TL;DR: Begin the year by designing multi-ethnic units and teach them year round, not only during Black History month. Build a more inclusive and diverse literature classroom to develop a greater appreciation for it. Take time to locate literature that reveals the joy and beauty of the Black experience in this country and abroad and not only share stories about … Read More
The Standards of Our Schools
TL;DR: The curriculum should be the product of our process and not the driver of it. Our students are the standards of our schools. We cannot begin to write a curriculum if we do not first know how to take care of those that it will impact the most. If you have been in education for more than 5 minutes, … Read More
Black History Is American History
TL;DR: We need to push for the continued recognition and celebration of Black contributions to culture, science, history, math, the arts, and more. Black history is American history; we need to move along Bloom’s taxonomy from “identify” to “create,” and do more than just recognize systemic racism. Reframe your mindset from being “called out” to being “called in.” View this … Read More
Reaching Marginalized Students in Title I Schools
TL;DR: Being well-versed in trauma-informed practices is essential when working with marginalized students. Reach marginalized students by embracing a shift in school culture and reflecting on why previous ideas fell flat. Enlist faculty to assist you. And realize that lasting changes will occur if you and your staff have the willingness to do what it takes. Much focus has been … Read More
Why I Became a Teacher
TL;DR: A teacher can easily have either a positive or negative influence on learners. Choose your words and actions wisely. As an educator, our superpower is to shape and mold today’s learners so they can be valuable members of society. When I was in grade school, I had some amazing teachers. I remember one time where one teacher, Ms. Inman, … Read More