Afleveringen
-
In latest episode of Our Classroom, we delve into the complexities of forced exile and authoritarianism with our special guest, Amanda Quintero Aguerrevere. Amanda, a Venezuelan national living in exile, shares her profound insights and personal experiences, highlighting the human impact of political upheaval. As an economist, writer, and international business strategist, Amanda channels her expertise into storytelling with her book, We Said Farewell. Through fictionalized stories based on real events, she uncovers the deep personal and societal wounds inflicted by authoritarian rule. Join us as we discuss the intricacies of forced migration and political persecution, drawing lessons from Venezuela's ongoing crisis and exploring how educators can foster critical thinking and civic engagement in today's politically polarized world. Whether you are an educator or simply curious about the global forces shaping our society, this episode is sure to deepen your understanding and ignite meaningful discussions.
-
In this episode of Our Classroom, the talented authors and educators Rebecca Bellingham and Veronica Scott join to dive into the transformative power of art in the classroom as they explore how creativity serves as a pathway to identity and belonging. Their new book, "The Artful Approach to Exploring Identity and Fostering Belonging," acts as a guiding light for educators eager to integrate art into the curriculum to help students meaningfully explore their identities.
Rebecca and Veronica share practical strategies for weaving picture books, poetry, and pop culture into educational practices. They also tackle the challenging yet vital task of teaching honest history and navigating cultural pushback in schools. With an emphasis on self-reflection and the transformative potential of artful moments, this episode offers both inspiration and actionable insights for educators dedicated to creating inclusive, equitable classroom environments. Join us as we uncover the artful approach to nurturing belonging and understanding in the ever-evolving landscape of education.
-
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
In this episode, we're joined by distinguished guests Dr. Jacquelynne Boivin and Dr. Kevin McGowan, both esteemed educators from Bridgewater State University. Together, we'll explore the nuanced subject of privilege and how it intersects with race and equity in predominantly white classrooms.
We'll address the discomfort and resistance often encountered when discussing race, and how to navigate these challenging yet necessary conversations. Dr. Boivin and Dr. McGowan provide insights from their book, offering tangible strategies for educators to integrate anti-racist perspectives across all subjects, not just those traditionally associated with social studies. We'll also discuss how educators can find their allies and build supportive communities to sustain these efforts, even amidst pushback.
So, settle in and open your mind as we engage in a candid and thoughtful conversation about making education a truly inclusive and equitable experience for all students. Let's unpack privilege together, right here, in Our Classroom.
Social Media:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-mcgowan-ph-d-b0ba1732/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelynne-boivin-ph-d-9874a7126/
https://www.instagram.com/jacquelynneboivin/
Also on Facebook. Join the group “White teacher, white students” for the book’s readership community.
-
Today's episode of Our Classroom dives into the ever-evolving intersection of technology and mindfulness with a special focus on the digital age. We welcome Michael Davis, founder of Mindfulbytes IO, to shed light on how mindfulness strategies can transform digital education.
Michael, a seasoned cybersecurity expert and TEDx speaker, emphasizes the importance of developing healthy, mindful relationships with technology, especially for young learners. His groundbreaking K-5 curriculum focuses on digital well-being, mindfulness, and cyber ethics. During this episode, we explore practical ways educators can use mindfulness to combat cyberbullying and enhance student engagement.
The conversation also covers innovative practices like the role reversal exercise at Montessori One Academy. This approach fosters digital empathy by encouraging students to view digital interactions from different perspectives. Michael shares valuable insights on how parents and educators can shift from a fear-based approach to technology towards fostering digital happiness and responsibility among young learners.
Tune in to discover small steps teachers can take to integrate cyber ethics into their classrooms and help students navigate screen time thoughtfully. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or simply curious about creating a more balanced digital life, this episode offers practical strategies and inspiration to help you and your community thrive in our digital world.
Social Media: Linkedin - Michael Davis
-
In today's episode of Our Classroom, we're delving into the poignant and necessary conversation about sustaining cultural and disability identities in literacy with esteemed guests Dr. Amy Tondreau, an assistant professor of literacy at the University of Maryland, and Dr. Laurie Rabinowitz, an assistant professor of education studies at Skidmore College. Dr. Tondreau and Dr. Rabinowitz bring a wealth of knowledge to the table, exploring the integration of culturally sustaining pedagogy and disability sustaining pedagogy with balanced literacy frameworks to foster inclusive classrooms. They emphasize the importance of mindset shifts for educators, offering practical strategies and inspiring examples of inclusive practices in action. Tune in to learn how we can engage with critical, intersectional pedagogies that honor the multifaceted identities of students, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued in the literacy landscape.
Social Media
IG - @sustainingdisabilityidentities
BlueSky - @amytondreau.bsky.social
-
In this episode of Our Classroom, we are joined by Jerry Kolber, an Emmy-nominated co-creator of National Geographic's hit series Brain Games. Known for his exceptional contributions to the edutainment realm, Jerry's journey showcases a unique blend of entertainment and education. With ventures like Brainchild on Netflix and the globally popular podcast Who Smarted, accumulating over 15 million downloads, Jerry Kolber has consistently pushed the boundaries of educational content for kids. This episode explores the significance of engaging learning experiences, the challenges of balancing screen time for young ones, and the role of curiosity in a tech-driven world. Tune in to delve into the future of education, the transformative power of fun and interactive learning, and how creativity and curiosity can inspire the next generation to tackle global challenges. Join the conversation and discover how Jerry's work is reshaping the landscape of learning for educators, parents, and children alike.
Social Media:
Atomic Entertainment
Linkedin - Jerry Kolber
-
In this episode of Our Classroom, we are joined by Brian Jordan. Known for his remarkable career as a two-sport professional athlete with the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Falcons, Brian has since transitioned into a passionate advocate for youth literacy. His journey from the sports field to the world of children's literature is deeply rooted in his own experiences with reading challenges and the influence of a supportive upbringing. The discussion includes Brian's dedication to motivating young people to embrace literacy through his foundation and the innovative Reading Challenge program. Tune in to discover how Brian not only uses his platform to inspire and educate young minds but also works tirelessly to break down barriers and provide resources to foster a love of reading and learning among youth. Join us as we explore the transformational power of literacy and mentorship in shaping the futures of young individuals.
Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianjordan33/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialbrianjordan33/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brian.jordan.526438/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brianjordan813
-
In today's episode, we are joined by a special guest, Niurka Ozuna, a proud Dominican author from the Bronx, New York. Niurka is passionate about using literature to share her culture and initiate discussions that build awareness and literacy. She joins us to talk about her impactful children's book, "What's Wrong with Grandma? Que Le Pasa Abuela?" This book serves as a conversation starter about mental health, focusing specifically on schizophrenia and its effects on family dynamics. Niurka draws from personal experiences with her mother's schizophrenia to create a relatable narrative for children and families, aiming to demystify mental health issues and reduce stigma. As we explore this sensitive topic, Niurka provides insight into her inspiration, the challenges of addressing mental health in literature for young audiences, and the powerful responses her book has elicited. Join us in this enlightening discussion as we continue to embrace curiosity and empathy in understanding mental health.
-
In this episode of Our Classroom, we're diving into a topic of utmost importance: safeguarding our children in today's digital age. In this episode, we're joined by Erin Williamson, the Chief Program and Strategy Officer at Love146, an organization dedicated to preventing child trafficking and exploitation. With over two decades of experience in child protection and social services, Erin brings a wealth of knowledge about online safety, trafficking prevention, and trauma-informed care.
Together, we'll explore the realities of child trafficking, debunk common myths influenced by Hollywood's portrayal, and provide practical steps educators, parents, and communities can take to cultivate safe environments both online and offline. Whether it's navigating the complexities of healthy online relationships or fostering trauma-informed classrooms, this episode is packed with essential insights to help us protect and empower our youth. So, join us as we embark on this crucial dialogue aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of our children.
Social Media:
IG - @love146 / www.love146.org
-
In our latest episode, Roberto sits down with Noam Gerstein, CEO and founder of Bina, a global accredited virtual school pioneering precision education. Noam shares her visionary insights on online education, discussing the practicalities and wonders of teaching digitally, including the benefits of small class sizes, highly trained educators, real-time feedback, and a unique thematic approach to learning.
Throughout the conversation, Noam elaborates on how Bina's innovative methods cater to young learners across diverse time zones and cultural contexts. She highlights the importance of social-emotional learning, cultural inclusivity, and maintaining student engagement through various interactive and collaborative strategies. Moreover, Noam provides a fascinating glimpse into the future of early childhood and elementary education, emphasizing the role of technology in creating more accessible, impactful, and personalized learning experiences.
Welcome to Our Classroom!
-
Today we dive into the evolution of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) with the insightful Dr. Maggie Broderick. With over 20 years of experience in curriculum development and SEL, Dr. Broderick offers invaluable perspectives on how SEL has shifted from so-called "soft skills" to a critical, structured framework that enhances empathy, communication, self-regulation, and personal growth.
In this episode, we’ll discuss the crucial role of SEL for students, teachers, and the broader educational community. We’ll explore the work of CASEL and its influential SEL competencies, while Dr. Broderick shares real-world examples of SEL's impact on mental health and academic performance. We also tackle the political and regional challenges of implementing SEL and discover practical ways educators can start small and make a big difference.
Dr. Broderick shares her personal reflections, the significance of heart-based teaching, and why SEL should remain a priority in our ever-changing educational landscape. Welcome to Our Classroom!
-
Today, our host Roberto Germán sits down with graphic novelist Julio Anta and Lowell High School senior Junior Han for a compelling discussion that takes us deep into the world of storytelling, activism, and identity. Julio Anta, known for his impactful works like "Frontera," "Home," and "This Land is Our Land," shares his journey from childhood influences like Archie comics to creating graphic novels that vividly depict culturally rich narratives and social issues.
In this episode, we'll explore how graphic novels can enhance learning through their visual storytelling—a concept that resonates with Roberto's appreciation for multimodal learning. You'll hear Julio speak about drawing inspiration from his personal and historical experiences, tackling themes like immigration and identity to fill gaps he noticed in children's literature.
We'll delve into the educational value of graphic novels, how they help convey complex themes, and Julio's advice for educators on advocating for diverse texts in curricula. There's also a touching conversation about the significance of community, solidarity, and learning from historical figures during challenging times.
Tune in to hear this insightful conversation on how graphic novels can serve as powerful tools for empathy, education, and understanding in our contemporary classroom. This episode promises to inspire, educate, and broaden your perspective on the transformative power of storytelling.
-
Today’s episode, titled "Rethinking Weapon Play in Classrooms: Balancing Safety, Learning, and Playful Exploration," takes us on a journey through personal experiences, societal implications, and educational strategies around the often controversial topic of weapon play in early childhood settings.
Host Roberto Germán is joined by two distinguished guests: Kisa Marx, an author and anti-racist curriculum developer, and Samuel Broaden, an early education expert and speaker. Together, they bring a wealth of insight from their personal backgrounds and professional experiences.
Kisa Marx shares her childhood experiences growing up amid the crack war and gang violence in Chicago, contrasting with her current perspective as a parent and advocate for mindful play. Samuel Broaden reflects on his rural upbringing and evolving views on toy weapons, influenced by his educational journey and personal connections. Their discussion brings to light the complex layers of safety, racial dynamics, and the developmental importance of imaginative play.
Through this episode, we uncover how children use weapon play to explore power, consent, and kindness, and why it’s essential for educators to approach this subject with empathy and an open mind. We also delve into broader themes of boundaries versus rules in classrooms, the importance of continuous dialogue, and the unique challenges faced by educators today.
Stay tuned as we navigate these intricacies, providing practical insights and strategies for creating a balanced and inclusive learning environment. And don’t miss out on their collaborative work, "Rethinking Weapon Play in Early Childhood: How to Encourage Imagination, Kindness, and Consent in Your Classroom," available widely for those looking to dive deeper into this transformative approach.
-
Today, we are honored to have Dr. Amira Rose Davis as our special guest. Dr. Davis, an assistant professor specializing in 20th-century American history with a focus on race, gender, sports, and politics, will be joining us to delve into the intricate histories of Black athletes, especially Black women in sports. In this episode, Dr. Davis sheds light on the dualities Black athletes face, the role of historical narratives, and the symbolic yet complex victories on the international stage.
We'll also get an insider’s look into her co-authored children's book, "Go, Wilma, Go," which portrays the extraordinary life of Wilma Rudolph, addressing themes of perseverance amid racial and sexist barriers. From the inspirational highs of Wilma's athletic achievements to the critical social reflections they prompt, Dr. Davis offers us a vibrant and nuanced exploration of history's gray areas.
Stay tuned as we unpack topics from the significance of solidarity among Black athletes, the ripple effects of the Jim Crow era, to the ongoing fight for genuine representation and acknowledgment in sports and beyond. Whether it’s through her book, her podcasts, or her insightful research, Dr. Davis encourages us to celebrate achievements while navigating the complexities behind them.
-
In this episode, we'll explore the foundational principles of NVC, including the profound understanding that all behaviors are attempts to meet needs. Mike Tinoco shares powerful real-life examples from his teaching career and personal journey, shedding light on how recognizing and addressing unmet needs can reshape interactions and build stronger, more empathetic communities.
We'll also discuss the significant role of self-reflection and emotional awareness in understanding one's needs and emotions. Roberto and Mike will delve into their personal experiences, touching on themes like identity, belonging, and the importance of reclaiming personal stories to reshape identity and culture.
Additionally, Mike will unpack key concepts from his acclaimed book, "Heart at the Center: An Educator's Guide to Sustaining Love, Hope, and Community through Nonviolent Pedagogy." From creating safe and affirming spaces to practicing self-empathy, this conversation is packed with insights to help educators and community builders engage more empathetically and constructively.
-
In this episode of Our Classroom, Chris Lehman, the visionary Founding Director of the Educator Collaborative, joins to explore the critical importance of partnership in educational leadership, balancing autonomy and rigidity, and the power of co-creation tailored to the needs of schools and districts. Chris sheds light on the significant work the Educator Collaborative is doing to offer accessible professional development and shares inspiring examples from the field. Together, they reflect on the challenges and profound impact of teaching, the importance of responsive leadership, and the joy of contributing to a hopeful future for young learners.
Christopher Lehman is the Founding Director of The Educator Collaborative, a K-12 Literacy think tank and professional development organization, working to innovate the ways educators learn together.
He is an international speaker, literacy consultant, and New York Times best-selling author. He holds degrees from UW-Madison, NYU, and Teachers College, Columbia University. Chris has been a middle-school teacher, high-school teacher, literacy coach, and staff developer. He sits on the Board of Directors of the National Center for Families Learning, is a past Chair of the NCTE Middle Level Section, and past member of the NCTE Executive Committee.
With The Educator Collaborative, Chris is working to innovate the ways literacy educators learn in-person and online, providing professional learning for teachers, coaches, and administrators so students can hold their brightest futures.
Social Media:
@iChrisLehman on Instagram, Threads, and Facebook
@TheEdCollab on YouTube, Instagram, Threads, and Facebook
-
In this episode of Our Classroom, we're thrilled to present an eye-opening conversation with Kwame Sarfo-Mensah, a former 7th and 8th grade math teacher from Boston Public Schools and now a passionate education advocate. This episode dives deep into Kwame's journey from classroom challenges to global experiences in Sierra Leone. Kwame shares his frustrations and realizations about the varying commitments among educators, and he distinguishes between allyship and co-conspiratorship in driving meaningful change.
We'll explore Kwame's new book, "Learning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally Affirming Classroom," and discuss the critical difference between "schooling" and "education." You'll hear about Kwame’s personal experiences, insights on identity affirmation, the importance of empowering students, and practical ways for educators to move beyond intellectual discussions to tangible actions. Plus, get a glimpse into alternative educational paths, the financial implications of higher education, and the impact of supportive relationships in academic success.
Join us as we uncover these pivotal topics and invite you to connect with Kwame’s transformative work. Get ready for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that promises to inspire educators and learners alike!
#Education #IdentityAffirmation #InclusiveEducation #Teaching #KwameSarfoMensah #CulturalAffirmation #LearningToRelearn #OurClassroomPodcast #PodcastEpisode #EquityInEducation
Follow: @kwam_the_identity_shaper
Chapters
[00:00 - 05:00] Introduction to Cultural Affirmation in Education
[05:01 - 10:00] Understanding Key Teaching Challenges Today
[10:01 - 15:00] Creating an Inclusive and Affirmative Classroom
[15:01 - 20:00] Building Relationships with Culturally Diverse Students
[20:01 - 25:00] Navigating Systemic Barriers in Education
[25:01 - 30:00] Strategies for Culturally Responsive Teaching
[30:01 - 35:00] Fostering Student Empowerment and Voice
[35:01 - 40:00] Practical Tips for Teachers in Diverse Classrooms
[40:01 - End] Conclusion: The Future of Cultural Affirmation in Education
-
In today's episode, Roberto reconnects with Tony DelaRosa, a multifaceted educator, poet, and PhD student at UW Madison. It's been nearly three years since their collaborative poetry session, and now they dive deep into the complex impacts of affirmative action bans on education and racial dynamics.
Tony, the author of "Teaching the Invisible Race," shares insights from his extensive research on ethnic studies and race-based policies. Together, Roberto and Tony explore the implications of these policies on Asian American communities, as well as the potential ripple effects on Black and Latinx enrollments.
Throughout the conversation, Tony underscores the importance of cross-racial solidarity and the inclusion of diverse Asian American narratives in education. They discuss proactive educational leadership and the integration of underrepresented stories into the curriculum, using poetry as a powerful tool for emotional and cultural engagement.
Join us as we delve into the nuances of ethnic representation, the importance of solidarity among marginalized groups, and the ongoing efforts to elevate Asian American visibility in our educational systems. Tune in for an episode packed with profound insights and actionable ideas.
-
In today's episode, we're thrilled to dive into the inspiring world of language education with our special guest, Gretchen Melo. Gretchen is the visionary founder of El Puente Bilingüe, a Spanish language curriculum infused with Montessori principles. Roberto and Gretchen explore the development and impact of this innovative curriculum, which not only fills gaps in traditional Spanish teaching but also engages students through structured and creative activities.
Gretchen reveals her journey from noticing the potential in young learners' grasp of English grammar to creating a comprehensive curriculum that gradually builds linguistic skills through scaffolded learning, starting with basic greetings and progressing to complex sentence analysis.
They also discuss the challenges of developing these impactful materials, the importance of understanding community language exposure, and the valuable role Montessori environments play in fostering language acquisition. Plus, Gretchen shares insights into her online course, which makes her effective teaching methods accessible to a broader audience, including adults.
Stay tuned and learn how Gretchen's work is bridging language gaps in education and creating a community of lifelong language learners.
This episode is sponsored by Corwin.
Corwin provides sustained, job-embedded professional learning that supports educators to strengthen the knowledge, skills, dispositions, and practices that have the greatest influence on student growth and achievement.
-
Today we're celebrating the vibrancy of Dominican culture and the power of family through literature. Joining us is the inspiring author and poet, Lissette Norman, known for her evocative books like "Plátanos Go With Everything" and "My Feet Are Laughing."
In this episode, Lissette shares her unique writing styles and the journey behind her works, emphasizing the impact of Afro-Latino representation in children's literature. From her use of lyrical storytelling to her dedication to showcasing nurturing father figures, Lissette paints a heartwarming picture of Dominican life. She also offers invaluable advice for aspiring writers, stressing the importance of rewriting and engaging with young readers for honest feedback.
We’ll explore how books can serve as a conduit for cultural stories, and the significant roles they play in affirming children's identities. Whether you're an educator, parent, or aspiring writer, this conversation promises to inspire and expand your understanding of the importance of diverse voices in literature.
- Laat meer zien