Dr. Lakita McKinney on her journey in education “I never had a doubt about what I wanted to do professionally; I knew that teaching was going to be my profession of choice.” Few people are lucky enough to find their life’s passion before they graduate from high school. For Dr. Lakita McKinney, the new Managing … Continued
Proving What’s Possible Few educators receive adequate professional learning on grade-level standards and the curricular materials they use with students, hindering students’ access to lessons that meet their full potential. The evidence is evolving on which types of professional development models show improvements in teacher practice and student learning, with more work to be done … Continued
Meet Dr. Jennifer Slanger When Dr. Jennifer Slanger started her early education in Grand Rapids Public Schools, her school experience didn’t necessarily reflect the district’s diversity at large. She recalls, “My elementary school was primarily White students. I think I can remember one or two Black children in the entire kindergarten through sixth-grade building.” High … Continued
Dr. Stacey Alicea on the State of Professional Learning For many teachers, the school year so far may feel rife with challenges and increasingly complex paths to navigate. The question before those of us dedicated to advancing professional learning under these circumstances is a simple one: how can we help? With the challenges teachers face … Continued
The Work Required for a More Perfect Union American democracy is a radical notion. On July 4, 1776, our nation’s founders declared a vision for rule by the people that changed the course of the modern world. This group of men didn’t see women or people of color holding power in this new society, but … Continued
Reflections on 2022 You’ve made it: it’s winter break. Take a deep breath. Enjoy those warm sips of apple cider or hot cocoa, the laughter of holiday festivities, the crackle of a warm fire, or whatever else brings you joy. This time of year, we hear calls to look ahead—and we will in due time—but … Continued
This time of year, when many significant holidays converge, reminds me of how traditions foster connection. Last week, I was on a staff call during which Leading Educators team members shared their winter traditions. It became apparent that many of us share traditions centered around similar things…whether that’s food, an activity, or ways we … Continued
At this time of great change, GivingTuesday is a powerful reminder of our interdependence, our shared hopes, and the possibilities that collective action can unearth. GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Since then, it has become a way to elevate groundbreaking work in communities … Continued
Tara Troxel on embracing her Native American heritage as a teacher Difference has always been a part of Tara Troxel‘s life. She was adopted as an infant in Minot, North Dakota and her parents made every effort to make her feel special and loved. However, as she grew older, she wanted to learn more about … Continued
Building Teacher Efficacy Here in Grand Rapids, Michigan, rivers have special significance. The major tributaries are critically important to life in the entire Great Lakes region. They also mirror a metaphor offered by Elena Aguilar that has become a central focus for our Equity in Literacy Fellowship this year. What are Rut and River Stories? … Continued
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