How do unconscious biases and harmful stereotypes impact Indigenous students in today’s classrooms? In this episode of Reclaiming Our Roots, we explore the roots of these barriers and their effects on self-perception and equity in education. Join us as we discuss critical media literacy, educational inequities, and the policies and community-led initiatives driving change. Reflect on your role in creating inclusive spaces that affirm and empower all students.

Episode 2.1 - Unpacking Bias and Stereotypes in Education: Toward an Inclusive Future

In this episode of Reclaiming Our Roots, we explore Indigenous knowledge systems and their transformative role in education. From holistic approaches to learning to the integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), discover how Indigenous pedagogies challenge colonial frameworks and offer pathways toward sustainability, equity, and cultural affirmation. We delve into practical strategies for educators, the importance of community collaboration, and the need to dismantle systemic biases in our classrooms. Join us as we reimagine education through the lens of interconnectedness, respect, and reciprocity

Episode 2.2 - Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Pedagogies in Education

Ever wonder why speaking your native language feels like putting on comfortable house clothes? This fascinating episode dives into the transformative power of affinity spaces - environments where people connect through shared language, culture, and experiences.  Dr. Marcelle Mentor and Dr. Roberta Lenger Kang discuss how these spaces serve as crucial safe havens, particularly for individuals navigating predominantly English-speaking institutions. Through powerful analogies and personal experiences, they illustrate how these spaces enable individuals to truly be themselves. Listen to this episode to understand why affinity spaces aren't just nice to have - they're essential for building stronger, more inclusive communities for all.

We’re proud to make this content free and accessible to all. If you find value in our episodes, please consider donating to support and sustain our efforts: https://cpet.tc.columbia.edu/giving.html

The Power of Affinity Spaces: Finding Home in Shared Experiences

On August 12, the Richmond County Board of Education will decide who our next school superintendent is. Information about the two finalists, Dr. Malinda Cobb and Dr. Keith Simmons, is available on the school system's website. Host Janice Allen Jackson reviews the process, key data points illustrating the current status of the system, and her thoughts about what the school board should look for in a new leader. She also describes what a Strategic Waiver School System is, why Richmond County qualifies to be one, and the implications in the classroom. Learn more about the search and the finalists at https://www.rcboe.org/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&ModuleInstanceID=189409&ViewID=7b97f7ed-8e5e-4120-848f-a8b4987d588f&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=231796&PageID=1.

DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and opinions regarding this tragedy belong solely to her. These are not to malign any profession, organization, anyone, or anything. Local Matters does not endorse candidates.


To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page:
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Richmond County School System at a Crossroads with Janice Allen Jackson

Feeling overwhelmed by Gen AI in education? You're not alone. Dr. Julianne Ross-Kleinmann and Yaa Yaa Whaley-Williams from Ulster BOCES join us to discuss the real digital divide, why banning AI doesn't work, and what technology can never replace—the human heartbeat of teaching. Whether you're AI-curious or AI-cautious, this conversation offers practical guidance for navigating this revolution while keeping students at the center of teaching and learning. 

We’re proud to make this content free and accessible to all. If you find value in our episodes, please consider donating to support and sustain our efforts: https://cpet.tc.columbia.edu/giving.html


The SEL of AI: Keeping Humanity at the Heart of Teaching

Local and state governments, though often overshadowed by federal government, have tremendous impact on our quality of life. This podcast provides a valuable service by educating people on how to improve their own quality of life through civic engagement. Various organizations encourage residents to register and vote, but it does not appear that anyone is showing voters how to make good decisions when they do. It feels akin to hiring someone for a job without reviewing the job description. Local Matters changes that narrative by educating voters with short, clear, and unbiased civics lessons from a career local government professional, public speaker, and management consultant.

Teaching Today is brought to you by The Center for Professional Education of Teachers (CPET) at Teachers College, Columbia University.

In conversation with teachers, researchers, and school leaders, we’re dedicated to breaking down the problems, policies, and promising practices that define teaching. Uniting theory and practice, CPET promotes rigorous and relevant scholarship, and is committed to making excellent education accessible worldwide.

New tracks tagged #EducationalEquity