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In this episode of the Teachers Forum, David engages with three distinguished educators—Sarah Rich Merlo, Jamie Lathan, and Matt Scialdone—who are dedicated to teaching American history, particularly the often-overlooked narratives from the Jim Crow South. The conversation discusses the Civil Rights Restorative Justice Project and the work they're doing to address the "harms resulting from the massive breakdown in law enforcement in the South from 1930 through 1970." The panel also discusses the importance of confronting hard histories, the role of restorative justice in education, and the necessity of honoring the victims of racial injustice through thoughtful teaching practices and community engagement. In this conversation, Sara, Jamie and Matt delve into the importance of humanizing historical narratives, particularly those involving systemic injustice and police violence. They share personal stories and teaching strategies that connect past events to present realities, emphasizing the role of primary sources in education. The discussion highlights the courage required to teach difficult histories and the profound impact this work has on students' understanding of their own identities and communities.

For more on Civil Rights Restorative Justice Project visit their website at https://crrj.org/
You can reach Sara Merlo sara.rich.merlo@gmail.com
Matt Scialdone: Waketruth.org or email him at: mscialdone@wcpss.net
Jamie Lathan: jamielathan@gmail.com

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In this episode of the Teachers Forum, David welcomes Sofia Gonzalez, a passionate educator and advocate for the Latino community. Sophia shares her journey from a daughter of immigrants (4:15) to becoming a teacher and nonprofit leader. She discusses the importance of cultural identity in education (00:08:39), the diversity within the Latino community, the debate around the term Latinx (16:16), and the challenges faced by Latino students and teachers (19:39). The conversation also touches on the significance of representation in education (28:37), and the initiatives of her nonprofit, Project 214 (00:43:49). Sofia shares her vision for the future of education where it is a right for all and where the voices of the Latino community are valued. (49:36).

You can contact Sofia on Twitter (X): @_sofiaspeaks and at sofiaspeaks.com

Recommended books by Sofia Gonzalez

1. Bettina Love: Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal and We Want to Do More Than Survive: Abolitionist Teaching and the Pursuit of Educational Freedom
2. Chris Emdin: Ratchetdemic: Reimagining Academic Success
3. Shawn Ginwright: Hope and Healing in Urban Education and The Four Pivots: Reimagining Justice, Reimagining Ourselves

Join the Conversation:
david@theteachersforum.org
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In this episode of The Teacher's Forum, David is joined by Dr. Roderick Carey from the University of Delaware to explore the educational experiences of Black and Latino boys in K-12 schools. Dr. Carey shares his personal journey and discusses the systemic challenges these boys face, such as disproportionate discipline and the lack of cultural representation in curricula. The episode emphasizes the importance of family, community, and educators in supporting these boys, helping them imagine their futures, and recognizing their diverse identities and talents.

Timestamps:
Roderick's Journey in Education:

• 4:13 – Early exposure to educators and passion for working with youth.
• 11:30 – Decision to pursue a doctorate after witnessing college struggles of high-achieving students.

Challenges for Black and Latino Boys in Education:

• 13:40 – Impact of standardized testing and cultural dissonance in college.
• 21:03 – Economic and familial responsibilities affecting college decisions.
• 25:48 – Systemic issues in K-12 education: disproportionate discipline and lack of representation.
• 29:46 – Adultification of Black boys and racial bias in schools.

Evolving Identities and Intersectionality:

• 40:08 – Challenging stereotypical representations of Black boys and embracing diverse identities.
• 47:23 – Gender fluidity and LGBTQ+ identities within Black communities.

Conclusion:

• 50:26 – Gratitude for mentorship and the "Finding Future Selves" resource.

Books mentioned: Bad Boys: Public Schools in the Making of Black Masculinity by Ann Arnett Ferguson
Black American Students in An Affluent Suburb (Sociocultural, Political, and Historical Studies in Education) by John Ogbu

Finding Future Selves website

Join the Conversation:
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In this special episode in honor of James Baldwin's 100th birthday we are joined by two distinguished educators, Dr. Yven Destin and Tyron Dandridge to discuss the life and works of James Baldwin and his impact on American history and fiction. They explore their personal encounters with Baldwin's work and how it has influenced their careers as educators. The conversation delves into the challenges of teaching Baldwin's work in predominantly white schools and the importance of confronting the lie of America's innocence. They also discuss the relevance of Baldwin's teachings in the current social and political climate. The conversation explores the themes of education, race, and identity through the lens of James Baldwin's work. The guests discuss the importance of teaching critical thinking and engaging in conversations about race and the lie of American exceptionalism. They also delve into Baldwin's sexuality and its impact on his writing. Dr. Destin also discusses his recently published book, What Can James Baldwin's "Little Man" Teach us About Children and Our Responsibility to Them. The conversation highlights the significance of Baldwin's legacy in inspiring future generations of students and educators. Recommended books by Baldwin include The Fire Next Time, Another Country, and the play Blues for Mr. Charlie. In addition, Begin Again: James Baldwin's America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own by Eddie Glaude.

Additional Baldwin Resources:
"James Baldwin: The Last Interview" with Richard Goldstein
A Talk to Teachers Essay 1963
Here Be Dragons
I Am Not Your Negro (Streaming on Hulu)

Dr. Yven Destin: yven.destin@gmail.com; www.youtube.com/@BaldwinPoet
Tyren Dandridge: tyrendandridge@gmail.com

Join the Conversation:
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Join host David Harris for Season 2 of *The Teacher’s Forum* podcast, premiering on September 3, 2024. Building on the success of Season 1, this season brings even more insightful discussions and stories that matter most to K-12 educators. From celebrating the 100th birthday of James Baldwin to introducing our new Teacher’s Forum Roundtable, we’ll explore the pressing issues in education today. Subscribe now to ensure you don’t miss any of the upcoming powerful episodes we have planned. This season is dedicated to the educators who shape the future every day.

Join the Conversation:
david@theteachersforum.org
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Please subscribe, share and leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Help us amplify the voices and issues of K-12 educators all over the world.

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In this engaging and final episode of Season I of The Teacher's Forum, David sits down with his former student, Sam Bright, an eighth-grade science teacher in East New York, Brooklyn who is in his third year of teaching. Sam shares his journey to becoming an educator and the challenges he faces in a diverse urban school. He discusses the importance of cultural awareness and the joy of helping students experience 'eureka' moments. Sam also highlights the extracurricular activities and unique opportunities provided by his school, such as a step team and a 2024 trip to Japan. He acknowledges the challenges of teaching a large number of students with diverse needs and the need for strong routines and support.

In this conversation, Sam discusses the challenges and potential solutions in the education system today. He highlights the need for targeted interventions and specialized intervention teachers to support students who are below grade level. He also discusses the impact of class sizes on teachers and the potential trade-offs of reducing class sizes. He shares his thoughts on pursuing a career in administration and the importance of extending grace to oneself as a teacher. The conversation also touches on the ongoing issue of segregation and inequities 70 years after Brown v. Board of Ed. Sam concludes by emphasizing the power of positive feedback from students and the importance of saving and revisiting that feedback to stay motivated.

Join the Conversation:
david@theteachersforum.org
X (formerly Twitter) @theforum1993
Please subscribe, share and leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Help us amplify the voices and issues of K-12 educators all over the world.

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In this compelling episode of The Teacher’s Forum, David interviews Matt Hawn, a veteran high school teacher from Tennessee who was fired in 2021 for teaching about race and white privilege. As educational landscapes across the country face unprecedented challenges, his experience sheds light on the broader issues at play. Matt openly explores the events leading up to his firing, and the larger context of political and social changes in education today. He also shares his perspective on the impact of the state's divisive concepts legislation on teachers and students, the challenges he faced during the appeals process, and the importance of standing up for teachers' rights. Matt emphasizes the need for support systems and resources for teachers facing similar situations and shares advice for educators navigating this perilous time. Join us for this important and inspiring conversation on an issue that is affecting teachers across the country.

To support Matt financially as he goes through the appeal process go to Matt's Go Fund Me page.
Check out these advocacy organizations for teachers: The Education Trust; The African American Policy Forum
Additional Articles and Resources:
Matt Hawn's story: A White teacher taught White students about White privilege. It cost him his job
A Mississippi Teacher was Terminated for Reading a Book
James Whitfield, former Grapevine-Colleyville principal, sues district
Her students reported her for a lesson on race. Can she trust them again?
The Growing Attack on Educators
Mapping Attacks on LGBTQ Rights in U.S. State Legislatures in 2024

Join the Conversation:
david@theteachersforum.org
X (formerly Twitter) @theforum1993
Please subscribe, share and leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Help us amplify the voices and issues of K-12 educators all over the world.

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In this engaging episode, David interviews Charles Williams, a Chicago public school assistant principal and host of The Counter Narrative Podcast, about his educational journey and career path. Charles shares his motivation for becoming an assistant principal and highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment for teachers. They discuss how principals are depicted in media, with a particular focus on Ava from the hit sitcom "Abbott Elementary." Charles emphasizes the need for a shift in education systems to better accommodate all students. Throughout the conversation, Charles and David tackle the challenges and necessary changes in education. They explore the apprehensions surrounding the implementation of project-based learning and the impact of high-stakes testing. Additionally, they delve into the flaws and inequities of the selective enrollment system in Chicago and reflect on the lasting significance of the Brown v. Board of Education decision on its 70th anniversary. Join us for this insightful episode as we dive deep into the future of education, exploring how pivotal changes can forge pathways to equity and excellence in our schools

To contact Charles you can reach him on Twitter(X) @_cwconsulting and listen to his podcasts: The Counter Narrative Podcast and Inside the Principal's Office

Join the Conversation:
david@theteachersforum.org
X (formerly Twitter) @theforum1993
Please subscribe, share and leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Help us amplify the voices and issues of K-12 educators all over the world.