ensure that diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are successful. #education #schools #schoolleaders #DEI #diversity #equity #inclusion #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 19 Oct 2022 | Episode 36 | Where Faith & Schools Can Meet w/ Zakiya Jackson | 00:29:51 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Zakiya Jackson, President of The Expectations Project shares her insight and experience regarding where the church and public schools can meet. Key Moments:
Follow Zakiya - @expectationsproject Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 02 Nov 2022 | Episode 37 | Creating Culturally Inclusive Literacy Classrooms w/ Kamania Wynter-Hoyte, Eliza Braden, Michele Myers, Natasha Thorton | 00:38:52 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto is joined by Kamania Wynter-Hoyte, Eliza Braden, Michele Myers, and Natasha Thorton, the authors of the book Revolutionary Love, to discuss Creating Culturally Inclusive Literacy Classrooms. Revolutionary Love offers practices that affirm and celebrate students' identities, languages, and cultures to build a vibrant community of engaged, valued, and thoughtful learners. Classroom Notes
Follow the Authors - @revolutionarylovebook Purchase Revolutionary Love via Amazon. Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 16 Nov 2022 | Episode 38 | Building a Pipeline of Black Teachers | 00:16:30 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto shares an excerpt from the article To Build a Pipeline of Black Teachers, This Program Starts Recruiting in High School by Emily Tate Sullivan. The article examines the Genius, Joy and Love initiative led by Dr. Valerie Kinloch, dean of the University of Pittsburgh School of Education. Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 30 Nov 2022 | Episode 39 | Developing Antiracist, Pro-Human Students w/ Afrika Afeni Mills | 00:36:29 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, author Afrika Afeni Mills, shares insight about her book Open Windows, Open Minds: Developing Antiracist, Pro-Human Students. Classroom Notes:
Afrika Afeni Mills is an Education Consultant, Adjunct Instructor, and the author of Open Windows, Open Minds: Developing Antiracist, Pro-Human Students. She works with teachers, instructional coaches, and administrators to develop and sustain student-centered learning experiences that are diverse, inclusive, and equitable. Afrika believes that all educators can be motivated, engaged, dynamic practitioners and leaders when provided with the support needed to create student-centered, anti-bias, anti-racist, culturally responsive learning environments that inspire wonder and creativity and nurture diversity, belonging, equity, and inclusion. Follow Afrika Afeni Mills - IG: @open_windows_open_minds / Twitter: @AfeniMills Purchase Open Windows, Open Minds: Developing Antiracist, Pro-Human Students via Afrika Afeni Mills website, Corwin Publishing, or Amazon. | |||
| 14 Dec 2022 | Episode 40 | Border Stories w/ David Bowles | 00:32:29 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, author and professor David Bowles joins to discuss Border Stories. Classroom Notes:
David Bowles is an associate professor and coordinator of the English education program at the University of Texas Río Grande Valley. He is the award-winning Chicano author and translator of some thirty books, among them They Call Me Güero and My Two Border Towns. David's academic work and activism seeks to empower Latinx educators and their allies in the fight for children's literary dignity. He presently serves as vice president of the Texas Institute of Letters. Follow: IG/Twitter - @davidobowles | |||
| 28 Dec 2022 | Episode 41 | A Vulnerable Moment | 00:08:41 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto wraps up 2022 by engaging in a vulnerable moment and apologizing to any students that he may have caused harm to, even if he did so unknowingly. | |||
| 18 Jan 2023 | Episode 44 | Got Data? w/ Shane Safir | 00:26:41 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, author and professor Shane Safir joins to discuss Street Data: A Next-Generation Model for Equity, Pedagogy, and School Transformation. Classroom Notes:
Shane Safir has worked at every level of the education system, from the classroom to the boardroom, for 25 years. Since 2008, Safir has provided equity-centered leadership coaching, strategic planning, and professional learning support for schools, districts, and organizations across the U.S., Canada, and beyond. She facilitates workshops on creating brave spaces for equity, listening leadership, becoming a warm demander, and Street Data among other content. She is the author of The Listening Leader: Creating the Conditions for Equitable School Transformation (Jossey-Bass: 2017) and her most recent book, coauthored with Dr. Jamila Dugan, is titled Street Data: A Next-Generation Model for Equity, Pedagogy, and School Transformation (Corwin, 2021). Follow: IG/Twitter - @shanesafir / @shanesafir_author | |||
| 01 Feb 2023 | Episode 46 | Taco Literacy w/ Steven Alvarez | 00:33:02 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, author and professor Steven Alvarez joins to discuss Taco Literacy. Classroom Notes:
Steven Alvarez is an Associate Professor of English at St. John’s University. He specializes in literacy studies and bilingual education with a focus on Mexican immigrant communities. Dr. Alvarez teaches courses ranging from autobiographical writing, ethnographic methods, creative writing, and “taco literacy,” a course exploring the foodways of Mexican immigrants in the United States. Dr. Alvarez is the author of Brokering Tareas: Mexican Immigrant Families Translanguaging Homework Literacies (State University of New York Press) and Community Literacies en Confianza: Learning from Bilingual After-School Programs (National Council of Teachers of English). Dr. Alvarez is also the author of three books of poetry. His book The Codex Mojaodicus was the winner of the 2016 Fence Modern Poets Prize. Follow: IG/Twitter - @stevenpaulalvarez @tacoliteracy / @Chastitellez | |||
| 04 Jan 2023 | Episode 42 | Modeling Humility & Vulnerability w/ Sheldon L. Eakins, Ph.D | 00:31:54 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Sheldon L. Eakins, Ph.D, author of Leading Equity: Becoming an Advocate for All Students, joins to discuss Modeling Vulnerability & Humility. Classroom notes:
Check out this powerful conversation in which two Black men get vulnerable. It’s not something you see everyday in our society. Welcome to Our Classroom! Follow: IG/Twitter - @sheldoneakins For more education resources subscribe to Multicultural Classroom | |||
| 11 Jan 2023 | Episode 43 | Justice Through Culturally Relevant Teaching w/ Kimberly N. Parker, Ph.D | 00:30:34 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Dr. Kimberly N. Parker, author of Literacy Is Liberation: Working Toward Justice Through Culturally Relevant Teaching, discusses one of the CRTs that are driving some folks crazy. Classroom notes:
Kimberly N. Parker, PhD, has been working in literacy communities with young people for more than 20 years. She has always believed in the power of literacy to normalize the high achievement of all students, especially Black, Latinx, and other students of color. Her career has included public school teaching, preparing preservice teachers, conducting research about how to support the success of Black boy readers, and delivering professional development across the country. She is currently the director of the Crimson Summer Academy at Harvard University, the 2020 recipient of the NCTE Outstanding Elementary Educator Award, a cofounder of #DisruptTexts and #31DaysIBPOC, and the current president of the Black Educators' Alliance of MA (BEAM). Welcome to Our Classroom!
Follow: IG - @drkimparker / Twitter - @TchKimPossible Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. For more education resources subscribe to Multicultural Classroom. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 25 Jan 2023 | Episode 45 | Avoiding Equity Traps & Troupes w/ Dr. Jamila Dugan | 00:38:44 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Dr. Jamila Dugan, Co-Author of Street Data: A Next-Generation Model for Equity, Pedagogy, and School Transformation, gives us a deep dive into chapter two of her book - No Shortcuts: Avoiding Equity Traps and Troupes. Classroom Notes:
Dr. Jamila Dugan (she/her/hers) is an author, leadership coach and researcher.
Jamila has dedicated her career to making “equity” more than just a buzzword. She works with individuals and organizations across the nation to develop and support transformational leaders who care deeply about advancing diversity, equity and inclusion.
Follow: IG/Twitter - @jamiladugan Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 08 Feb 2023 | Episode 47 | Collaborating to Learn w/ Dr. Towanda Harris | 00:39:59 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Dr. Towanda Harris, author of The Right Tools: A Guide for Selecting, Evaluating and Implementing Classroom Resources and Practices, joins me to discuss the idea of Collaborating to Learn. Classroom Notes
Welcome to Our Classroom! Dr. Towanda Harris has been a teacher, staff developer, literacy content specialist, instructional leadership coordinator, and instructional coach. Currently an adjunct professor of reading and writing at Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia, she brings over twenty years of experience to the education world. Towanda is the author of The Right Tools: A Guide to Selecting, Evaluating, and Implementing Classroom Resources and Practices. Educators rely on her wisdom about finding resources that meet their teaching goals and match their understanding of their students’ needs. Dr. Harris’ workshops have been featured at the Wisconsin State Reading Association Conference, National Reading Recovery Conference, Indiana State Reading Conference, and National Council of Teachers of English. Teachers turn to her to learn how to employ those resources, blend them with best practices, and help all students reach their full potential. Her passion for elevating teachers’ voices through her podcast, “My Two Cents,” provides a space for a community of educators to share their personal stories with each other. In addition, Towanda is a board member of Elevate Atlanta, a member of The Educator Collaborative, and an advisor for the #G2Great Twitter chat. Follow:
Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 15 Feb 2023 | Episode 48 | Working Together for Equitable Schools w/ Tina Starks | 00:42:49 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Tina Starks, an educational designer for Student Achievement Partners, joins me to discuss Working Together for Equitable Schools.
Classroom Notes
1. The true problem in our educational system 2. Three action steps we can take to transmute our pain into purpose 3. Powerful Frederick Douglas quotes
Welcome to Our Classroom!
An educational designer for Student Achievement Partners, Tina Starks brings 18 years of experience as an educator to create resources and develop professional learning opportunities centered around liberating and humanizing learning experiences for students. Tina’s work is rooted in the belief that historically and systemically marginalized students deserve to have their intellect nurtured, their layered identities valued, and their learning linked to the ways they navigate the world. Her writing has been featured in various publications including Rethinking Schools, Citizen Ed, and Ed Post,
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| 22 Feb 2023 | Episode 49 | Removing the Stigma w/ JD Fuller | 00:37:35 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, JD Fuller, a therapist in private practice, adjunct professor & school counselor, as well as a consultant & trainer, joins me to discuss removing the stigma of mental health in the global majority.
Classroom Notes 1. Origins & present barriers related to mental health stigma amongst People of the Global Majority 2. Disparities in mental health treatment 3. 3 actions steps we can take now to help destigmatize mental health among people of the global majority Welcome to Our Classroom!
J. Denise Fuller is an African American LCSW who has over 25 years of experience as a mental health clinician, educator, writer, and consultant. JD earned a Master of Social Work from the renowned Smith College School of Social Work. She is an Adjunct Professor, an abolitionist and a “truth teller”. JD is an advocate for equity, inclusion, and speaks out against inequality. She is passionate about changing the narrative. JD is sought after to provide training and consultation throughout the country on ways to navigate the difficult conversations related to systemic, internalized racism, White privilege, and the tenets of oppression. She focuses on intersectionality as it relates to the identities we possess through a mental health lens. JD is esteemed for her insight, authenticity, unique perceptive, and ability to empower, while providing education. JD is a firm believer that one’s truth lives in the body and the lived experience guides the process of how we integrate new information. The youngest of nine children, JD experienced how myopic teaching distorted her understanding of American history. JD’s curiosity led her to ultimately reject what she learned and to find the truth which culminated in her graduate thesis on The Racial Identity Development of the African American Female. These realizations catalyzed for JD a lifetime of experiential learning and commitment to teaching about and advocating for others. Over the course of her extensive and wide-ranging career, JD's experiences have informed her professional practice. Follow:
Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 01 Mar 2023 | Episode 50 | Exploring Language Identity and Power with Poetry w/ Carla España, Ph.D y Luz Yadira Herrera, Ph,D | 00:43:17 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Carla España, Ph.D and Luz Yadira Herrera, Ph.D join me in Exploring Language, Identity, and Power with Poetry. Classroom Notes 1. The poetry in their book cover 2. Poets, poems and text sets they would add to their list in Chp 6 3. Reading & discussion of my poem Café Con Leche Welcome to Our Classroom! Carla España, Ph.D. is a middle-grade language arts teacher, literacy consultant, researcher, author, and co-founder of the En Comunidad Collective. Her love of stories and teaching comes from her roots in Chile and has been nurtured by hundreds of teachers and students across schools in New York City and beyond. She has a BS in communication studies from New York University, an M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary, an MA in childhood education with a bilingual extension from Hunter College (City University of New York), and a Ph.D. in urban education from the Graduate Center (City University of New York). Dr. España’s teaching journey began in Harlem, New York with bilingual sixth graders and continues in her role as a middle grade language arts teacher and dean. Her teaching, research, coaching, and writing live at the intersection of critical literacies, children’s literature, and bilingual education. Dr. España is co-author of En Comunidad: Lessons for Centering the Voices and Experiences of Bilingual Latinx Students with Dr. Luz Yadira Herrera. Find her on Twitter @ProfesoraEspana. Luz Yadira Herrera, Ph.D. is a teacher, researcher, author, and co-founder of the En Comunidad Collective. Dr. Herrera has over sixteen years of experience in the education of emergent bilinguals in both mainstream and bilingual settings. She started her teaching career in New York City public schools, teaching emergent bilinguals in K-6 in Harlem. In addition, she taught undergraduate and graduate courses at the City College of New York, Long Island University, and Brooklyn College. She is currently an Assistant Professor of Bilingual Education in the School of Education at California State University, Channel Islands. Dr. Herrera's teaching and research are in culturally and linguistically sustaining pedagogy, translanguaging, critical pedagogies, and bilingual education policy. She is the co-author of En Comunidad: Lessons for Centering the Voices and Experiences of Bilingual Latinx Students with Dr. Carla España. Find her on Twitter @Dra_LuzYadira. Follow:
Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 08 Mar 2023 | Episode 51 | Body Literacy w/ Cait O'Connor | 00:32:39 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Cait O’Connor, a middle school language arts teacher and mental/disability health advocate, breaks down body literacy. Classroom Notes 1. Defining body literacy 2. Common assumptions that reinforce body shaming 3. 3 tips for educators to help promote body literacy and positivity Welcome to Our Classroom! Cait O’Connor is a middle school language arts, mental health and disability advocate, and fiercely pro-student. Cait is the founder of The #DitchingDietCultureAtSchool digital library, a collection of curated resources for teachers, students and communities looking to learn more about how to dismantle diet culture and thin-centered ideals. Follow:
Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 15 Mar 2023 | Episode 52 | Liberatory Coaching w/ Lauren Vargas & Rashaida Melvin | 00:30:56 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Lauren Vargas and Rashaida Melvin, introduce the framework of Liberatory Coaching. Classroom Notes 1. Definition of Liberatory Coaching 2. 6 Liberatory Practices 3. Coaching for Relationships, Not Compliance Welcome to Our Classroom! Lauren Vargas is an educator whose work focuses on coaching, leadership, and systems that promote the liberation and thriving of all students. She is the Director of Instructional Leadership at a neighborhood high school in the School District of Philadelphia, as well as a consultant, artist and mom. She writes the blog Coaching to Disrupt the Status Quo which provides coaching resources, ideas and stories to equip coaches and leaders in their work of disrupting the status quo of schooling so all students can thrive. Check out her blog, and artwork, at lauren-vargas.com. Rashaida Melvin is an educational leader and entrepreneur who focuses on creating tools, curriculum, and systems for coaching on the topics of leadership, strategy, and program implementation rooted in equitable practices. She currently serves as the National Program Director at BUILD.org, an education entrepreneurship organization. Rashaida has experience as a school leader, instructional coach, and teacher in both urban and rural communities. Together, Rashaida and Lauren have coached hundreds of teachers, coaches and leaders from all across the country, as well as co-lead a team of over fifty virtual instructional coaches through the Covid-19 pandemic. They have written articles, an instructional framework, and are currently drafting their book Liberatory Coaching: Disrupting the Status Quo of School to Promote Thriving for All and are looking for the best publisher home for their work. Follow: LinkedIn: @Lauren Vargas / lauren-vargas.com, @Rashaida Melvin Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch
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| 22 Mar 2023 | Episode 53 | ABAR in STEM w/ Liz Kleinrock | 00:21:43 | |
STEM in not my strength. As a result, I periodically reach out to those in my network that know more than me. Liz Kleinrock popped in to discuss ABAR in STEM.
Classroom Notes:
Welcome to Our Classroom!
Liz Kleinrock (she/her) is a Korean-American transracial adoptee, queer, Jewish, antibias and antiracist educator of both children and adults, and creates curriculum for K-12 students, specializing in designing inquiry based units of study. In addition to her work as a classroom teacher, Liz also works with schools and companies to facilitate learning for adults that supports antibias and antiracist practices. In 2018, Liz received the Teaching Tolerance Award for Excellence in Teaching, and in 2019 delivered her TED Talk, “How to teach kids to talk about taboo topics." In the spring of 2021, Liz released her first book, Start Here, Start Now: A Guide to Antibias and Antiracist Work in Your School Community with Heinemann Publishing, and is excited to announce the publication of four upcoming children's books with HarperCollins. She currently teaches and resides in Washington DC with her partner and two bunnies. Follow: Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 29 Mar 2023 | Episode 54 | Discussing Dyslexia w/ Annie Phan | 00:28:04 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Annie Phan joins me to discuss dyslexia and other learning differences. Classroom Notes 1. Experience serving students w/ dyslexia and other learning differences 2. Strategies & support for students w/ dyslexia 3. Keys factors that can be implemented to better serves students Welcome to Our Classroom! Annie Phan (she/they) is a writer, facilitator, and educator. She was raised among the cottonwoods of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and now raises good trouble in the San Francisco Bay Area. She taught health education and humanities classes in San Francisco public schools and now works as the Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at a school for students with dyslexia and related learning differences. Annie is also a student in the Doctor of Education program at Santa Clara University in the Social Justice Leadership program. Follow: IG/Twitter - @msphanlearns LinkedIn - Annie Phan | |||
| 05 Apr 2023 | Episode 55 | Latina/o Prosperity w/ Sergio C. Muñoz | 00:32:58 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Sergio C. Muñoz joins me to Latina/o Prosperity. In addition, he shares his educational journey including the challenges he experienced growing up in Southern California in the 80s, particularly as it relates to lack of Mexican representation in literature. Classroom Notes 1. The changing face of America and Latina/o prosperity 2. To be financially free or not to be? 3. The way capitalism shows up in our communities Welcome to Our Classroom! Sergio C. Muñoz is a Mexican banker living in Floral Park, CA. He is the owner of Intelatin, LLC. His work has been published on PBS and in ReVista, the Harvard Review of Latin America, Studio 360 and México ¿Cómo Vamos? He can be reached at smunoz(@)intelatin(dot)com. Follow: Twitter - @Intelatin LinkedIn - Sergio C. Muñoz | |||
| 12 Apr 2023 | Episode 56 | Transgressive Humor w/ David Low | 00:36:07 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, David Low joins to discuss Transgressive Humor in Classrooms.
Classroom Notes 1. Transgressive humor as a critical literacy practice
2. Examples of how teachers can support students in using humor as ways to address critical topics
3. Comedians that use humor well to address critical topics
Welcome to Our Classroom!
David E. Low (he/him; @DLow_Literacy) is an Associate Professor of Literacy Education at California State University, Fresno. His research examines how children and youth critically theorize race, gender, power, and identity using multimodal literacy practices. In particular, David explores students' use of humor and the comics medium as vehicles to critique dominant discourses and rewrite them. If there is a single through-line to David’s work, it is a deep and abiding interest in liminality and change, and what happens within the in-between spaces of radical possibility.
Follow: Twitter - @DLow_Literacy Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 19 Apr 2023 | Episode 57 | Literary Device Mixtapes w/ Abby Ramos Stanutz | 00:24:57 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Abby Ramos Stanutz joins to discuss Literary Device Mixtapes. Classroom Notes 1. Defining literary device mixtapes 2. The things about this lesson that excite students 3. Ways to teach this lesson even amidst censorship in certain states Welcome to Our Classroom! Abby Ramos Stanutz is a middle school Language Arts teacher with 16 years of experience in Title 1 schools across Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. She is focused on inspiring students and teachers with engaging and inclusive lessons that bring out the natural gifts of each student in the classroom. Follow: TTiktok: @abbyramosstanutz Twitter: @iammissramos Instagram: @mrsramosstanutz Website: abbyramosstanutz.com TPT: Reading with Ramos Email: abbyramosstanutz@gmail.com Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 26 Apr 2023 | Episode 58 | Everything I Learned About Racism I Learned in Schools w/ Tiffany Jewell | 00:31:19 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Tiffany Jewell joins to discuss her upcoming book Everything I Learned About Racism I Learned in Schools. In part 1 of this conversation, Tiffany provides an update on the book and then shares some of her experiences with racism when she was in grade school. Classroom Notes
Tiffany Jewell is the Black biracial #1 New York Times bestselling and #1 Indie bestselling author of This Book Is Anti-Racist and The Antiracist Kid. She is a twin sister, first-generation American, cisgender mama, and anti-bias antiracist (ABAR) educator who has been working with children and families for two decades. She lives on the homeland of the Pocumtuc and the Nipmuck with her two young storytellers, husband, a turtle she’s had since she was nine years old, and a small dog with a big personality. Welcome to Our Classroom! Follow: IG - @tiffanymjewell Twitter - @tiffanymjewell Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 03 May 2023 | Episode 59 | Magnet Schools w/ Tiffany Jewelll | 00:29:47 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Tiffany Jewell returns to discuss magnet schools, a topic she addresses in her upcoming book Everything I Learned About Racism I Learned in Schools. Classroom Notes
Tiffany Jewell is the Black biracial #1 New York Times bestselling and #1 Indie bestselling author of This Book Is Anti-Racist and The Antiracist Kid. She is a twin sister, first-generation American, cisgender mama, and anti-bias antiracist (ABAR) educator who has been working with children and families for two decades. She lives on the homeland of the Pocumtuc and the Nipmuck with her two young storytellers, husband, a turtle she’s had since she was nine years old, and a small dog with a big personality. Welcome to Our Classroom! Follow: IG - @tiffanymjewell Twitter - @tiffanymjewell Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch
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| 10 May 2023 | Episode 60 | From Tupac to QPOC w/ Annie Tornabene | 00:38:39 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom we go From Tupac to QPOC w/ Annie Tornabene as she offers some practical strategies to grapple with shifting racial categories as a “Questioning Person of Color”. Different voice, different content, same energy. Classroom Notes
Annie Tornabene, MEd, owns and provides educational therapy services at AMP Educational Therapy LLC in Southern California. She has previously served as the Director of Student Support, Middle School Learning Specialist, and DEI Coordinator at a K-12 independent school in California. Recently, Annie joined the beloved ed tech company, BrainPOP, helping school districts across the U.S. provide rich online learning experiences to students and teachers. She holds a BA in Psychology from Princeton University, a Certificate in Educational Therapy from UC Riverside, and a Masters in Education from the University of San Diego. Annie has presented at national conferences on topics related to racial/ethnic identity and neurodiversity. Welcome to Our Classroom! Follow:
Don't be late to class! Subscribe to Our Classroom today. Resources - Books & Curriculum / Blog / Merch | |||
| 17 May 2023 | Episode 61 | Control Freaks w/ Jan "J.E." Thomas | 00:43:57 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom Jan “J.E.” Thomas joins me to discuss her forthcoming book Control Freaks. Classroom Notes
Jan "J.E." Thomas is the author of CONTROL FREAKS, a debut middle grade novel that will be published by Levine Querido on June 13. CONTROL FREAKS recently received a starred review from Booklist in which it was compared to Newbery Medal–winning author E.L. Konigsburg's novel, THE VIEW FROM SATURDAY. Jan has bachelor of arts degrees in mass communications and political science and a master of arts degree in public communications. She started writing full-time in 2021. Prior to that, she had a long career in corporate, health care and education communications. She was also an award-winning freelance journalist, earning a Clarion Award for Article Writing from Women in Communications; a Gold Award for Feature Writing from the International Academy of Communications Arts & Sciences; a Silver Award for Writing from the Society of National Association Publications; and a Public Relations Professional of the Year Honor from the Colorado Association of Black Journalists, among others. She is the product of an urban Catholic elementary school and an independent high school. She concluded her communications career by serving as communications director and a member of the administrative team for the same independent school she attended years before. Her debut novel is dedicated to three women who changed her life by recognizing her potential and encouraging her to step out of the crowd. Those women are, Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek's original Uhura; Helen Yeager, Jan's ninth grade English teacher; and Laura Pegram, founder and executive director of Kweli Journal and the Kweli Color of Children's Literature Conference in New York. Welcome to Our Classroom! Follow: For more education resources subscribe to Multicultural Classroom #education #schools #students #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom | |||
| 31 May 2023 | Episode 62 | Raising Activists w/ Kassie Infante & Dr. Marianela Rivera | 00:34:34 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom Kassie Infante and Dr. Marianela Rivera of the HomePlace Collective join me to discuss Raising Activists. Classroom Notes
Dr. Marianela Rivera and Kassie Infante, MEd, co-founders of HomePlace Collective, are Lawrence MA-based scholar-activists, community organizers, and former elected school committee members. They both believe in the power of activism as a tool for social change and a mindset for developing hope. Dr. Rivera is a physical therapist and has focused the majority of her career on serving students receiving special education services. Her experiences while working for Lawrence Public Schools revealed systemic issues impacting her students and their families, which motivated her to run and win a last-minute write-in campaign for the Lawrence School Committee in 2015. Ms. Infante earned her B.S from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and has extensive experience working in the non- profit, educational development/philanthropy and political advocacy field. Her studies and interest lie in advancing progressive education policy, community organizing and critical participatory action research as methods to disrupt and dismantle systemic racism. Welcome to Our Classroom! Follow: For more education resources subscribe to Multicultural Classroom #education #schools #students #OurClassroom #MulticulturalClassroom | |||
| 12 Jul 2023 | Episode 63 | Emotional Dysregulation w/ Kareem Farah | 00:35:50 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom Kareem Farah of the Modern Classrooms Project joins me to discuss Emotional Dysregulation. Classroom Notes
Kareem Farah spent his teaching career as a high school math educator in Hawaii and Washington, DC. He earned his undergraduate degree from Washington University in St. Louis and later received a master’s degree in secondary education at Johns Hopkins University. Instead of using a traditional lecture model, Kareem taught mathematics through a blended model where students accessed content through his self-made videos. The cornerstone of his classroom was the ability for students to work through the content at their own pace and Kareem’s ability to employ mastery-based grading to evaluate student learning. In 2018, Kareem received the DC Public Schools Award for Classroom Innovation and was featured in Edutopia and CBS News for his work. In an effort to scale his classroom model, Kareem co-founded a nonprofit, Modern Classrooms Project. As the CEO of the Modern Classrooms Project, Kareem and his team train and support teachers who seek to redesign their classrooms around blended, self-paced, mastery-based learning to better meet all students’ unique needs. Kareem tweets regularly about education at @KareemFarah23. Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 26 Jul 2023 | Episode 64 | What's Going on in Florida w/ Lorena Germán | 00:23:43 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom Lorena German joins me to discuss Florida's Black History Curriculum. Classroom Notes
Lorena Germán is a two time nationally awarded Dominican American educator focused on anti racist and anti bias education. She has taught English Language Arts from 6th through 12th grades in both public and private schools. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, NCTE’s journals, ASCD, and more. She’s a co-founder of #DisruptTexts through which she encourages teachers to work toward an inclusive ELA curriculum. As Co-Founder and Academic Director at Multicultural Classroom she leads professional development for teachers and creates teaching materials with and for leading literacy organizations. Lorena is also the Chair of NCTE’s Committee Against Racism and Bias in the Teaching of English. She lives in Tampa, Florida. Welcome to Our Classroom! #teacherssupportteachers #teacherauthor #teachergoals #education #school #educators #teaching #teacher #multiculturalclassroom #ourclassroom #ABAR | |||
| 09 Aug 2023 | Episode 65 | What's Going on in Florida Pt. 2 w/ Lorena Germán | 00:29:49 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom we continue to reflect on the fascinating developments in Florida that are greatly impacting education. Classroom Notes
My Classroom is a community of Multicultural Classroom's people, educators, friends, and followers. Whatever you call yourself... you're welcome! Together, in this space, we can be ourselves; meaning we can share, learn, grow, make mistakes, and build. Teaching for Black Lives in Florida Are you a Florida teacher who wants to resist the politics and still teach truth for empowerment through love? Are you ready to take the risk of learning in community in spite of the people seeking to knock us down? Come through. Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 23 Aug 2023 | Episode 66 | Educate & Bake w/ Jenny Suriel | 00:35:09 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Jenny Suriel, educator and owner of Amor y Azucar Bakery, drops by to discuss her road to becoming an educator, the inception of her bakery business, and her experiences with restorative justice. Classroom Notes
Welcome to Our Classroom! Follow: IG - @_amoryazucar | |||
| 06 Sep 2023 | Episode 67 | Three Ways Parents Can Help Prepare Their Children for College | 00:24:08 | |
Supporting college readiness for high school students is essential for their future success. Here are three ways parents can help prepare their children for college:
Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 20 Sep 2023 | Episode 68 | Baby Bonds - Creating Community Capital to Dismantle Wealth Disparities | 01:03:03 | |
In this episode, we'll be joined by esteemed guests, including Dr. William Sandy Darity, a leading expert on wealth inequality, Alejandra Montoya Boyer, the Director of Policy at Prosperity Now, Sergio C. Muñoz, a Mexican banker with a passion for broadcasting, and Abigail Golden VaZquez, a senior fellow at Prosperity Now who has been driving awareness of Latino contributions to the American economy. Together, we'll explore the concept of baby bonds as a means to address wealth disparities, particularly within marginalized communities. We'll discuss the potential impact of these bonds and how they can be used to create a more equitable society. We'll also delve into the current initiatives being proposed, such as the American Opportunity Accounts Act, which has gained traction with Senator Cory Booker and aims to provide newborns with trust accounts calibrated to their family's net worth. Join us as we unravel the complexities of wealth inequality and learn how targeted policies like baby bonds can be a stepping stone towards a fairer and more inclusive future. So, grab your earphones and get ready for another thought-provoking episode of the Multicultural Classroom! | |||
| 04 Oct 2023 | Episode 69 | Growing Up in the Jim Crow Era w/ Martha Bireda, Ph.D | 00:51:03 | |
In this episode, we are honored to have Martha Bireda, Ph.D., sharing her experiences of growing up during the Jim Crow era. In this episode, Martha highlights the importance of not seeing oneself as a victim, even in the face of adversity, and explores the complex concept of reparations beyond just financial compensation. She takes us on a journey back to her childhood, where segregation was not openly discussed, but the division between white and African American communities was palpable. Martha shares stories from her hometown of Punta Gorda and the vibrant African American cities of that time. Education is a recurring theme in our conversation, as Martha discusses the power it holds in both empowering and disempowering individuals. She also reflects on her own experiences of racial identity and the importance of maintaining one's authentic self in a society that often imposes expectations. Join us as we delve deeper into these powerful stories and insights, and together, explore the impact of the Jim Crow era on our understanding of identity, education, and community. Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 18 Oct 2023 | Episode 70 | From Bullying to Empowerment w/ St. Clair Detrick-Jules & Analíz German | 00:21:15 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom we are joined by St. Clair Detrick-Jules, author of My Hair is Like the Sun. We unpack the inspiration behind the title of the book and how St. Clair's Afro-Caribbean background shaped her perspective on Black hair and its connection to the beauty of nature. We also delve into St. Clair's journey in advocacy work, particularly in immigrant justice and Black liberation, and how storytelling plays a crucial role in humanizing marginalized communities. Co-host Analiz Germán, making her debut as a co-host, asks insightful questions about the book, the selection process for the featured children, and what St. Clair loves most about her own book. So, join us in this enlightening conversation as we explore the power of representation, self-love, and the joy that emanates from embracing our unique hair and heritage. Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 01 Nov 2023 | Episode 71 | Black Hair Liberation and Empowerment w/ St. Clair Detrick-Jules | 00:28:56 | |
In this week's episode, we are thrilled to have St. Clair Detrick-Jules, award-winning Afro-Caribbean filmmaker and photographer, back with us. Join us as we dive into her impactful book, "My Beautiful Black Hair 101 Natural Hair stories from the Sisterhood." St. Clair shares the inspiration behind her book, which emerged from her desire to uplift her sister Chloe, who faced bullying due to her Afro hair. However, as her project progressed, St. Clair recognized that the importance of representation and self-acceptance in natural hair extended far beyond her sister's experience. She passionately highlights the stories of Black and Afro-Dominican women who have overcome adversity, societal pressures, and discrimination, showcasing the beauty and strength of embracing their natural hair. We explore the significance of including diverse perspectives in this conversation. St. Clair emphasizes that the power of empathy and understanding lies in engaging with stories that might not directly affect us. Hair, she believes, is a universal theme that connects us all, transcending race, gender, and nationality. By encouraging dialogue and fostering a sense of self-love and confidence, we can create a more inclusive and accepting world for everyone. Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 15 Nov 2023 | Episode 72 | Anti-Bias Literacy Instruction w/ Tricia Ebarvia | 00:33:28 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto is joined by distinguished guest Tricia Ebarvia. An experienced high school English teacher, Tricia is also the co-founder of #DisruptTexts and author of the masterpiece, "Get Free: Anti-Bias Literacy Instruction for Stronger Readers, Writers, and Thinkers." The interview explores this groundbreaking book that aims to liberate from socialization forms that perpetuate oppression. They discuss her intentional choice of artwork reflecting her cultural and ethnic experiences and our personal battles with language and cultural identity. A co-founder of #DisruptTexts, Tricia Ebarvia advocates for literacy instruction rooted in equity and liberation through critical literacy. Tricia taught high school English for 20 years and is currently the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at an independent school in Philadelphia. She is the co-founder of the Institute for Racial Equity in Literacy (IREL), a National Writing Project educator, and the author of Get Free: Anti-Bias Literacy Instruction for Stronger Readers, Writers, and Thinkers (Corwin). Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 29 Nov 2023 | Episode 73 | Unpacking and Healing w/ Tiffany Rose | 00:52:18 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto is joined by Tiffany Rose, the author of the powerful book ‘Pack Light.’ This episode journeys through Tiffany's biracial experiences, her battles with marginalization and identity, and the resilience she's found through storytelling. Tiffany's literary work is a raw and authentic exploration of heavy topics that are masterfully unpacked, allowing us, the readers, to find ourselves in a lighter place. Her book, inspired by song lyrics and packed with poems, prose, and untold stories, is a testament to her strength, character and the invaluable role her mother and grandmother played in shaping her identity. Tiffany Rose's motivation and courage to share her abuse experience through her writing is bold and inspiring. Throughout this interview, Tiffany and Roberto delve deep into discussing the challenges of writing about personal experiences, and how confronting their painful pasts fosters creativity and authentic self-expression. Listen as Tiffany reads an emotionally charged poem from her book, and reflects upon her close connection to the legendary Josephine Baker. Don't miss her insights on dismantling shame, finding beauty in connection with our younger selves, and utilizing the power of narratives as tools for healing and transformation. Tiffany rose is a storyteller, mother, and radical imaginer. She loves elephants and ‘90s reruns and believes the key to life is to trust yourself, find your people, and believe in magic. And that justice, snacks, and falling in love with as many things as possible are of equal importance. She’s online at rosewithwords.com or on the apps @rosewithwords (but she’s really only ever on Instagram). You can also find her in a library sniffing books or taking long walks under trees near water. Join us on this enlightening journey, celebrating the power of storytelling and embracing all aspects of our identities. Let's learn, grow, and heal together in Our Classroom. | |||
| 13 Dec 2023 | Episode 74 | About Bruce’s Beach: Restorative Justice Through Reparations w/ George C. Fatheree III & Sergio C. Muñoz | 00:38:38 | |
In today's show, we're diving deep into a painful piece of California history and the remarkable story of triumph that's emerged a century later. Our special guest is none other than George C. Fatheree III, a Harvard-educated attorney, Fintech Founder, and social impact entrepreneur who played a crucial role in correcting an age-old wrong against the Bruce family of Manhattan Beach. In the 1920s, Willa and Charles Bruce, a visionary black couple, had their beachfront property unceremoniously stripped from them through the dubious use of eminent domain. Their successful business was uprooted not because of development but because of their race, leading to a near wipeout of the Black community in this area. This isn't just a story of loss though—it's one of resilience, courage, and the power of community advocacy. Join Roberto and guest co-host Sergio C. Muñoz, a Mexican Banker and Founder of Intelatin, as George takes us through the emotional journey, the legal battles, and the moral victories associated with the return of Bruce's Beach. We also explore the broader implications of this case for Black America, reflecting on the significance of narrative busting and the work still to be done to address racial wealth gaps and systemic racism. Stay with us as we unpack the threads of this deeply human story, and perhaps, find your role in making a change. Welcome to Our Classroom! | |||
| 27 Dec 2023 | Episode 75 | Teaching Black History in K-3 w/ Dawnavyn James | 00:29:27 | |
In this enlightening episode titled "Teaching Black History in K-3," we're joined by the inspiring Dawnavyn James, an educator who brings Black history to the youngest of learners through song, storytelling, and critical thinking. Dawnavyn is not just a teacher; she's an innovator in the realm of education, admired for her holistic approach and her belief in the transformative power of knowledge. Together, we'll explore Dawnavyn's creative strategies, such as using the song "Wade in the Water" to teach sight words along with the history of Harriet Tubman. We'll discuss why figures like Malcolm X resonate with the youth for their 'swag' and powerful ideas, and why Dawnavyn's mantra—"read for yourself and seek knowledge from various sources"—is so important for fostering critical thinking. Also, we'll talk about Dawnavyn James's book, "Beyond February," a practical guide for educators looking to weave Black history into their daily curriculum and ensure it resonates with children all year long. Dawnavyn will share expert advice on using literature to introduce diverse historical figures, making space for counter stories, and aligning the Black history curriculum with educational standards. I'll share my excitement about applying Dawnavyn's methods with my own children and how important it is to engage with different cultures. We both agree that Black history is not just for Black students and should be shared by all. We'll link Black history to present-day events, challenging our young ones to engage in critical conversations that matter. Remember to follow Dawnavyn on Instagram at @queendomteaching and pick up her valuable resource "Beyond February" on routledge.com and Amazon. As always, we invite you to interact with the episode—leave a review, snap a photo, and share with us the impact it has on your thinking or your household. Stay tuned for a conversation that not only educates but liberates, as we reaffirm our commitment to making Black history a vibrant, essential part of every classroom. | |||
| 03 Jan 2024 | Episode 76 | Literacy for All w/ Shawna Coppola | 00:37:27 | |
In this thought-provoking conversation, we are joined by the remarkable Shawna Coppola, the author of "Literacy for All: A Framework for Anti-Oppressive Teaching". Shawna is a seasoned expert in the field of child and adolescent literacy, ready to challenge our conventional understanding of literacy practices. Shawna will take us on a journey beyond the confining norms of the current literacy discourse, which is too often limited to white mainstream perspectives, to uncover the vast dimensions of literacy that include non-written texts and are deeply influenced by social and cultural contexts. As our discussion unfolds, Shawna will shed light on the perils of overlooking the diversity of language and literacy practices—emphasizing how standardized tests like Dibbles can inequitably impact students who speak in dialects such as Black English. We'll delve into the necessity of implementing anti-oppressive literacy frameworks that truly reflect the varying student populations within our schools. Join us as we explore with Shawna the powerful intersection of literacy and identity, sharing personal anecdotes and illuminating the real-life repercussions of data that doesn't capture the intricacies of our students' skills and experiences. Plus, we'll hear Shawna's own educational journey and the ongoing learning that shapes her work, along with an invitation to connect and learn more about her new book, "Literacy for All." You’re in for a session full of insight, so prepare to be inspired and challenged as we discuss how to move towards a more inclusive, supportive, and comprehensive literacy education. Grab your notebooks, listeners, it's time to turn the page to a new chapter in egalitarian education. Welcome to Our Classroom!
Shawna Coppola, M. Ed. Reading, is an expert in child and adolescent literacy, including practices that support a diverse range of writing and writers. An educator for over twenty years, Shawna has worked as a middle school language arts teacher, a children’s librarian, and a K-6 literacy specialist/coach. In addition to working with students, Shawna has led courses and workshops for K-12 educators through the University of New Hampshire’s NH Literacy Institutes as well as their Professional Development and Training program and has spoken at a variety of local, regional, and national conferences. | |||
| 10 Jan 2024 | Episode 77 | Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations w/ Nawal Qarooni | 00:31:40 | |
In this episode titled "Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations", we tackle the discomfort that might arise when engaging with people of different languages, and Nawal emphasizes the critical need to dispel biases that might hinder the open channels of communication between families and educators. Together, we'll explore strategies to bridge the divisive gap between a child's home and the classroom environment. Are you a new teacher struggling to navigate unfamiliar cultural terrains? Or perhaps you're a parent trying to overcome a negative schooling experience? Today’s dialogue is dedicated to you. Nawal will guide us through the challenges of forging genuine caregiver collaborations. She redefines engagement not as a one-off transaction but as a continuous collaborative journey. We'll delve into how caregivers can weave love and inquiry into their child’s everyday learning and the importance of co-troubleshooting alongside them. And Nawal isn’t just helping us verbalize these connections; she's provided a blueprint in her book "Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations: Elevating Home Experiences and Classroom Practices for Collective Care." It's a profound call to action for anyone invested in a child’s success, both in and out of the classroom. So, grab your notebook and a coffee, and settle in for a heartening conversation that might just redefine the way you think about communication, collaboration, and the beautiful imperfection inherent in educating our young learners.
Nawal Qarooni is a Jersey-City based educator and writer who supports a holistic approach to literacy instruction education spaces across the country. Drawing on her work as an inquiry-based leader and as a mother, Nawal’s pedagogy is centered in the rich and authentic learning all families gift their children every day. She is the author of Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations: Elevating Home Experiences and Classroom Practices for Collective Care, available now. She also serves on the Library of Congress Literacy Awards Advisory Board, which funds powerful literacy programming in the world. You can learn more about her work at NQCLiteracy.org and follow her on Instagram at @nqarooni or on X at @NQCliteracy. | |||
| 17 Jan 2024 | Episode 78 | Conquering Test Anxiety w/ Wallace Panlilio II, Ph.D & Artyom Zinchenko, PhD | 00:41:57 | |
In this episode, titled "Conquering Test Anxiety," we have two extraordinary guests joining us. First up is Dr. Wallace Panlilio II, an educational psychologist, headmaster of 14 years, and chief mentor officer who has witnessed firsthand the benefits of moving away from traditional testing methods in favor of project-based assessments. Alongside him is cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Artyom Zinchenko, whose expertise enriches our conversation on the need for a profound understanding of material and providing strategies to ease the test-taking jitters, particularly for our female students. As someone who's struggled with test-taking himself, Roberto will be teasing out insights on how technology — from online assessments to remote learning — is playing a dual role in shaping student anxiety. Dr. Panlilio delves into the advantages of tech familiarity, balanced against the downside of technical issues and excessive screen time. Meanwhile, Dr. Zinchenko sheds light on the power of preparation, and we'll discuss his and Dr. Panlilio’s collaborative work on the book "Wisest Learners," which embraces a holistic approach to raising lifelong learners. We'll explore how every stakeholder in education can contribute to a comprehensive understanding and mitigation of test anxiety. And, we'll hear our guests' heartfelt desire to have meaningful conversations with figures from their past and present, which echo our theme of making a genuine impact on the lives of others. Grab your headphones, find a comfy chair, and join us or an episode packed with strategies, personal insights, and valuable resources aimed at transforming the educational experience. Welcome to Our Classroom!
Dr. Wallace Panlilio II, Ph.D., is an experienced educator and entrepreneur. He holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from the University of the Philippines and has served as a school headmaster for 14 years. He also holds two master's degrees in entrepreneurship and educational leadership and has studied economics and political science at the undergraduate level. Dr. Wallace is currently the Chief Mentor Officer of Digital Ventures Pte. Ltd., an AI solutions and publishing company. He also played a pivotal role in co-founding several pioneering educational institutions that have provided education to tens of thousands of students over the last decade. Artyom Zinchenko, PhD, is an accomplished author and cognitive neuroscientist with extensive experience in the field. He earned his Doctorate in Cognitive Neuroscience from the Max Planck Institute for Cognitive Human and Brain Sciences in Leipzig, where his research focused on emotions and cognitive conflict processing. Dr. Zinchenko is now a researcher and faculty member at Ludwig-Maximilian University in Munich, where his research interests include cognition-emotion interaction and long-term memory guided attention during visual search. He uses various neurophysiological methods to support his research, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, electroencephalography, skin-conductance, eye-tracking, and combined EEG-fMRI methodology. | |||
| 24 Jan 2024 | Episode 79 | Black Literacies w/ Patriann Smith | 00:26:55 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, host Roberto Germán engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Patriann Smith, an esteemed scholar and educator specializing in language, literacy, and exceptional education. The focus of their discussion is Dr. Smith's groundbreaking book, "Black Immigrant Literacies: Intersections of Race, Language, and Culture in the Classroom." Throughout the episode, Dr. Smith eloquently explains the concept of Black immigrant literacies and how they differ from traditional understandings of literacy. She also unpacks the five significant elements of the Black immigrant literacies framework and provides practical strategies for educators to better support Black immigrant students in the classroom. This illuminating conversation challenges us to rethink our perspectives on literacy and provides valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and the general public. Join us as we delve into the multifaceted world of literacy and education with Dr. Patriann Smith.
Dr. Patriann Smith is a distinguished scholar and educator, specializing in language and literacy.. She holds a position at the University of South Florida and her extensive academic journey includes a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction, with a concentration in Literacy Studies, and an MEd in Reading Education. She also holds a BSc in Elementary Education and an A.A. in Elementary Teacher Training. With a diverse career, she has served as a faculty member at various prestigious institutions, including the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of South Florida. Her research focuses on the intersection of race, language, and immigration, with an emphasis on transculturally, transracially, and translinguistically responsive literacy and assessment practices. Dr. Smith's dedication to diversity and equity is evident through her leadership roles, numerous awards, and active involvement in academic organizations. Her work is characterized by a commitment to creating positive change and advancing equity in education. She is the author of the book, “Black Immigrant Literacies: Intersections of Race, Language, and Culture in the Classroom” (2023). and Affirming Black Students’ Lives and Literacies: Bearing Witness” (2022). | |||
| 31 Jan 2024 | Episode 80 | Social Emotional Learning Inspired by Hip Hop w/ David Spellmon | 00:28:57 | |
In this episode, our host Roberto is joined by David Spellmon Jr., a behavior specialist who is making an impact in Charlotte, North Carolina by incorporating Hip Hop Pedagogy to promote social and emotional learning. David is the author of "Just Like Music: Social Emotional Learning Inspired by Hip Hop," and in this conversation, he shares the importance of affirmations, the integration of Hip Hop and social emotional learning, and the impact of his book's lesson plans on students and educators. From exploring the connections between Hip Hop and SEL to discussing the potential benefits of such integration, this insightful conversation provides a fresh perspective on education and student engagement. So, grab your notepads and get ready to be inspired by the powerful influence of Hip Hop on social and emotional learning in Our Classroom. Follow: IG - @mrjappi Website - David Spellmon Jr. | |||
| 07 Feb 2024 | Episode 81 | Navigating Disability and Dreams w/ Natalia Sylvester | 00:37:45 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, we have the privilege of welcoming the award-winning author Natalia Sylvester, whose poignant novel "Breathe and Count Back from Ten" gives voice to Veronica, a young girl with hip dysplasia whose dream is to swim freely as a mermaid in Mermaid Cove. In an episode we’ve aptly titled “Navigating Disability and Dreams,” we'll explore the powerful themes of independence, courage, and the human spirit. Drawing parallels with my own life, we'll delve into the complexities of parenting, as seen through Vero's experience with her protective immigrant parents. As an author who isn't afraid to confront the struggles of disability, empathetic storytelling, and the search for self despite the fractures of immigrant life, Natalia will share how her characters can help shape our understanding and foster much-needed discussions about mental health, chronic pain, and self-advocacy. Together, we'll dive into the symbolism and language of the novel, uncover how students are engaging with its content, and see how Natalia’s personal journey intertwines with Veronica's, teaching us all to see ourselves as beautifully whole. So, get ready for an episode that swims against the current of conventional narratives. Here's to learning and embracing the multiple layers of our existence, one story at a time.
Natalia Sylvester is the Pura Belpré- and Schneider Family-honor winning author of the young adult novel Breathe and Count Back from Ten, and the award-winning author of the young adult novel Running and the adult novels Everyone Knows You Go Home and Chasing the Sun. Born in Lima, Peru, she grew up in Miami, Central Florida, and South Texas, and received her BFA from the University of Miami. Her first picture book A Maleta Full of Treasures, illustrated by Juana Medina, will be out in 2024 from Penguin Random House. Follow: @nataliasylvester
This episode is sponsored by Stenhouse Publishers Stenhouse Publishers amplifies educators’ voices through professional books written “by teachers, for teachers.” Check out one of our hot-off-the-press books like Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations by Nawal Qarooni. This book is rooted in the simple truth that we can’t separate knowing our students from knowing their homes, communities, and the people they love. Qarooni’s toolkit expands our understanding of literacy, embraces the strength of difference, and empowers students to share in decision-making. Use code STEN24 for 20% off the Routledge website through April 26th, 2024. | |||
| 14 Feb 2024 | Episode 82 | Nurturing Creativity and Community Relations w/ Robert Liu-Trujillo | 00:28:48 | |
In today's episode, host Roberto Germán sits down with guest Robert Liu-Trujillo, author and illustrator of the captivating picture book "Fresh Juice." They delve into the inspiration behind the book, the importance of diversity in children's literature, and the significance of familial relationships. The conversation also touches on the representation of fathers of color in children's books and the benefits of community support. Join us as we unravel the storytelling and artistic process behind "Fresh Juice" and discover how it resonates with readers of all ages. Robert Liu-Trujillo is the author-illustrator of Furqan's First Flat Top and the illustrator of many picture books, including Alejandria Fights Back. When he was a kid, his dad made fresh wheatgrass juice and his stepfather juiced fruits and vegetables. Now as a husband and father, Robert makes fresh juice for his family. He lives in Oakland, California, with his wife and two kids. Visit him online at work.robdontstop.com
Stenhouse Publishers amplifies educators’ voices through professional books written “by teachers, for teachers,” like Teaching for Racial Equity: Becoming Interrupters. This award- winning book on systemic inequity in schools presents clear and accessible research allowing educators to move from reflection to interruption. Authors Tonya B. Perry, Steven Zemelman, and Katy Smith share strategies for examining internal biases and facilitating transformative conversations. Use code STEN24 for 20% off the Routledge website through April 26th. | |||
| 21 Feb 2024 | Episode 83 | Enhancing Learning through Art and Poems w/ Anna J. Small Roseboro | 00:43:02 | |
In this episode, Anna J. Small Roseboro shares her fascinating work, "Experience, Poems and Pictures: Poetry that Paints, Pictures that Speak," that has captured international acclaim for its innovative blend of poetry, artwork, and insightful prompts. This book is not just a collection; it's a powerful tool for classroom engagement, inviting students to explore, reflect, and create. We'll uncover the importance of acknowledging the medium and size of artworks in educational settings, and how this respect for the creative process builds a foundation for meaningful collaboration. Anna emphasizes how technology can enhance these collaborative efforts, allowing students to work together seamlessly and learn from diverse perspectives. We'll take a journey through Anna's experiences as she discusses the inspiration behind her writing, including anchor texts and personal narratives. She'll share classroom activities that save teachers time while providing students with autonomy and the joy of choice. "Enhancing Learning through Art and Poems" takes a closer look at the intersection of education, poetry, and visual arts, revealing how this combination can address various learning objectives across different subjects. Anna's Christian perspective shines through, advocating for inclusivity and expressing personal beliefs within a supportive learning environment. Join us in "Our Classroom" as we explore the depth and richness of learning through the eyes of a poet, educator, and visionary. Let's inspire and be inspired, together.
Anna J. Small Roseboro, a wife, mother, and a National Board-Certified Teacher, has over four decades of experience in public, and private schools and colleges, mentoring early career educators, and facilitating leadership institutes, in five states. She has served as director of summer programs and chair of her English department, published eight textbooks based on these experiences, and was awarded Distinguished Service Awards by the California Association of Teachers of English and the National Council of Teachers of English. Her poetry appears in several issues of FINE LINES: An Anthology of Poetry and Prose (2015-2023); was in her own publication EXPERIENCE POEMS AND PICTURES: Poetry that Paints/Pictures that Speak (2019). Her new textbook PLANNING WITH PURPOSE: A Handbook for New College Teachers published by Rowman and Littlefield (2021) and EMPOWERING LEARNERS: Teaching Different Genres to Diverse Student Bodies is due out this Fall. She is also working with a team of OPEN WRITE members to publish a textbook for using poetry writing as an assessment tool in content areas across the curricula.
This episode is sponsored by Stenhouse Publishers. What should conversations about race look and sound like in the elementary classroom? And how can we build classroom communities that encourage these meaningful conversations? In We’re Gonna Keep on Talking, high-school teacher and author of Not Light, But Fire Matthew Kay joins forces with elementary school teacher Jennifer Orr to answer these questions. This is a book for teachers of young children who believe that meaningful conversations about race are just as foundational as literacy and numeracy learning. Stenhouse publishes books “by teachers, for teachers.” Use code STEN24 for 20% off the Routledge website through April 26th. | |||
| 28 Feb 2024 | Episode 84 | Building Equity in Education w/ Witnie A. Martinez | 00:38:19 | |
In this episode, we tackle the essentials of in-kind donations for schools, the pivotal role of organized parent groups, and the innovative strategies needed to uplift Title 1 schools and their parent-teacher organizations. We'll explore the pressures that small nonprofits, especially those led by people of color, endure in securing funding and the quest for equity in nonprofit funding. Witnie and I will discuss the need for funders to trust in these organizations without onerous strings attached and how these challenges affect the mission at their core. Our conversation will touch on the importance of sustainability within growing nonprofits and Witnie's insights on strategic operational evaluation. Plus, don't miss out on understanding how collaboration with local communities can lead to successful fundraising events focused on equity. Witnie A. Martinez is the Founder & CEO of Absolute Impact Consulting—a social impact advisory firm that helps nonprofits maximize their impact through expert consultation and professional development opportunities led by industry experts. Witnie thrives at the intersection of education, philanthropy, and leadership. This episode is sponsored by Stenhouse Publishers. Stenhouse Publishers amplifies educators’ voices through professional books written “by teachers, for teachers.” Check out one of our hot-off-the-press books like the bestselling Beyond February by Dawnavyn James. This practical guide invites elementary educators to teach Black History in truthful and meaningful ways that help young students understand the past, the present, and the world around them. With sample lessons, book collections, and an FAQ section, James gives you the tools to move beyond February and teach Black history all year long. Use code STEN24 for 20% off the Routledge website through April 26th. | |||
| 06 Mar 2024 | Episode 85 | Poetry, Prose, and Chronic Illness Narratives w/ Jasminne Mendez | 00:39:58 | |
In today’s episode, we dive deep into Jasminne Mendez's celebrated novel "Aniana Del Mar Jumps In," which has received the prestigious 2024 Pura Belpre Honor Award. Together, we'll navigate the powerful currents of her narrative, where poetry meets prose to explore the pressing themes of chronic illness, cultural identity, and the transformative symbolism of water. Jasminne, with her personal connection to these narratives, will share her insights on the connections between her characters and her own life experiences, including her Dominican roots and her journey living with an autoimmune disease. We'll discuss the often underrepresented struggles of women of color in literature, particularly the experience of young Latina women who find solace and strength in swimming. Jasminne will also take us behind the scenes of her character development, particularly the nuances of Dominican masculinity and familial dynamics that resonate throughout her work. Plus, we'll unravel her emotional connection to poetry, and her transition from poet to novelist. To wrap things up, we'll hear about Jasminne's literary inspirations, her advice for aspiring writers, and where you can follow her work online. So, settle in as we turn the page into the powerful story of Aniana and the rich tapestry of experiences that define Jasminne Mendez's craft.
Jasminne Mendez is a best-selling Dominican-American poet, translator, playwright, audio book narrator and award winning author of several books for children and adults. Including the middle grade novel in verse Aniana del Mar Jumps In (Dial) which received the 2024 Pura Belpre Honor Award. Her other books have received prizes from the Texas Institute of Letters, the Writer’s League of Texas and the International Latino Book Awards. She is an MFA graduate of the creative writing program at the Rainier Writing Workshop at Pacific Lutheran University and a University of Houston alumni. She is the Program Director for the literary arts non-profit Tintero Projects and she lives and works in Houston, TX. Social Media: IG/Twitter @jasminnemendez Website: www.jasminnemendez.com | |||
| 13 Mar 2024 | Episode 86 | Hair, Bias, and the Quest for Black Joy in Education w/ Lorena Germán | 00:35:32 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto and Lorena Germán explore the pressing issues of conformity and resistance in education. They shared powerful insights on how discriminatory policies in schools, particularly around hair and appearance, reflect deeper systemic racism. With personal anecdotes and fiery passion, they advocate for inclusive policy-making, transparency, and collective action to combat injustices. They unpack the notion of flexibility, one of the pillars of "Textured Teaching". They also highlight the significance of cases like Darryl George's fight against hair discrimination in Texas. It's a discussion that shakes the core of educational conformity and champions the celebration of individual identity and Black joy. Welcome to Our Classroom!
This episode is sponsored by Lee and Low Books. Lee & Low Books is the largest and most trusted multicultural children’s book publisher in the US. A family-run, independent, and certified 100% Minority Owned Business Enterprise, Lee & Low produces high-quality books about everyone, for everyone, along with free educator resources to make meaningful use of each book in today's classroom. Email quotes@leeandlow.com today to start building a custom collection tailored to your unique needs, goals, and budget. | |||
| 20 Mar 2024 | Episode 87 | Should Students Have Cell Phones in Class? | 00:24:04 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto explores the hot topic of banning cell phones in schools. Drawing from his experience as a former school principal, he presents both sides of the argument and delves into the reasons behind the recent decision in Indiana to prohibit communication devices in classrooms. Germán touches on the potential impact of excessive screen time on student engagement, behavior, and mental health, all while emphasizing the need for balance. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to critically analyze the role of devices in educational settings and ponder how this shift may affect students' social interactions. The discussion dives into the potential benefits and challenges of implementing such a ban. Welcome to Our Classroom!
Appleton, A. (2023). Should students have cell phones in class? Indiana just said no -- with few expections. Chalkbeat Indiana
This episode is sponsored by Lee and Low Books. Lee & Low Books is the largest and most trusted multicultural children’s book publisher in the US. A family-run, independent, and certified 100% Minority Owned Business Enterprise, Lee & Low produces high-quality books about everyone, for everyone, along with free educator resources to make meaningful use of each book in today's classroom. Email quotes@leeandlow.com today to start building a custom collection tailored to your unique needs, goals, and budget. | |||
| 27 Mar 2024 | Episode 88 | Telling the Whole Story w/ Lorena Germán | 00:20:08 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto and Lorena Germán discuss the workshop "Telling the Whole Story: Best Practices Using Data," which aims to challenge the way data is used in schools. Lorena explains the problematic nature of standardized testing and its impact on teachers' evaluations and students' graduation. The conversation delves into the need to humanize data and provides practical steps to shift perspectives. Lorena offers 3 data-driven approaches in education that aim to create a more inclusive and celebratory learning environment. Telling the Whole Story: A Workshop for Best Practices Using Data (registration link) March 30th, 2024 11pm ET / 10am CT / 9am MT / 8am PT
This episode is sponsored by Lee and Low Books. Lee & Low Books is the largest and most trusted multicultural children’s book publisher in the US. A family-run, independent, and certified 100% Minority Owned Business Enterprise, Lee & Low produces high-quality books about everyone, for everyone, along with free educator resources to make meaningful use of each book in today's classroom. Email quotes@leeandlow.com today to start building a custom collection tailored to your unique needs, goals, and budget. | |||
| 03 Apr 2024 | Episode 89 | What is the White Gaze? w/ Lorena Germán | 00:20:41 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto and Lorena delve into the concept of the White gaze and its impact. Lorena provides a comprehensive discussion on Toni Morrison's concept of the White gaze, which essentially sets a standard that assumes the audience is White, marginalizing lives that don't align with this perspective. The conversation touches upon how this impacts literature, politics, workplace policies, and societal beliefs. Included in this discussion are practical steps to identify and challenge the White gaze, emphasizing the importance of ongoing work to dismantle biases and view people through a fair and educated lens. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the White gaze and how to navigate its complexities.
This episode is sponsored by Lee and Low Books. Lee & Low Books is the largest and most trusted multicultural children’s book publisher in the US. A family-run, independent, and certified 100% Minority Owned Business Enterprise, Lee & Low produces high-quality books about everyone, for everyone, along with free educator resources to make meaningful use of each book in today's classroom. Email quotes@leeandlow.com today to start building a custom collection tailored to your unique needs, goals, and budget. | |||
| 11 Apr 2024 | Episode 90 | A Lesson on the N-Word w/ Lorena Germán | 00:21:58 | |
Today’s episode ventures into a highly sensitive and challenging discussion. Roberto and Lorena Germán tackle the complex and controversial topic surrounding the N-word, particularly within an educational framework. The conversation orbits around the indispensable role teachers play in addressing this term when it surfaces in literature, such as in the classic "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" or other significant works. Amidst the intricate balance of promoting respect and understanding in a classroom setting, they delve into the implications of love, respect, and academic seriousness while approaching such heavy conversations. Throughout the episode, Lorena imparts the significance of groundwork and context when broaching the N-word, unpacking the etymology and societal connotations that come with it. Roberto emphasizes the necessity of incorporating a multitude of perspectives and voices to enrich the narrative, highlighting the responsibility educators carry regardless of the demographics they teach. They also address the critical aspect of student engagement and the power of individual reflection. As they navigate the dissonance between intention and impact, and the casual vs. harmful use of the N-word in today's society, the Germáns invite educators and listeners alike to ponder, learn, and grow alongside their students through these hard, yet crucial, conversations. Tune in for an honest, deep, and necessary lesson on one of the most complex lexicons in American history, right here in Our Classroom. Original blog post - A Lesson on the N-Word
This episode is sponsored by Lee and Low Books. Lee & Low Books is the largest and most trusted multicultural children’s book publisher in the US. A family-run, independent, and certified 100% Minority Owned Business Enterprise, Lee & Low produces high-quality books about everyone, for everyone, along with free educator resources to make meaningful use of each book in today's classroom. Email quotes@leeandlow.com today to start building a custom collection tailored to your unique needs, goals, and budget. | |||
| 17 Apr 2024 | Episode 91 | Teaching Socio-Political Context w/ Lorena Germán | 00:20:21 | |
In today's episode, we grapple with the intricate subject of Teaching Socio-Political Context in education. Lorena helps unravel the significance of incorporating the socio-political backdrop into learning and how it enriches the understanding of texts and concepts within the classroom. We'll explore why it's essential to go beyond the author's bio and publication dates to truly comprehend a book's impact in different times and settings. Lorena will shed light on how teaching socio-political context is not just an academic exercise, but a crucial tool for deep learning that fosters critical thinking, social awareness, and emotional intelligence within students. Additionally, we touch upon why the work of teaching socio-political context doesn't have to mean promoting partisanship or political ideologies, but instead, it's about equipping young minds with the understanding of human conditions and societal structures. And, as always, we'll be supplying you with valuable resources to deepen your understanding and practice of these concepts in the classroom.
This episode is sponsored by Lee and Low Books. Lee & Low Books is the largest and most trusted multicultural children’s book publisher in the US. A family-run, independent, and certified 100% Minority Owned Business Enterprise, Lee & Low produces high-quality books about everyone, for everyone, along with free educator resources to make meaningful use of each book in today's classroom. Email quotes@leeandlow.com today to start building a custom collection tailored to your unique needs, goals, and budget. Original Blog Post - Teaching Socio-Political Context Resources - Textured Teaching Being the Change Literacy is Liberation En Comunidad | |||
| 24 Apr 2024 | Episode 92 | Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy w/ Lorena Germán | 00:19:17 | |
In this episode, titled "Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy," Lorena Germán is back to unpack the rich and necessary concept of CSP, as formulated by Dr. Django Paris and Dr. Samy Alim. We'll explore what it means to move beyond culturally relevant teaching to a model that not only acknowledges but also actively supports the cultural and linguistic diversity of students. Together, we will discuss practical ways to apply CSP in the classroom, strategies to support educators in this journey, and how schools can institutionalize these practices to ensure lasting and meaningful change. We're standing on business—taking an unwavering stance in advocating for an education that supports positive social transformation and continuous student empowerment. Welcome to Our Classroom!
This episode is sponsored by Lee and Low Books. Lee & Low Books is the largest and most trusted multicultural children’s book publisher in the US. A family-run, independent, and certified 100% Minority Owned Business Enterprise, Lee & Low produces high-quality books about everyone, for everyone, along with free educator resources to make meaningful use of each book in today's classroom. Email quotes@leeandlow.com today to start building a custom collection tailored to your unique needs, goals, and budget. Resources - Textured Teaching Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy | |||
| 01 May 2024 | Episode 93 | Multilingual Speakers in the U.S. w/ Lorena Germán | 00:30:39 | |
In this episode of Our Classroom we're diving into a critical conversation about multilingual speakers in the U.S. education system. Lorena is back as a guest. We explore the complex landscape of bilingual education, the civil rights associated with language learning, and the contentious issue of standardized testing. Together, we will unpack our personal struggles with standardized tests, despite successful educational paths, and question the fairness and effectiveness of such tests, especially for newcomers and multilingual learners. We'll also look at alternative assessment models—from other countries like Finland—that might provide more equitable educational outcomes. So, stay with us as we discuss the necessity for a diversified approach to education in a society where language proficiency deeply influences learning experiences and personal growth.
This episode is sponsored by Lee and Low Books. Lee & Low Books is the largest and most trusted multicultural children’s book publisher in the US. A family-run, independent, and certified 100% Minority Owned Business Enterprise, Lee & Low produces high-quality books about everyone, for everyone, along with free educator resources to make meaningful use of each book in today's classroom. Email quotes@leeandlow.com today to start building a custom collection tailored to your unique needs, goals, and budget. Original Post - Multilingual Speakers in the U.S. | |||
| 08 May 2024 | Episode 94 | Multilingual Speakers in the U.S. Pt. 2 w/ Lorena Germán | 00:16:56 | |
Today, we delve deeper into the experiences and challenges faced by multilingual speakers in the U.S., specifically focusing on students of color. Returning guest, Lorena Germán, joins host Roberto to explore the systemic undervaluing of these students within our current education system. They examine a range of dynamic strategies that schools and districts can apply to better support, celebrate, and sustain bilingualism and the mother tongues of students. From having multilingual signs and resources to engaging proactive community inclusivity, this discussion will shed light on practical measures to transform educational environments. Join as they build on these insights and consider how educators and administrators can effectively embrace linguistic diversity, drawing from both theory and lived experiences. Original Post - Multilingual Speakers in the U.S. Resources - Textured Teaching En Comunidad | |||
| 16 May 2024 | Episode 95 | Multilingual Speakers in the U.S. Pt. 3 w/ Lorena Germán | 00:18:50 | |
This is the third and final installment of our series on Multilingual Speakers in the U.S. In today’s episode, we dive deep into the significance of humanizing approaches to bilingual education and how these methods help cultivate a respectful and dignified learning environment for students and their families. We also explore the crucial role of community and family engagement in supporting students of color on their language learning journeys. We share personal experiences, practical strategies, and insights to help educators foster meaningful partnerships both inside and outside the classroom. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges, encourages, and inspires educators to create inclusive and effective learning spaces. Welcome to Our Classroom!
Original Post - Multilingual Speakers in the U.S. Resources - Textured Teaching En Comunidad Community Literacies en Confianza | |||
| 22 May 2024 | Episode 96 | Inspiring Change w/ Traci Huahn | 00:25:49 | |
Today we're honored to have Traci Huahn join us. Traci, a former attorney and daughter of Chinese immigrants, has recently transitioned into the world of children's literature with her debut picture book, Mamie Tape Fights to go to School. This captivating story, based on true events, delves into the fight against racial discrimination and school segregation, rooted deeply in Asian American culture and history. In this episode, we explore Traci's journey from law to literature, the meticulous research behind her book, and the significant message of incremental progress in the fight for equality. We discuss the challenges of tackling serious topics in children's literature, especially amidst today's climate of book bans. We also examine how her book can be a valuable resource in educational settings to prompt critical discussions about race, immigration, and the power of young changemakers. Stay tuned to hear about Traci's fascinating research process, her personal connection to Mamie Tape's story, and her hopes for inspiring future generations with her work. Follow: IG/Twitter @tracihuahn | |||