Too Dope Teachers and a Mic

You may remember the summer of 2020. We were caught in the grip of the initial months COVID-19 pandemic. A racial reckoning was beginning to materialize across the nation and, frankly, the world. When our guest that summer, Dr. Bettina Love, spoke with us at the NEA Racial & Social Justice Virtual Conference that year, she uttered the words "it is good to be here" and it was. We were surviving under constant threat of disease and violence.Nearly three years have passed since this incredible conversation, and we wanted to revisit it. Dr. Love is a light of joyful tenacity in our work, and we look back and realize with greater appreciation, how much she got us all through it. Many of you have reached out to ask us for this episode, so please enjoy this throwback to a more bootleg time for us (audio much less cute than now), but this beautiful liminal space that we found ourselves with great minds and spirits.Visit our sponsors at Carney, Sandoe & Associates!Support the podcast on Patreon!Find current work of Dr. Bettina Love and the Abolitionist Teaching Network here!

Dr. Erica Glover is brilliant, and able to speak on most anything, from hoops to equity to student voice to hip hop! In this joyful and amazing conversation, we get Dr. Glover’s take on QUEENS Angel Reese and Caitlin Clarke, the weather, the origins of Disrupter University, and, most importantly, her new book, Centering Student Voice: A Guide for Cultivating Emotionally Intelligent Educators and Culturally Responsive Classrooms. Plus a top five rappers that is straight out the barbershop. Dr. Glover is a servant of education, committed to equity, inclusion, and justice. Throughout her career in education, Dr. Glover has worked as an educator, administrator, and Human Resource/Diversity, equity and inclusion professional. As a former student-athlete and former professional basketball player, Dr. Glover realized that her passion to impact change was not limited to the basketball court. She remained committed to her community through the development of her non-profit, OKBNU, Inc. Through this non-profit, she was able to provide local youth with the opportunity to participate in AAU programs without the financial burden that deters many youth today. In 2017, Dr. Glover earned her doctorate degree in Urban Education, from Cleveland State University. With an emphasis on Policy and Planning, Dr. Glover has transferred her learning into reimagining the ways in which we socialize future teachers (current students and pre-service teachers), and in-service teachers. Today, Dr. Glover supports school districts and scholars through her organization, Disrupter University. Through this organization, she provides intercultural coaching for scholars and educators. She believes that advocacy is the key to liberation and peace, and develops training that allows others to see themselves in this work. Dr. Glover is also an author. She has just released her first book, Centering Student Voice: A Guide for Cultivating Emotionally Intelligent Educators and Culturally Responsive Classrooms. In her spare time, Dr. Glover enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family. Centering Student Voice book Visit Our Sponsor, Carney, Sandoe & Associates Check out Disrupter University Support TooDope Productions on Patreon! Our website

Dr. Erica Glover is brilliant, and able to speak on most anything, from hoops to equity to student voice to hip hop! In this joyful and amazing conversation, we get Dr. Glover's take on QUEENS Angel Reese and Caitlin Clarke, the weather, the origins of Disrupter University, and, most importantly, her new book, Centering Student Voice: A Guide for Cultivating Emotionally Intelligent Educators and Culturally Responsive Classrooms. Plus a top five rappers that is straight out the barbershop.Dr. Glover is a servant of education, committed to equity, inclusion, and justice. Throughout her career in education, Dr. Glover has worked as an educator, administrator, and Human Resource/Diversity, equity and inclusion professional. As a former student-athlete and former professional basketball player, Dr. Glover realized that her passion to impact change was not limited to the basketball court. She remained committed to her community through the development of her non-profit, OKBNU, Inc. Through this non-profit, she was able to provide local youth with the opportunity to participate in AAU programs without the financial burden that deters many youth today. In 2017, Dr. Glover earned her doctorate degree in Urban Education, from Cleveland State University. With an emphasis on Policy and Planning, Dr. Glover has transferred her learning into reimagining the ways in which we socialize future teachers (current students and pre-service teachers), and in-service teachers. Today, Dr. Glover supports school districts and scholars through her organization, Disrupter University. Through this organization, she provides intercultural coaching for scholars and educators. She believes that advocacy is the key to liberation and peace, and develops training that allows others to see themselves in this work. Dr. Glover is also an author. She has just released her first book, Centering Student Voice: A Guide for Cultivating Emotionally Intelligent Educators and Culturally Responsive Classrooms. In her spare time, Dr. Glover enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family.Centering Student Voice bookVisit Our Sponsor, Carney, Sandoe & AssociatesCheck out Disrupter UniversitySupport TooDope Productions on Patreon!Our website

Dr. Deborah Offner is a clinical psychologist with expertise in adolescent development, student mental health, and school life. She serves as Consulting Psychologist at Beacon Academy in Boston, a 14-month program between eighth and ninth grade that prepares students from communities with limited resources for entry into independent day and boarding high schools. She also provides ongoing professional consultation to several independent middle and secondary schools. Dr. Offner maintains an active clinical practice where she works with middle, high school, and college students, and their families. Her book, Educators as First Responders, shares the truth known all too well by educators: often, when a student is struggling, particularly in their adolescence, that student will often speak to a teacher first. Not a family member, not a parent, but a teacher. Dr. Offner shares with us her observations and recommendations for how we may better support our unsung first responders: teachers. Buy the book! Visit our sponsor, Carney, Sandoe & Associates

Dr. Deborah Offner is a clinical psychologist with expertise in adolescent development, student mental health, and school life. She serves as Consulting Psychologist at Beacon Academy in Boston, a 14-month program between eighth and ninth grade that prepares students from communities with limited resources for entry into independent day and boarding high schools. She also provides ongoing professional consultation to several independent middle and secondary schools. Dr. Offner maintains an active clinical practice where she works with middle, high school, and college students, and their families.Her book, Educators as First Responders, shares the truth known all too well by educators: often, when a student is struggling, particularly in their adolescence, that student will often speak to a teacher first. Not a family member, not a parent, but a teacher. Dr. Offner shares with us her observations and recommendations for how we may better support our unsung first responders: teachers.Buy the book! Visit our sponsor, Carney, Sandoe & Associates

Chicanologues 02. Denver Mayoral Candidate Lisa Calderón

Denver Mayoral Candidate Lisa Calderón talks with Gerardo Muñoz on the Chicanologues.

In this timely conversation, Gerardo is joined by Taylor Lyons, who represents Moms for Social Justice, an educational advocacy organization in Tennessee. The organization formed as a way to bring teachers and families together to raise consciousness and encourage diversity in the curriculum, especially through children’s and youth literature. This is a true grassroots organization that has been working side by side with classrooms and teachers for the last few years. The right wing narrative would have you believe that progressive forces in your public schools are secretly brainwashing your children in the six-to-eight hours they are away from you. In fact, the opposite is true. According to numerous polls, most parents are very pleased with their children’s schools and teachers. This is a deep conversation. We explore the pain of these manufactured culture wars, but the joy inherent in being in community with each other. Learn more: https://www.momsforsocialjustice.us/

In this timely conversation, Gerardo is joined by Taylor Lyons, who represents Moms for Social Justice, an educational advocacy organization in Tennessee. The organization formed as a way to bring teachers and families together to raise consciousness and encourage diversity in the curriculum, especially through children's and youth literature. This is a true grassroots organization that has been working side by side with classrooms and teachers for the last few years.The right wing narrative would have you believe that progressive forces in your public schools are secretly brainwashing your children in the six-to-eight hours they are away from you. In fact, the opposite is true. According to numerous polls, most parents are very pleased with their children's schools and teachers.This is a deep conversation. We explore the pain of these manufactured culture wars, but the joy inherent in being in community with each other.Learn more: https://www.momsforsocialjustice.us/

Nedra Rudolph is one of thousands of educational professionals that many of us see but never truly SEE. Having worked in Title 1 schools, as a Dean of Students, a paraprofessional, and a family liason. These professionals are categorically invaluable, and grossly undercompensated.She had a great situation, but like in so many situations, when leadership changes, so does culture. Never was the old saying "sometimes it's your own people" more true than in this situation, when White supremacy was perpetrated by a fellow person of color.After a painful journey, Nedra was able to leave her position with her head held high. She still gets to work with children daily, and has found new joy in her work.

Sulma Arzu-Brown is the perfect bridge between Black History Month and Women\’s History month. Brilliant, spirited, creative, and lively, Sulma carries her Afro-Latina and Garifuna pride with her daily. Like so many of us, becoming a parent renewed her commitment to cultural maintenance and pride. When her child came home having learning the concept of \”pelo malo,\” or \”bad hair,\” Sulma acted. She wrote the beautiful book El pelo malo no existe/Bad Hair Does Not Exist. She made sure that her children would love their hair, their culture, and their language, and resolved to bring those gifts to us.

Produced by Gerardo A. MuñozEdited and mixed by Gerardo A. MuñozMusic composed and performed by Kevin AdamsToo Dope Teachers and a Mic is a TooDope Production.Copyright 2023

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of White supremacy, violence, and racism. Be advised. Central Park Karen. BBQ Becky. These incidents have become tropes. Many of us laugh, if even in an exasperated way, when reminded of these incidents. But there is a deeper and more insidious reality for Black and Brown people. Violence, literal and symbolic alike, stalks us. If we are lucky, we only get angry and frustrated. But like countless others, too numerous to name, the results may be worse. Our guest this week is author, filmmaker, and activist Saira Rao. co-author with Regina Jackson of White Women: Everything You Already Know About Your Own Racism and How to Do Better, co-founder of Race2Dinner, and creator of the film Deconstructing Karen, joins Gerardo to discuss how she began on this path. She shares the deeply upsetting moment following the 2016 Presidential Election, when she discovered her “friends” true beliefs. She lambastes White Supremacy, and calls upon all of us to end it. All this and a Top Five that will surprise you. Get a discount with www.quetzalec.com when you mention us. Support the podcast at www.patreon.com/ttoodopeteachers

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of White supremacy, violence, and racism. Be advised.Central Park Karen. BBQ Becky. These incidents have become tropes. Many of us laugh, if even in an exasperated way, when reminded of these incidents. But there is a deeper and more insidious reality for Black and Brown people. Violence, literal and symbolic alike, stalks us. If we are lucky, we only get angry and frustrated. But like countless others, too numerous to name, the results may be worse.Our guest this week is author, filmmaker, and activist Saira Rao. co-author with Regina Jackson of White Women: Everything You Already Know About Your Own Racism and How to Do Better, co-founder of Race2Dinner, and creator of the film Deconstructing Karen, joins Gerardo to discuss how she began on this path. She shares the deeply upsetting moment following the 2016 Presidential Election, when she discovered her "friends" true beliefs. She lambastes White Supremacy, and calls upon all of us to end it. All this and a Top Five that will surprise you.Get a discount with www.quetzalec.com when you mention us.Support the podcast at www.patreon.com/ttoodopeteachers

Kevin forgot the podcast email password years ago. He texts Gerardo stuff to tweet. He has a vague notion that Instagram and Tik Tok might not be the same thing. He doesn\’t answer 67% of texts. And yet, he is using #ChatGPT for lesson planning. Our good friend Angela Watson of 40 Hour Teacher Work Week fame has developed content around the same topic, although way better and detailed than we did, and our friend Donnie Piercey vanished into a #ChatGPT rabbit hole, periodically surfacing to make fun of Gerardo. But, peoples, this isn\’t the act of a lazy teacher. Kevin and Gerardo discuss ways in which #ChatGPT may streamline the lesson planning process for teachers who are overwhelmed and stretched too thinly (this of course means ALL teachers). Kevin discusses how his framework for teaching is more personalized having used the AI. He is able to see exactly what it is that he does, reflect, and tweak. Gerardo muses about the way that #ChatGPT may support neurodivergent educators. He recalls being paralyzed by the instructional choices he had to make as a teacher, and how it caused him to spend too much time looking for materials, and wandering off track. What do you think about #ChatGPT for lesson planning? Let us know! In partnership with www.quetzalec.com Follow us! @toodopeteachers on Twitter and Instagram. www.facebook.com/too-dope-teachers-and-a-mic

Kevin knows about technology after all!

Valyn Lyric Turner is a spoken word poet, theatre artist, songwriter, and activist hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, the ancestral homeland of the Cherokee and Creek native nations. Valyn is a Senior Posse Scholar at Boston University where she double majors in Theatre Arts and Spanish. Some of her acting credits include starring in the radio drama “Iris”, local online safety series “Digital Citizenship,” and most recently, “LORENA: A TABLOID EPIC” at Boston Playwright’s Theatre. She is currently in rehearsals for the world premier of Kirsten Greenidge’s new play, Little Row Boat, or Conjecture at Boston University’s College of Fine Arts. As a spoken word artist and activist, Valyn has collaborated with several equity initiatives across the country, including the Minnesota National Association for Multicultural Education, Gwinnett Educators for Equity and Justice, Kalamazoo College, Gwinnett County Public Schools, Eden Prairie Public Schools, Georgia First Generation Association, and Kern County Superintendent of Schools to help educators foster cultures of inclusivity and equal opportunity for all students. She has recently been moved to use her platform to champion human rights in light of issues of systemic racism on display in the United States. Her work has been featured on numerous episodes of the LA-based podcast “The Only One in the Room” with Laura Cathcart Robbins, available on all streaming platforms. Valyn’s mission is to inspire, empower, and serve others through her craft. Partners: quetzalec.com TooDope Teachers on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @toodopeteachers Facebook Contact us: [email protected] support the show! www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Valyn Lyric Turner is a spoken word poet, theatre artist, songwriter, and activist hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, the ancestral homeland of the Cherokee and Creek native nations. Valyn is a Senior Posse Scholar at Boston University where she double majors in Theatre Arts and Spanish. Some of her acting credits include starring in the radio drama “Iris”, local online safety series “Digital Citizenship,” and most recently, “LORENA: A TABLOID EPIC” at Boston Playwright’s Theatre. She is currently in rehearsals for the world premier of Kirsten Greenidge’s new play, Little Row Boat, or Conjecture at Boston University’s College of Fine Arts. As a spoken word artist and activist, Valyn has collaborated with several equity initiatives across the country, including the Minnesota National Association for Multicultural Education, Gwinnett Educators for Equity and Justice, Kalamazoo College, Gwinnett County Public Schools, Eden Prairie Public Schools, Georgia First Generation Association, and Kern County Superintendent of Schools to help educators foster cultures of inclusivity and equal opportunity for all students. She has recently been moved to use her platform to champion human rights in light of issues of systemic racism on display in the United States. Her work has been featured on numerous episodes of the LA-based podcast “The Only One in the Room” with Laura Cathcart Robbins, available on all streaming platforms. Valyn’s mission is to inspire, empower, and serve others through her craft.Partners: quetzalec.comTooDope Teachers on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @toodopeteachersFacebookContact us: [email protected] the show! www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Branta Lockett moved through her educational odyssey at the highest levels. W.E.B. DuBois would have absolutely drafted her for his Talented Tenth All Star Team. Highly Gifted and Talented, International Baccalaureate, Brown University, she brought her sterling credentials to Denver, hoping to be the difference for all students, especially Black students. Her first two years as a Denver teacher were, simply put, “great.” But by year three, things began to unravel. She witnessed disproportionate disciplinary actions taken against Black boys. Still new to the work, she became a voice of advocacy for students and community. Her evaluation scores took a jarring dip. She changed roles, and found no support in any of them. Between COVID-19 and anti-Black dynamics within the union, she took the leap. The 5280 Freedom School, inspired by the Civil Rights era’s Mississippi Freedom Schools, launched first as a summer program. After having their charter initially rejected, they are poised to open their doors in “Harlem of the West,” the Five Points neighborhood. This story is at once a cautionary tale and a call to action. Learn more at www.5280freedomschool.com; follow them on socials @5280freedomschool. Check out our partners quetzalec.com.

Dishonesty in education policy is not a new thing. From the criminalization of Black education to the arrests and trials of the East LA 13 to now, individuals from historically marginalized, oppressed, and excluded communities have received the message that our histories, our contributions, and our humanness are not welcome in our schools. A few months ago Monica Washington (2014 Texas Teacher of the Year), Tracey Nance (2020/2021 Georgia Teacher of the Year), Chris Dier (2020 Louisiana Teacher of the Year), Takeru Nagayoshi (2020 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year), and I were invited to participate in the Voices for Honest Education Fellowship. We were deployed as voices for and with educators to combat fear-based education gag orders and book bans. Initially, the manufactured uproar over Critical Race Theory was the pressure point that bad actors located. As this strategy foundered, they turned their attention to LGBTQ students, teachers, and communities. We know that these bad actors are a fringe minority, but, unfortunately, they represent the tail that has wagged multiple dogs at the state and local levels. While it may be easy to dismiss them as a small group that doesn’t represent all Americans, they have successfully removed teachers, curriculum, and books from K-12 schools. One need look no further than Florida to see what happens when a small group gets the attention of an ambitious politician. We sat down to discuss our work, and to invite you into the struggle. Find more information by finding Voices for Honest Education on all social media platforms. Read our blog, attend our events, and let us know how it’s going in your space.

Dishonesty in education policy is not a new thing. From the criminalization of Black education to the arrests and trials of the East LA 13 to now, individuals from historically marginalized, oppressed, and excluded communities have received the message that our histories, our contributions, and our humanness are not welcome in our schools.A few months ago Monica Washington (2014 Texas Teacher of the Year), Tracey Nance (2020/2021 Georgia Teacher of the Year), Chris Dier (2020 Louisiana Teacher of the Year), Takeru Nagayoshi (2020 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year), and I were invited to participate in the Voices for Honest Education Fellowship. We were deployed as voices for and with educators to combat fear-based education gag orders and book bans. Initially, the manufactured uproar over Critical Race Theory was the pressure point that bad actors located. As this strategy foundered, they turned their attention to LGBTQ students, teachers, and communities. We know that these bad actors are a fringe minority, but, unfortunately, they represent the tail that has wagged multiple dogs at the state and local levels. While it may be easy to dismiss them as a small group that doesn't represent all Americans, they have successfully removed teachers, curriculum, and books from K-12 schools. One need look no further than Florida to see what happens when a small group gets the attention of an ambitious politician.We sat down to discuss our work, and to invite you into the struggle. Find more information by finding Voices for Honest Education on all social media platforms. Read our blog, attend our events, and let us know how it's going in your space.

Branta Lockett moved through her educational odyssey at the highest levels. W.E.B. DuBois would have absolutely drafted her for his Talented Tenth All Star Team. Highly Gifted and Talented, International Baccalaureate, Brown University, she brought her sterling credentials to Denver, hoping to be the difference for all students, especially Black students.Her first two years as a Denver teacher were, simply put, "great." But by year three, things began to unravel. She witnessed disproportionate disciplinary actions taken against Black boys. Still new to the work, she became a voice of advocacy for students and community. Her evaluation scores took a jarring dip. She changed roles, and found no support in any of them. Between COVID-19 and anti-Black dynamics within the union, she took the leap.The 5280 Freedom School, inspired by the Civil Rights era's Mississippi Freedom Schools, launched first as a summer program. After having their charter initially rejected, they are poised to open their doors in "Harlem of the West," the Five Points neighborhood. This story is at once a cautionary tale and a call to action. Learn more at www.5280freedomschool.com; follow them on socials @5280freedomschool.Check out our partners quetzalec.com.

In October 2022, Aurora Public Schools middle school band teacher Jimmy Day II was named Colorado Teacher of the Year. He became the first Black male to receive the honor, as well as the first graduate of a Historically Black College or University to be named Colorado Teacher of the Year. Gerardo was onhand to witness the historical event, and got to sit down with this creative, passionate, and brilliant teacher. We defy you to listen to his story and resist him.

In October 2022, Aurora Public Schools middle school band teacher Jimmy Day II was named Colorado Teacher of the Year. He became the first Black male to receive the honor, as well as the first graduate of a Historically Black College or University to be named Colorado Teacher of the Year.Gerardo was onhand to witness the historical event, and got to sit down with this creative, passionate, and brilliant teacher. We defy you to listen to his story and resist him.

I discovered Maribel González’s terrific @decolonizeinstruction account on Instagram, and was absolutely inspired by the ideas she shares there. A Native Xicana educator and Unschool Mama, she authored the books Social Justice and You, Be Your True Self, Build Strong Communities, Be a Changemaker and Choose Justice, she has also served as Director at the Center for Intergenerational Learning and National Faculty at PBL Works. We sat down this past fall to discuss her ideas and insights on identity, the arts, and decolonizing for our communities.

I discovered Maribel González's terrific @decolonizeinstruction account on Instagram, and was absolutely inspired by the ideas she shares there. A Native Xicana educator and Unschool Mama, she authored the books Social Justice and You, Be Your True Self, Build Strong Communities, Be a Changemaker and Choose Justice, she has also served as Director at the Center for Intergenerational Learning and National Faculty at PBL Works.We sat down this past fall to discuss her ideas and insights on identity, the arts, and decolonizing for our communities.

It's been a season of change in #TooDope Nation! With Gerardo firmly entrenched in the dark side, and Kev still holdin down the block, it was past time to catch up. In this episode, we catch up on the work we're doing, talk about these education streets, and make some resolutions for 23.Support the podcast on Patreon.Want great abolitionist PD for your community, school, or district? Check out Quetzal Education Consulting.

It’s been a season of change in #TooDope Nation! With Gerardo firmly entrenched in the dark side, and Kev still holdin down the block, it was past time to catch up. In this episode, we catch up on the work we’re doing, talk about these education streets, and make some resolutions for 23. Support the podcast on Patreon. Want great abolitionist PD for your community, school, or district? Check out Quetzal Education Consulting.

Jacci tells us her story of coming full circle. With her love for whom we in education consider as "littles," she tells her journey as a childcare center owner who, with a heart for doing more for her community, begins her work as a Diversity Equity and Inclusion Director in a Denver Metro Area organization. Listen in as Jacci describes her story and advice for Black folks in the early learning space.

Jacci tells us her story of coming full circle. With her love for whom we in education consider as “littles,” she tells her journey as a childcare center owner who, with a heart for doing more for her community, begins her work as a Diversity Equity and Inclusion Director in a Denver Metro Area organization. Listen in as Jacci describes her story and advice for Black folks in the early learning space.

Anthony Swann is probably the kindest, gentlest person I have ever met, especially relative to his childhood. Taken from his mother for his own safety, he landed in the foster care system. When he was feeling that the world had turned its back on him, and that violence, fear, and abuse awaited him at every corner, his teacher reached out to him to assure him that he would be okay.In 2021, he was named Virginia Teacher of the Year. But he is still healing from his trauma. Like me, he has had a difficult relationship with his father. Though our struggles are very different, his spirit and wisdom help me as I work toward healing.

Anthony Swann is probably the kindest, gentlest person I have ever met, especially relative to his childhood. Taken from his mother for his own safety, he landed in the foster care system. When he was feeling that the world had turned its back on him, and that violence, fear, and abuse awaited him at every corner, his teacher reached out to him to assure him that he would be okay. In 2021, he was named Virginia Teacher of the Year. But he is still healing from his trauma. Like me, he has had a difficult relationship with his father. Though our struggles are very different, his spirit and wisdom help me as I work toward healing.

Arvian Harper is a “Denver Public Schools lifer.” A graduate of the hallowed halls of East High School, she received a full ride engineering scholarship, later changing to pre-med. Like so many of us, she heard the call to the classroom, and she heeded, teaching Early Childhood Education, becoming a Team Lead and eventually moving into leadership. After a series of difficult challenges–a violent incident at the school, a strike, COVID-19 and a racial reckoning, she began to reflect on the Racial Battle Fatigue she had experienced. As she began to peel back the layers of trauma, she realized “There’s a whole person in there.’ Since her healing journey began, she founded Awakening Cafe and has entered a consulting role with none other than our own Dr. Asia Lyons. Healing is possible.

Arvian Harper is a "Denver Public Schools lifer." A graduate of the hallowed halls of East High School, she received a full ride engineering scholarship, later changing to pre-med. Like so many of us, she heard the call to the classroom, and she heeded, teaching Early Childhood Education, becoming a Team Lead and eventually moving into leadership.After a series of difficult challenges--a violent incident at the school, a strike, COVID-19 and a racial reckoning, she began to reflect on the Racial Battle Fatigue she had experienced. As she began to peel back the layers of trauma, she realized "There's a whole person in there.'Since her healing journey began, she founded Awakening Cafe and has entered a consulting role with none other than our own Dr. Asia Lyons. Healing is possible.

I first discovered the work of Gwendolyn Oxenham when one of my middle school soccer players told me of a film screening he had attended the night before. The film was called Pelada, and "it's about soccer," was the only synopsis he offered (6th graders, waddaya gonna do?).I decided to check it out, purchased it on iTunes, and it changed my life. Two division-1 soccer players, having finished their playing careers, found themselves directionless. In their words, "the pro leagues weren't calling, and we weren't in the national team pool,' explained my guest, Gwendolyn Oxenham. So she and her partner Luke decided to travel the world in search of the heart of soccer: the pickup game. Underneath all the money, all the contentiousness, the drive, the manicured fields, the billion dollar industry, is people with a ball at their feet. As she decolonized her relationship with soccer, she returned to her elemental self: the humans and the stories. Since the publication of her first book, Finding the Game and the film it was based on, Pelada, Gwen has continued the two things that ignite her passion: writing and soccer. She Published her second book, Under the Lights and in the Dark: Untold Stories of Women's Soccer, and it gained such acclaim that it was produced into the podcast series Hustle Rule, in which the stories were narrated by Hannah Waddingham, star of Ted LassoAnyone who reads Gwen's work will find their assumptions and beliefs about sports in general and soccer in particular disrupted. Plus an amazing top five! Hustle Rule Podcast, narrated by Hannah WaddinghamGwen's Books

I first discovered the work of Gwendolyn Oxenham when one of my middle school soccer players told me of a film screening he had attended the night before. The film was called Pelada, and “it’s about soccer,” was the only synopsis he offered (6th graders, waddaya gonna do?). I decided to check it out, purchased it on iTunes, and it changed my life. Two division-1 soccer players, having finished their playing careers, found themselves directionless. In their words, “the pro leagues weren’t calling, and we weren’t in the national team pool,’ explained my guest, Gwendolyn Oxenham. So she and her partner Luke decided to travel the world in search of the heart of soccer: the pickup game. Underneath all the money, all the contentiousness, the drive, the manicured fields, the billion dollar industry, is people with a ball at their feet. As she decolonized her relationship with soccer, she returned to her elemental self: the humans and the stories. Since the publication of her first book, Finding the Game and the film it was based on, Pelada, Gwen has continued the two things that ignite her passion: writing and soccer. She Published her second book, Under the Lights and in the Dark: Untold Stories of Women’s Soccer, and it gained such acclaim that it was produced into the podcast series Hustle Rule, in which the stories were narrated by Hannah Waddingham, star of Ted Lasso Anyone who reads Gwen’s work will find their assumptions and beliefs about sports in general and soccer in particular disrupted. Plus an amazing top five! Hustle Rule Podcast, narrated by Hannah Waddingham Gwen’s Books

After a summer of anticipation rumors, and conjecture, the BOYZ are BACK. Gerardo and Kevin, merely two EDUCATORS in the city of Denver! No, Gerardo hasn’t been replaced, and no his move to the proverbial “dark side” has not reduced his dopeness. And no, Kevin has not died without Gerardo in the building. What we hope you find in season 7 of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic is spirited banter and multi-perspective conversation about education on a school and systemic level. Two perspectives on the same fight. Each keeping the other grounded and honest. So let’s do dis, people! Who’s with us?

After a summer of anticipation rumors, and conjecture, the BOYZ are BACK. Gerardo and Kevin, merely two EDUCATORS in the city of Denver!No, Gerardo hasn't been replaced, and no his move to the proverbial "dark side" has not reduced his dopeness. And no, Kevin has not died without Gerardo in the building.What we hope you find in season 7 of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic is spirited banter and multi-perspective conversation about education on a school and systemic level. Two perspectives on the same fight. Each keeping the other grounded and honest.So let's do dis, people! Who's with us?

In the summer of 2020, as COVID-19 tore through communities, and law enforcement faced a racial reckoning, Minnesota named it’s 2020-21 state teacher of the year. In the state that saw the killings of George Floyd and Philando Castile by law enforcement, Qorsho’s recognition as the first Somali-American to be named teacher of the year remains significant. But what never stopped was the racist, misogynist and Islamophobic harassment that she faced regularly. Nevertheless, Qorsho continued to work hard for her students and community, advocating with them and for them. Until she could not go on. Qorsho was my first friend in our state teachers of the year cohort of 2021. And continues to be a source of strength, humor, and motivation to me. Her story is at once a powerful testimonial and a cautionary tale.

In the summer of 2020, as COVID-19 tore through communities, and law enforcement faced a racial reckoning, Minnesota named it's 2020-21 state teacher of the year. In the state that saw the killings of George Floyd and Philando Castile by law enforcement, Qorsho's recognition as the first Somali-American to be named teacher of the year remains significant. But what never stopped was the racist, misogynist and Islamophobic harassment that she faced regularly. Nevertheless, Qorsho continued to work hard for her students and community, advocating with them and for them. Until she could not go on.Qorsho was my first friend in our state teachers of the year cohort of 2021. And continues to be a source of strength, humor, and motivation to me. Her story is at once a powerful testimonial and a cautionary tale.

Summer has drawn to a close, if not officially, then in practice. Welcome to the conclusion of Summer Revolution Mixtape 2022! Fittingly, we will end with our new friend, our TrueDope Sister Afrika Afenni Mills. Afrika Afeni Mills is an Education Consultant and the author of Open Windows, Open Minds: Developing Antiracist, Pro-Human Students. She works with teachers, instructional coaches, and administrators to develop and sustain student-centered learning experiences that are diverse, inclusive, and equitable. Afrika has been featured on podcasts, blogs, delivered keynote addresses and facilitated sessions at conferences across the United States. Afrika believes that all educators can be motivated, engaged, dynamic practitioners and leaders when provided with the support needed to create student-centered, anti-bias, anti-racist, culturally responsive learning environments that inspire wonder and creativity and nurture diversity, belonging, equity, and inclusion. Keep up with Afrika’s work here. And buy the book!! AfrikaAfeniMills.com Twitter: @AfeniMills Instagram: Open Windows, Open Minds Facebook: Open Windows, Open Minds and Afrika Afeni Mills – Equity Guardian LinkedIn: Afrika Afeni Mills Personal Blog: Continental Drift Can buy the book from my directly by emailing me at [email protected], or on the Corwin.com website. Also through online resellers.

Summer has drawn to a close, if not officially, then in practice. Welcome to the conclusion of Summer Revolution Mixtape 2022! Fittingly, we will end with our new friend, our TrueDope Sister Afrika Afenni Mills. Afrika Afeni Mills is an Education Consultant and the author of Open Windows, Open Minds: Developing Antiracist, Pro-Human Students. She works with teachers, instructional coaches, and administrators to develop and sustain student-centered learning experiences that are diverse, inclusive, and equitable. Afrika has been featured on podcasts, blogs, delivered keynote addresses and facilitated sessions at conferences across the United States. Afrika believes that all educators can be motivated, engaged, dynamic practitioners and leaders when provided with the support needed to create student-centered, anti-bias, anti-racist, culturally responsive learning environments that inspire wonder and creativity and nurture diversity, belonging, equity, and inclusion.Keep up with Afrika's work here. And buy the book!!AfrikaAfeniMills.comTwitter: @AfeniMillsInstagram: Open Windows, Open MindsFacebook: Open Windows, Open Minds and Afrika Afeni Mills - Equity GuardianLinkedIn: Afrika Afeni MillsPersonal Blog: Continental DriftCan buy the book from my directly by emailing me at [email protected], or on the Corwin.com website. Also through online resellers.

After a turbulent year locally and nationally, Dr. Asia Lyons and Kevin Adams are back with your Back to School shopping list. They break down issues facing educators of color and the communities they serve as super-producer Gerardo Muñoz sits in the virtual producer’s chair! Asia discusses life after PhD matriculation, Kevin shares the trials and tribulations of the now-completed Master Agreement contract negotiations in Denver Public Schools, and we evaluate the way forward for teachers of color. Should they follow Dr. Asia, our pedagogical Harriet Tubman to liberation? Will Kev teach forever? Does Gerardo have the attention span to make this interview pop? Find out in this back to school episode!

After a turbulent year locally and nationally, Dr. Asia Lyons and Kevin Adams are back with your Back to School shopping list. They break down issues facing educators of color and the communities they serve as super-producer Gerardo Muñoz sits in the virtual producer's chair! Asia discusses life after PhD matriculation, Kevin shares the trials and tribulations of the now-completed Master Agreement contract negotiations in Denver Public Schools, and we evaluate the way forward for teachers of color. Should they follow Dr. Asia, our pedagogical Harriet Tubman to liberation? Will Kev teach forever? Does Gerardo have the attention span to make this interview pop?Find out in this back to school episode!

So, first things first. Kevin is out on important business. He did call a sub, but of course left no lesson plans. No problem, though, because his sub is none other than the amazing Juliana Urtubey, the 2021 National Teacher of the Year! In this inspiring, authentic, and powerful conversation, @kurtsenior_, representing America’s teachers in 2022, we learn what has motivated him for his twenty-five years in the classroom, why Black History matters, and most importantly, a top five that is old school in all the right ways.

So, first things first. Kevin is out on important business. He did call a sub, but of course left no lesson plans. No problem, though, because his sub is none other than the amazing Juliana Urtubey, the 2021 National Teacher of the Year!In this inspiring, authentic, and powerful conversation, @kurtsenior_, representing America's teachers in 2022, we learn what has motivated him for his twenty-five years in the classroom, why Black History matters, and most importantly, a top five that is old school in all the right ways.

What happens the year after a person is named CCSSO National Teacher of the Year? Find out when we catch up with 2021 National Teacher of the Year Juliana Urtubey! In her FIRST interview since her term ended, La Juli talks to us about her year representing America’s teachers, Joy and Justice, even today, and what she has learned about being in community with us. She also shares with us what is next for her (a TooDope Exclusive). Juliana Urtubey, NBCT is known as “Ms. Earth” for her efforts to beautify schools and unify communities through murals and gardens. As the 2021 National Teacher of the Year, Juliana advocates for a “joyous and just” education for all students, one that is inclusive and celebratory of all students’ identities, families and communities. A bilingual, first-generation immigrant, Juliana has worked throughout her teaching career to serve as a mirror for her school community, helping students to be proud of their identities and families, and to acknowledge their strengths and contributions to the community. Urtubey is the first Latinx National Teacher of the Year since at least 2005 and the third Special Education Teacher to hold this distinction. Juliana has served as a bilingual and special education teacher since 2009 in Arizona and Nevada. Juliana is a National Board Certified Teacher (Exceptional Needs, Birth to Age 21) and holds a bachelor’s degree in bilingual elementary education and a master’s degree in special bilingual education from the University of Arizona. She is a National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Board of Directors member. Juliana (HOO-lee-on-a ER-two-bay) lives in Phoenix, Arizona. She enjoys reading in Spanish and traveling, and has had the opportunity to study and teach in Ecuador, Mexico, Spain and Puerto Rico. She also enjoys tending to her collection of house plants and spending time outdoors, and she aims to visit all the National Parks.

What happens the year after a person is named CCSSO National Teacher of the Year? Find out when we catch up with 2021 National Teacher of the Year Juliana Urtubey! In her FIRST interview since her term ended, La Juli talks to us about her year representing America's teachers, Joy and Justice, even today, and what she has learned about being in community with us. She also shares with us what is next for her (a TooDope Exclusive).Juliana Urtubey, NBCT is known as “Ms. Earth” for her efforts to beautify schools and unify communities through murals and gardens. As the 2021 National Teacher of the Year, Juliana advocates for a “joyous and just” education for all students, one that is inclusive and celebratory of all students’ identities, families and communities. A bilingual, first-generation immigrant, Juliana has worked throughout her teaching career to serve as a mirror for her school community, helping students to be proud of their identities and families, and to acknowledge their strengths and contributions to the community. Urtubey is the first Latinx National Teacher of the Year since at least 2005 and the third Special Education Teacher to hold this distinction. Juliana has served as a bilingual and special education teacher since 2009 in Arizona and Nevada. Juliana is a National Board Certified Teacher (Exceptional Needs, Birth to Age 21) and holds a bachelor’s degree in bilingual elementary education and a master’s degree in special bilingual education from the University of Arizona. She is a National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Board of Directors member. Juliana (HOO-lee-on-a ER-two-bay) lives in Phoenix, Arizona. She enjoys reading in Spanish and traveling, and has had the opportunity to study and teach in Ecuador, Mexico, Spain and Puerto Rico. She also enjoys tending to her collection of house plants and spending time outdoors, and she aims to visit all the National Parks.

Man, we had no idea there were Chicano teachers in Nebraska, and we sure didn’t know they were as fire as Lee Perez, who represents that state for 2022. On a passionate and animated episode, Lee shares his path, his story, his commitment to justice for multi-language learners and the critical issue of teacher pay and working conditions. His top 5 is fire, and you cannot help but love this dedicated and passionate teacher.

“Oh sure, they’re gonna pick the big gay Appalachian” was Willie Carver’s first thought when he learned he had been nominated as 2022 Kentucky Teacher of the Year. It was a crowning achievement after fifteen years. Guided by the credo “fear has armor, love has none,” Willie supported students, especially LGBTQIA+ students, in being themselves and building a deeper understanding of their identities. Despite being warned by a school leader that being out and advocating for his community “you will be crucified, and no one will protect you, including me,” Willie continued to fight for his students. The homophobia and hate reached a boiling point, and Willie Carver, the 2022 Kentucky Teacher of the Year, resigned his teaching position. Hear his thoughts here. Support marginalized and minoritized teachers, students, and communities. Read Willie’s Story Here Connect with Quetzal Education Consulting! Too Dope Productions