Let's K12 Better

What does it mean to be “good” with technology? What are the 5 hidden habits of tech-savvy teens? How can educators and parents support technology learning habits in young people?In this episode, we sat down with Cassidy Puckett, assistant professor of sociology at Emory University. Cassidy is the author of REDEFINING GEEK: Bias and the Five Hidden Habits of Tech-Savvy Teens. Cassidy brings us research findings on digital equity; tangible tips for supporting young people of all backgrounds as they navigate (and build) technology; and suggestions on how we adults can reframe our understanding of what is the root cause of the STEM pipeline issue.Connect on Social Media:Twitter: @CassidyCody | #RedefiningGeekInstagram: @redefining.geekLinkedIn: Cassidy PuckettCheck out Cassidy Puckett’s research, books, and more on her website!Additional Resources:PBS NewsHour interview: As colleges and universities drop admission tests, what’s the impact on enrollment? Read the book: Redefining Geek Bias and the Five Hidden Habits of Tech-Savvy Teens Use the code UCPSOC for 20% off the book. A portion of the proceeds goes to Urban Promise Academy in Oakland, CA!Send us your community letters!Are you saddled with a troubling situation? Curious to hear what we think about a certain issue? Send us your questions! Your query may end up on the Let’s K12 Better podcast in our community letters section.  Send your celebrations and questions to this form or email us: LetsK12Better@gmail.com! Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail! *Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Music written and produced by Garvey Mortley. The Let’s K12Better podcast is written and produced by Amber Coleman-Mortley, Garvey Mortley, Naima Mortley, and Sofia Mortley.Support the show

5/21/22 • 69:34

“Social Studies is the curriculum of how we live our life.” YES!  In this episode, we sat down with veteran educators Joe Schmidt and Nichelle Pinkney, co-authors of Civil Discourse Classroom Conversations for Stronger Communities.  How do we leverage intellectual discomfort to grow and challenge ourselves and each other? What is the role of civil discourse in the social studies classroom and in other important spaces? Joe and Nichelle discuss how we work together to be better and why we need to build the skills to courageously engage in challenging and transformative conversations.Connect on Social Media:Follow Joe on Twitter: @madisonteacherFollow Nichelle on Twitter: @msnikki_pPurchase the book or get professional development:Purchase the book Civil Discourse Classroom Conversations for Stronger Communities Find the companion website with resources for classrooms and communities  Bring Joe Schmidt and Nichelle Pinkney in for professional development! Joe Schmidt’s website Send us your community letters!Are you saddled with a troubling situation? Curious to hear what we think about a certain issue? Send us your questions! Your query may end up on the Let’s K12 Better podcast in our community letters section.  Send your celebrations and questions to this form or email us: LetsK12Better@gmail.com! Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail! *Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Music written and produced by Garvey MortleyThe Let’s K12Better podcast is written and produced by Amber Coleman-Mortley, Garvey Mortley, Naima Mortley, and Sofia Mortley.Support the show

5/12/22 • 80:14

Social media isn’t going anywhere. And neither is technology. So how do we help kids learn leadership skills and interpersonal skills so they can have successful social media experiences In this episode, we sat down with Jennifer Casa-Todd teacher-librarian, author, and co-founder of the Global Education Student Chat to discuss how parents and educators can support young people as they explore the digital space.Connect on Social Media:Twitter: @JCasaTodd Twitter: @GlobalEdSsChat | #GlobalEdSsChatInstagram: @raisingdigitalleadersCheck out Jennifer Casa-Todd’s books and other publications on her website or via her linktr.ee!Learn more about student voice and how to support student leadership on social media on the #GlobalEdSsChat website: https://globaledsschat.com/ Send us your community letters!Are you saddled with a troubling situation? Curious to hear what we think about a certain issue? Send us your questions! Your query may end up on the Let’s K12 Better podcast in our community letters section.  Send your celebrations and questions to this form or email us: LetsK12Better@gmail.com! Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail! *Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Music written and produced by Garvey MortleyThe Let’s K12Better podcast is written and produced by Amber Coleman-Mortley, Garvey Mortley, Naima Mortley, and Sofia Mortley.Support the show

4/27/22 • 46:14

How does chronic stress impact the brain? How does play support pro-social behavior in kids? What are misnomers about Title 1 schools? How can we better equip new teachers working in high-challenge schools so they can meet the needs of the students in their communities? How do we tell the difference between poverty stressors and brain function and learning disabilities or ADD, ADHD?Grab a pen and get ready to take notes! In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Karyn Allee, veteran educator and Assistant Professor of Education at Mercer University to discuss education equity, increasing play in schools, and shifting our mindset around how we help schools in communities that are experiencing more challenges. Connect on Social Media:Twitter: @karynallee | #PlayInSchoolIsAnEquityIssueInstagram: @KarynAlleeLinkedIn: Karyn Allee, PhDCheck out Dr. Karyn Allee’s publications on ORCID or her Google Scholar Page!Resources mentioned in the episode:Search for an accredited Early Child Care Center/Preschool via the NAEYC link to help families find good daycare: https://families.naeyc.org/find-quality-child-careHarvard Center on the Developing Child Podcast (The Brain Architects) and Resource LibrarySend us your community letters!Are you saddled with a troubling situation? Curious to hear what we think about a certain issue? Send us your questions! Your query may end up on the Let’s K12 Better podcast in our community letters section.  Send your celebrations and questions to this form or email us: LetsK12Better@gmail.com! Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Music written and produced by Garvey MortleyThe Let’s K12Better podcast is written and produced by Amber Coleman-Mortley, Garvey Mortley, Naima Mortley, and Sofia Mortley.Support the show

4/20/22 • 71:22

What is action civics? Why is student voice so important, especially right now? How can we use informed civics and action civics more efficiently together? How can we expand our understanding of what equity in civics could mean?  So many questions!Civic education plays an important role in building a more inclusive, participatory, and equitable democracy. In this episode, we sat down with Elizabeth Clay Roy, CEO of Generation Citizen, a national nonprofit committed to providing youth with the knowledge and skills they need to actively participate in our democracy.Connect with Generation Citizen on Social Media:Twitter: @GenCitizen Instagram: @GenerationCitizenLinkedIn: Generation CitizenFacebook: Generation CitizenGet resources to support your young civic participants! Democracy Doesn't Pause resource for educators and familiesGeneration Citizen websiteToo much money in politics, and not enough in democracy by Elizabeth Clay Roy via The HillSend us your community letters!Are you saddled with a troubling situation? Curious to hear what we think about a certain issue? Send us your questions! Your query may end up on the Let’s K12 Better podcast in our community letters section.  Send your celebrations and questions to this form or email us: LetsK12Better@gmail.com! Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!The Let’s K12Better podcast is written and produced by Amber Coleman-Mortley, Garvey Mortley, Naima Mortley, and Sofia Mortley.Music written and produced by Garvey MortleySupport the show

4/6/22 • 57:28

What makes current events so important? Where does news intersect with history? How do we find resources to support important civic conversations? What should parents understand about the importance of social studies and civic education, current events, or media literacy? In this episode, we sat down with David Olson, the Director of Education at Retro Report, a non-profit media company dedicated to connecting history to today’s news. Learn more about this wonderful resource and what David has to say about social studies, current events, and media literacy!“What’s On Your Mind?” Are you saddled with a troubling situation? Curious to hear what we think about a certain issue? Send us your questions! Your query may end up on the Let’s K12 Better podcast in our community letters section.  Send your celebrations and questions to this form or email us: LetsK12Better@gmail.com! We mentioned the following resources:Frontline PBS Film - American Reckoning Classroom materials via Retro Report  Education pageSign up for the free webinar “Tools for Teaching Immigration and Migration” scheduled for Wednesday, April 13th from 7 - 8 PM ET. Register here: bit.ly/TeachingImmigrationConnect on Social Media:David Olson on Twitter (@davidjohnolson)Retro Report on Twitter (@RetroReport)Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Music written and produced by Garvey Mortley.The Let’s K12Better podcast is written and produced by Amber Coleman-Mortley, Garvey Mortley, Naima Mortley, and Sofia Mortley.Support the show

3/23/22 • 68:30

We started our podcast to discuss K12 education as a project and a response to COVID-19 with our first episode, “Schooling Through An Apocalypse.” What’s changed in education since lockdown happened in March 2020? Lots! In this episode, we discuss Virtual Academy, how schooling has evolved over the last two years, and more. Mom gets feedback on her parenting during the pandemic… and there is a bird by our window looking for love. (Shoutout to the Vernal Equinox! What, whaaat!!!)Are you saddled with a troubling situation? Curious to hear what we think about a particular issue? Send us your questions! Tell us “What’s On Your Mind?” your query may end up on the Let’s K12 Better podcast in our community letters section. Send your celebrations and questions to this form or email us: LetsK12Better@gmail.com! Listen to the episode that started it all, Season 1, Episode 1!  Schooling Through An Apocalypse. Our community question touched upon education and Black students and educators. Here's what Amber's reading that she mentioned in the episode... Fugitive Pedagogy: Carter G. Woodson and the Art of Black Teaching by Jarvis R. GivensThe Education oF Blacks in the South 1860-1935 by James D. AndersonLove our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!  Subscribe to our newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail! Music written and produced by Garvey MortleyThe Let’s K12Better podcast is written and produced by Amber Coleman-Mortley, Garvey Mortley, Naima Mortley, and Sofia Mortley.Support the show

3/17/22 • 77:50

Welcome to season 3 and Happy Black History Month! We open up the season with a discussion on current events, books we’re reading, and how we plan to set the tone for this upcoming season. FYI… we are working on a new sound setup. We haven’t learned it all yet and appreciate your patience. We are attempting to capture all the nuances of the conversation by recording the whole table. Don’t forget to tell us “What’s On Your Mind?” Are you saddled with a troubling situation? Curious to hear what we think about a certain issue? Send us your questions! Your query may end up on the Let’s K12 Better podcast in our community letters section.  Send your celebrations and questions to this form or email us: LetsK12Better@gmail.com! We mentioned the following articles:AirTag stalking: Alleged victims speak out as privacy concerns mount over new Apple tracking product Police arrest protesters who remained at US-Canada bridge 5 Ways Young People are Using Discord We are reading the following books:Minor Feelings: An Asian American Reckoning Book by Cathy Park Hong Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Monique W. MorrisFeminist AF: A Guide to Crushing Girlhood by Brittney Cooper, Chanel Craft Tanner, and Susana M. Morris Fugitive Pedagogy: Carter G. Woodson and the Art of Black Teaching by Jarvis R. GivensThe Education oF Blacks in the South 1860-1935 by James D. AndersonWe discussed the criminalization of Black girls. Please read this article to learn more: The Criminalization of Black Women Starts EarlyMore on news and media literacy:Play iCivics NewsFeed Defenders!Learn more National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE)Music written and produced by Garvey MortleyThe Let’s K12Better podcast is written and produced by Amber Coleman-Mortley, Garvey Mortley, Naima Mortley, and Sofia Mortley.Support the show

2/17/22 • 54:50

Financial literacy and financial freedom are interconnected. As we think ahead to the upcoming year, setting goals is always a great way to establish solid footing. Setting financial goals… that’s boss level!How do we bring our young people along as we learn more about financial planning and financial literacy? What can parents and educators do to support good financial habits in kids? How can we adults shift how we see financial freedom? In this episode, we sat down with Managing Director, Certified Financial Planner®, Cristina Briboneria. THIS ISN’T FINANCIAL ADVICE, but it’s a pretty dope conversation and we hope this inspires you to think about your financial goals for 2022.Follow on Social Media: Cristina Briboneria on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbriboneria/ Cristina Briboneria on Instagram: @cristina23bCristina Briboneria on Twitter: @CristinaBribsEmail: cbriboneria@oxygenfinancial.net Find resources and more:Cristina’s Website: http://cristinabriboneria.com/  Investopedia: https://www.investopedia.com/  Our podcast returns for season 3 early next year! Subscribe so that you can get the alerts when we’re live!Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

12/31/21 • 25:02

Many discussions on equity often fail to center the needs of special education students. In this episode, we sat down with  Ashley Tucker, special educator, Dean, social-emotional learning enthusiast, and Ed Leadership student at Teachers College. On her Instagram she shares anti-racist, trauma-informed resources.  We discuss a variety of techniques and strategies parents and educators can use as they learn emotionally alongside their students.Follow on Social Media: Ashley Tucker on Instagram: @teacherspayblackteachersAshley Tucker on Twitter: @ashleytuckFind books, resources, and more:Ashley Tucker Linktree - https://linktr.ee/teacherspayblackteachersWhy SEL Matters Even More in Schools: https://www.6seconds.org/2020/10/09/sel-covid/ Summer Principal’s Academy 2020 Cohort: https://www.tc.columbia.edu/organization-and-leadership/spa-nyc/students/2020-cohort/  Looking for more ways to understand and use person-centered language?Unhandicap Your Language (Colorado State University) https://disabilitycenter.colostate.edu/inclusive-language/ How to be more inclusive when it comes to developmental disabilities https://www.communityhealthmagazine.com/mind_and_body/social_health/how-to-be-more-inclusive-when-it-comes-to-developmental-disabilities/article_45088c98-70f5-11e9-a1b7-8745d90d6bab.html We also share our thoughts on the South Dakota icerink competition that had teachers foraging for $1 bills, Time Person of the Year, and bell hooks and her impact on intersectional feminism. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

12/16/21 • 44:46

Do history, civics, and empathy work together? YES… yes, they work together! And if we allow them to work together, our students gain an appreciation for the act of “doing” social studies and history. We can make history come alive when students have the opportunity to explore cultural, gendered, and racial perspectives within the context of a historical period as part of their own understanding of civic agency.  In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Katie Perrotta, Assistant Professor of Middle Grades and Secondary Education with an emphasis on social studies education in the Mercer University College of Education. In our conversation, we cover how to make history come alive for students because kids should experience a vibrant, inclusive, truthful history paired with engaging civic experiences that solve real-world problems.Follow on Social Media: Dr. Katie Perrotta on Twitter: @DrKAPerrottaFind books, resources, and more:The Elizabeth Jennings Project: https://elizabethjenningsproject.wordpress.com/ Dr. Katie Perrotta at Mercer University: https://education.mercer.edu/faculty-and-staff/katherine-perrotta/  *In this episode, we mentioned the Texas legislature Senate Bill 3 and how it goes against best practices and stifles agency and creativity in history, social studies, and civics classrooms.  Learn more about that bill here (but also read the actual bill and see if you agree or not for yourself): https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/872/billtext/pdf/SB00003F.pdf#navpanes=0 https://www.chron.com/politics/article/Texas-critical-race-theory-law-schools-16678700.php https://www.texastribune.org/2021/12/02/texas-critical-race-theory-law/  *UPDATE: we fixed a small audio error. Thanks so much for being patient and for sticking with us as we learn! ---Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!Support the show

12/9/21 • 52:28

Games are not only fun pastime activities, they’re great vehicles for learning. How can we use games to teach civics skills, social-emotional learning, and digital citizenship? How might we use games to teach us how to be together?In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Kat Schrier, Director of Games/Associate Professor at Marist College. She is also the Founder/CEO of PlatyPlay, LLC, which specializes in designing and researching games for learning and inclusion. Follow on Social Media: Kat Schrier on Instagram: @drgamermomKat Schrier on Twitter: @drgamermomLinkedIn: Dr. Kat SchrierFind books, resources, and more:We The Gamers: https://www.amazon.com/We-Gamers-Games-Ethics-Civics/dp/0190926112 Games for Civics: www.GamesForCivics.com Free Books!!! www.GamesForGrowing.com  In our discussion, we mentioned John Hunter’s World Peace Game. Learn more about that here: https://worldpeacegame.org/  Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

10/17/21 • 47:04

When executed well, early childhood education (preschool and nursery school) establishes a solid foundation with long-lasting impact on a child's social-emotional and educational journey.  However, many parents (and even educators) do not understand how critical the 0 to 5 years are for establishing long-term success.How do we best connect the care and learning happening in preschool to the care and learning in K12 classrooms? What should parents look out for when selecting learning environments for their kids? How can educators evolve their practices to ensure they have the tools and skills necessary for supporting the growth and development of every child in their classroom?In this episode, we sat down with Annette Serwanga M.A.Ed of Serwanga Consulting where she assists parents, early childhood educators, and learning facilities with strategies to teach and support the whole child during the formidable years of birth to 5 years old.Follow Annette on Social Media: Annette Serwanga on Instagram: @swangcnsults2Annette Serwanga on Clubhouse: @eceguruLinkedIn: Annette Serwanga M.A.Ed. Serwanga Consulting Website: https://serwangaconsulting.com/    Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

9/23/21 • 33:16

There are increased benefits for all students, but specifically for Black students, when there are Black teachers in the classroom. How do we build pipelines that increase the number of Black educators in our schools? How can programming and networks support best teaching practices for Black educators as they support their Black students?  In this episode, we sat down with Hiewet Senghor Founder and CEO of the Black Teacher Collaborative - a social entrepreneurship venture, provides an opportunity to engage in the development of strategies and tools that build the mindsets, skills, and knowledge needed to actualize a new model for Black teacher impact and efficacy. Follow on Social Media: Black Teacher Collaborative on Twitter: @BlkTeachCollab Black Teacher Collaborative on Instagram: @blackteachercollabBlack Teacher Collaborative on Facebook: /blackteachercollaborativeHiewet Senghor on Twitter: @BTCHiewetBlack Teacher Collaborative Website: https://blackteachercollaborative.org/       Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Our podcast music was created and produced by Garvey Mortley.Support the show

9/9/21 • 55:44

Technology is a tool for innovation,  a medium for self-expression, and an opportunity for us to push the boundary of what we know. Technology and the internet hold the potential to be leveraged for immense good, as well as, extreme ill intent. Often parents and educators are worried about the ways in which young people will use technology negatively. Instead, we should model positive tech habits for our kids, discuss our expectations for them when they're online, and get a lot more curious and excited about kids' lived experiences with technology. How do we respect our kids’ privacy and digital footprint? How can parents become more aware of the challenges kids face while growing up in the digital era? How do we prepare kids to have the skills, awareness, and empathy they need to thrive in a digital world? In this episode, we sat down with digital parenting guru, Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World and the founder of Raising Digital Natives. Our favorite takeaway from this episode... remember that there's a person on the other side of the screen receiving your communications. Follow Dr. Devorah Heitner on Social Media: Dr. Devorah Heitner on Instagram: @RaisingDigitalNatives Dr. Devorah Heitner on Twitter: @DevorahHeitnerDr. Devorah Heitner on Facebook: /RaisingDigitalNatives Raising Digital Natives Website: https://www.raisingdigitalnatives.com/screenwise/   The Challenges of Raising a Digital Native | Devorah Heitner, Ph.D. | TEDxNaperville: https://youtu.be/eRQdAOrqvGg    Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

9/3/21 • 51:44

Every parent could use more support and more joy. Did you know that you could be a catalyst for support and for joy not only in your own life but in the lives of others? What are you pouring into the communities you’re part of? How are you sharing your expertise and wisdom with others? How do community members support each other and learn from one another? In this episode, we sat down with Camille Robinson (Camille Joy), mother of five, host of the Moments of Joy podcast, and founder of The Real Moms Club on Clubhouse. Camille brings joy to her parenting, her entrepreneurship, her podcasting, and her community. We learned a lot about balance, being grounded in your faith, and taking time for self-care. We named Camille the fairy godmother of podcasting because she shares her knowledge with others aspiring to podcast and bring their message to the world. Follow on Social Media: Camille Robinson on Instagram: @MomentsOfJoyPodcast Camille Robinson on Twitter: @MomentsOfJoyPodCamille Robinson on Facebook: /MomentsOfJoyPodcast Camille Robinson on Clubhouse: @MomentsOfJoyPod Camille Robinson’s Podcast and Website: https://www.mojpodcast.com/meet-camille The Real Moms Club on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/club/TheREALMomClub   Resources available at the Center for Parent and Teen Communication, Culturally Responsive Parenting resources: https://parentandteen.com/category/culturally-responsive-parenting/Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

8/18/21 • 33:08

Does your school have a full-time school librarian? Are you aware of what your school library can do for your students? It’s more than just passing out books and supporting language arts. Our school libraries are at the heart of all subjects and learning at schools… including math and science. How can schools better leverage the knowledge and expertise that school librarians bring? And what can school librarians do to build bridges and a deeper understanding of what they can provide? In this episode, we sit down with K.C. Boyd, school library activist, public speaker, social influencer, to learn about the central role school librarians can (and should) play in the school community.K.C. Boyd’s Website: http://www.kcboyd.com/ Follow K.C. Boyd on Social Media: Instagram: @Boss_LibrarianTwitter: @Boss_LibrarianFacebook: /BossLibrarianClubhouse: @Boss_Librarian  Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

8/4/21 • 41:44

How can we use stories to bring together people of differing opinions, experiences, and perspectives to create a more nuanced understanding of the human condition? Stories have the power to build bridges, foster community, facilitate understanding, and strengthen bonds. Stories can heal communities. Stories can help us discover collective joy or understand shared traumas. But what we choose to do after hearing another person’s story is what’s most powerful.In this episode, we sit down with Lee Keylock, Director of Global Programs and Training at Narrative4 to learn about how to intentionally foster empathy and impact through storytelling.Follow on Social Media: Lee Keylock on Twitter: @leeroykeylockLee Keylock on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-keylock-328061b3/ Narrative 4 on Instagram: @narrative4Narrative 4 on Twitter: @narrative4Narrative 4 on Facebook: /narrative4Journal of Care and Caring: Inviting the Human, by Lee Keylock https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/tpp/ijcc/2018/00000002/00000003/art00010 Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!(We found that there was a bit of a hiss on the kids' mics in this episode.  It's a learning journey and we're working on it! Thanks for understanding.)Support the show

7/21/21 • 57:40

How can we live history, right now, today? History comes to life when we can connect legislation, Supreme Court rulings, and major historic events to real people. When we understand the impact of historic events and decisions on people’s lives, we gain the humility and empathy to dissolve barriers that prevent us from connecting with others and learning from past mistakes.In this episode, we sit down with filmmakers, podcasters, and content creators, Larissa Lam and Baldwin Chiu to learn about their film Far East Deep South and how their family journey opened up so many epiphanies about what it means to be an American.Feeling inspired? Check out our Collective History Family Discussion Questions and Activities: https://www.momofallcapes.com/blog/reclaiming-our-collective-history Connect with Larissa, Baldwin, and watch the Film:Check out the documentary Far East Deep South: https://fareastdeepsouth.com/Educational licensing of Far East Deep South available through http://newday.comFollow on Social Media: Far East Deep South on Instagram: @fareastdeepsouth Far East Deep South on Twitter: @fareastdeepso Larissa on Instagram: @larissalammusic Larissa on Twitter: @larissalam Baldwin on Instagram: @onlywonmc  Baldwin on Twitter: @onlywon More Larissa and Baldwin Awesomeness: Love Discovery and Dim Sum Podcast: https://fareastdeepsouth.com/podcast/Asian Americans Make History: https://youtu.be/Vl_0qdAPUGs ----------Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

7/7/21 • 48:36

School should be a place where kids love to go, not a place where kids have to go. But what can educators (and even parents) do to engage students in learning that truly speaks to their interests? How can we bring in outside content experts to expand our lessons beyond the textbook and create lasting memories for our young people?We sat down with The Expert Effect co-authors Grayson McKinney - a fifth grade teacher, technology facilitator, educational writer, speaker, and Zach Rondot - a fourth grade teacher, presenter, and Oakland County Elementary Teacher of the year.Follow Grayson and Zach on Social Media: Connect with Grayson on his blog: www.Innovation4Education.WordPress.com  Grayson on Instagram @ExpertEffectEduGrayson on Twitter and Clubhouse @GMcKinney2Connect with Zach on his blog: www.ZachRondot.com Zach on Instagram @ZachRondotZach on Twitter @MrRondot  Check out the book The Expert Effect: A Three-Part System to Break Down the Walls of Your Classroom and Connect Your Students to the World: Find The Expert Effect on Amazon in paperback and ebook versions. Find The Expert Effect at Barnes & Noble.com in paperback and ebook versions. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

6/22/21 • 48:14

Juneteenth represents a moment in time when freedom was delayed for a large group of people. In times where society is pushing back against injustice, how do we create space to celebrate and acknowledge victories? How do we build the capacity to connect with our inner selves and with those around us? How is art a perfect medium for healing and reciprocity?  We sat down with Jen Bloomer artist, activist, facilitator, and the founder of Radici Studios to learn more about art as a community healing experience. Join Amber and Jen on June 19th, 2021 for a virtual celebration of Juneteenth as a collective exploration of freedom, liberty, and liberation. Don’t miss it! Register now:  https://radicistudios.com/workshops Follow Jen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radicistudios/    Check out these additional resources: Radici Studios: https://radicistudios.comS1. Ep.9 - Juneteenth: Celebrating the Struggle: https://letsk12better.buzzsprout.com/1036873/4234685-juneteenth-celebrating-the-struggle Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

6/3/21 • 28:38

What does justice look like if we are allowed to contribute everything we are to the communities we’re part of? The skills, tools, and processes needed to maintain community are social-emotional learning skills. Humans are innovative and we invest in the technology needed to keep our society going, but we need to begin to invest in human innovation, in the institution of the individual, and in the skills required to build deeper connections with others. We sat down with David Adams, CEO, The Urban Assembly. David presents an opportunity to reimagine and dream while providing an educational equity blueprint. Our favorite quote from this conversation was: “It’s difficult to hate people you’re in community with. It's difficult to strip the dignity of a person that you’re in a deep relationship with”.   We encourage you to sit back, close your eyes and join us in pursuing a better way.Follow David's Thoughts and Work on Social Media: David Adams on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DAdams_SELThe Urban Assembly on Twitter: https://twitter.com/UrbanAssemblyThe Urban Assembly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theurbanassembly/  Check out The Urban Assembly Social-Emotional Learning Symposium https://urbanassembly.org/events/2nd-annual-urban-assembly-social-emotional-learning-symposium Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

5/14/21 • 55:18

It’s our anniversary! (Thank you for listening)This podcast started with a family discussion on schooling through an apocalypse. We learned however that this podcast evolved into our year-long journey and exploration into important discussions that families need to have. We hope that this episode like all of the others serves as an invitation to have more meaningful discussions about justice, civics, race, and wellness.In this episode, we talk about how to cultivate a justice mindset in kids. We briefly discuss the Derek Chauvin verdict. We ask that our listeners please keep the family of George Floyd as well as the witness who filmed this atrocity, Darnella Frazier in your prayers. We also encourage our listeners to start and stop the episode and have a family discussion with us! Check out these resources: Cultivating A Justice Mindset in Kids Wakelet https://wakelet.com/wake/SbMhvpManxVyDVVGrn5xq Peace One Day panel "Youth Taking A Stand Against Racism" https://vimeo.com/530368145#t=13488s (cued up to 3:44:48) Join me on Clubhouse on Saturdays at 11:30 am EST: https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/equitych-equity-chat I mentioned the NPR coverage of Josh and Sharnissa Secret "For Some Black Kids, Remote Learning Has Offered A Chance To Thrive"Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

4/22/21 • 46:46

The public library is undoubtedly a civic space and school libraries are essential to the K12 learning journey. But how have libraries and the role of the librarian evolved to meet the needs of our students during COVID-19?  We sat down with Dr. Corey Hall - curriculum Developer, Librarian, former middle school teacher, and 2019 American Library Association Emerging Leader - to learn more about these unsung heroes and how their work to inspire a love for reading, connects the school community in some very important ways. Follow Corey Hall, Ph.D. on Social Media: Twitter: @rchallway Instagram: @library_doc It’s more than books! Check out these resources: STEM Education Works Catalog: https://stemeducationworks.com/catalog/#p=1Makerspaces in Libraries: http://www.ala.org/pla/resources/tools/technology/makerspacesMakerspaces/Learning Commons: https://knowledgequest.aasl.org/category/blogs/maker/Developing Inclusive Learners and Citizens: Activity Guide and Framework https://standards.aasl.org/project/inclusive/2020 State of America’s Libraries Report: http://www.ala.org/news/sites/ala.org.news/files/content/State-of-Americas-Libraries-2020-web.pdf STEM Education Works Resources:Twitter: @STEMEduWorks Instagram: @stemeducationworksWebsite: www.stemeducationworks.comSubscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

4/7/21 • 38:04

Racism shows up everywhere and we are beginning to acknowledge how that impacts different groups, but most importantly we're starting to see the benefits of working collectively to address racism. As we work together to end marginalization and discrimination, we must remember that the AAPI struggle fits into the larger push for a more just and anti-racist world. This requires each of us to work across racial and cultural groups to end oppression, racism, colorism, and xenophobia targeted at any individual or group of people. How do we build that capacity? How can we support the Asian and Pacific Islander community during this time?We sat down with history educators Angela Lee, Karalee Wong Nakatsuka, Stacy Yung, and Virginia Nguyen, to discuss how we might combat hate, acknowledge hurt, engage in healing, and cultivate hope as we support our Asian and Pacific Islander family, friends, students, and colleagues.Links For Continued Learning:Educate to Empower from Stacy and Virginia: https://linktr.ee/edu_to_empowerAnti-Asian Violence Resources compiled by Healthcare Alliance for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Employee Resource Group at Vanderbilt University Medical Center: https://anti-asianviolenceresources.carrd.co/Anti-AAPI Racism Resources compiled by Mass General Hospital Cross-Cultural Student Wellness Center: https://www.mghstudentwellness.org/racismVideo by Historian Erika Lee on the Long History of Xenophobia in the US https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=NuflY5IDb9Y&feature=youtu.beEducator Resources from PBS’ documentary “Asian Americans” https://mass.pbslearningmedia.org/collection/asian-americans-pbs/Hollaback! Bystander Intervention Training to stop anti-Asian/American and xenophobic harassment https://www.ihollaback.org/bystanderintervention/ This Is What No One Tells You About Being Asian In America In 2021 https://www.huffpost.com/entry/asian-hate-crimes-2021-covid_n_602c00e8c5b6c95056f3dd41?ncid=tweetlnkushpmg00000067Follow Our Guests On Social Media:Karalee @historyfrogVirginia @VirginiaHNguyenStacy @stacyyungAngela @mrshistoryleeSubscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

3/31/21 • 61:44

Social emotional learning (SEL) is the process of learning how to use the feedback our emotions provide us to connect with other people or to navigate social situations. We hear a lot about using social emotional skills with children, but SEL is great for adults too! We sat down with Dr. Lorea Martínez, SEL activist, educator, and researcher; and author of Teaching with the HEART in Mind. In this episode, you’ll find answers to questions like: How can adults continue their emotional growth journey through the entirety of life? How might we leverage social emotional learning to build rigorous curriculum and instruction and more equitable learning spaces? How can parents connect with their children through social emotional learning?GET A FREE E-BOOK COPY OF Teaching with the HEART in Mind: Go to www.loreamartinez.com Mention the Let’s K12 Better podcastReview the book*Offer good for the first 5 people to reach out to Dr. Martínez  Connect with Dr. Martínez on social media and her website: Twitter: @loreamartFacebook: loreamartinezSELWebsite: loreamartinez.comBook:  https://amzn.to/3bg95RkRead more about social emotional learning via the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) - https://casel.org/what-is-sel/Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterMail!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

3/24/21 • 47:18

What is intersectional tech? How does our identity bump up against the unspoken community norms in gaming and other online spaces? How do we combat harassment online, whether we experience it or not? In our interview with Dr. Kishonna Gray, her biggest fan Naima sits down with her to unpack what Intersectional Tech is and what it can do to democratize the digital space and make it safer for marginalized identities. More on Dr. Gray's work!Kishonna Gray website: http://www.kishonnagray.com/Social Media: @KishonnaGrayFollow the hashtags:#IntersectionalTech #EquityInGaming #POCinPlay #BlackGirlGamers Learn more about intersectionality!Muriel Tramis - The First Black Female Game Designer https://youtu.be/rHM0U-IBqxcKimberlé Crenshaw’s TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/kimberle_crenshaw_the_urgency_of_intersectionality?language=en The Intersectionality Wars (Vox): https://www.vox.com/the-highlight/2019/5/20/18542843/intersectionality-conservatism-law-race-gender-discriminationLearn more about why we need to build more inclusive online spaces:The State of Online Harassment (Pew Research Center) https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2021/01/13/the-state-of-online-harassment/ Online Harassment (Colorlines) https://www.colorlines.com/tags/online-harassment The Video Game Industry Diversity Problem (The Guardian) https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/mar/15/video-game-industry-diversity-problem-women-non-white-people  Diversity in the Gaming Industry is Not Good (Mashable) https://mashable.com/2018/01/09/video-game-diversity/  Gaming star Ninja sparked controversy with his statements on kids and racism. It's not his first time in the hot seat. https://www.insider.com/ninja-interview-controversy-twitch-streamer-tyler-blevins-history-2021-1Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterNewsletter!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

3/9/21 • 71:20

EXCUSE OUR  AUDIO ERROR. WE JUST UPDATED THE EPISODE. It may take time for it to update on all platforms.Minstrelsy was an American theatrical genre present from the end of the Civil War to the early parts of the 1900s that placed white performers in the comedic enactment of racial stereotypes about Black people. Today, people are so turned off by Blackface that they’re not willing to delve into the reason why it is considered offensive in the first place... and we haven’t learned from our past. Blackface isn’t dead. In this episode, we discuss the perceptions of Black people in the media; how we have discussions about challenging historical practices (that still persist today); and Spike Lee’s movie Bamboozled.WE COULD NOT COVER EVERYTHING in this episode. There was no way. We didn’t have enough time to talk about images, photographs, and so many other stories… like the recent renaming of the Aunt Jemima pancake mix. The Aunt Jemima pancake mix was named after "Old Aunt Jemima," an 1875 song from a minstrel show that featured performers in blackface who wore aprons and bandana headbands. Read about Aunt Jemima’s name change here.Though some might find this topic  "challenging" or "uncomfortable", living with racial stereotypes is also challenging and uncomfortable. This is a conversation worth having. We recommend that parents consider that younger children (0-7) may not be able to understand some of the themes discussed in this episode.  It is however important that if kids are online they are often exposed to racist content and concepts and that should always be discussed.Resources for learning more about the American tradition of Blackface:Are your kids ready to watch? CommonSense Media Overview of Bamboozled:  https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/bamboozled A Brief Guide to 21st Century Blackface by Aisha Harris https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/09/25/opinion/blackface-tv-movies-race.html Garvey's Roblox Video on Blackface: https://youtu.be/BfO_ZK0Kvj8 NMAAHC https://nmaahc.si.edu/blog-post/blackface-birth-american-stereotype How the History of Blackface is Rooted in Racism via History.com https://www.history.com/news/blackface-history-racism-origins Forms of Variety Theatre via Library of Congress: https://memory.loc.gov/ammem/vshtml/vsforms.htmlImages of Blackface via Library of Congress search: https://www.loc.gov/search/?in=&q=Blackface&new=true&st= Family Discussion Questions:What is the difference between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation?How do the stories that others tell about us help or hinder us? How do the images we see, influence the way in which we think about other people and their culture?Why should we have discussions about blackface and digital blackface?Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterNewsletter!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

2/11/21 • 47:48

February is Black History Month! Black History Month started as an effort by Carter G. Woodson and Jesse E. Moorland in the early 20th century to celebrate and research accomplishments and contributions by people of African descent. Join us at the kitchen table for a family discussion about Black History Month. We can’t speak for all Black people, but we hope that this conversation inspires some thoughts about how one family interprets their Black experience.Need resources? Check out the Black History Month toolkit we created to help families and educators begin their exploration of Black history and culture: https://www.momofallcapes.com/black-history-month-toolkit.htmlBooks and movies mentioned during this episode:Woke Gaming by Dr. Kishonna GraySpirit of Intimacy by Sobonfu SomeThe Hate U Give by Angie ThomasAntebellum (Horror/Thriller Movie, R)The Souls of Black Folk by W. E. B. Du BoisStamped by Jason Reynolds, Ibram X. KendiBamboozled by Spike LeeSister Outsider by Audre LordeWe Want To Do More Than Survive by Dr. Bettina LoveFrom Columbus to Castro by Eric WilliamsFamily Discussion Questions:What does BHM mean to you?Even though we would rather see Black History and the history of all people of color integrated into our history classes beyond a  highlighted box on the side, why is it still important to celebrate this month? What can this lead to? How can white and non-black people of color better honor black culture and black history?Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterNewsletter!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

2/4/21 • 52:14

How are you going to pursue your passion this year?We are celebrating the start of season 2 of the Let’s K12 Better podcast all month with the What’s Your Why -a series on exploring motivation and the imperfect journey to your authentic self. We hope you join us on January 27th for a LIVE show community discussion on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter on finding our authentic self.“Everyone has a recording device in their pocket” so why wait for the media to tell your story? In this episode, we sit down with Clement Townsend, former sports journalist, author of “How to Become a Broadcasting Star” and the founder of Broadcasting Career Mentor (BCM) who shares with us why each of us can and should be storytellers.Learn more about Clement’s work:www.videojournalismpro.comConnect with Clement on social media:LinkedIn: Clement TownsendFacebook: CTownsendTVInstagram: CTownsendTVTwitter: ClementTV_Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/LetsK12BetterNewsletter!*Love our podcast? Rate. Review. Share!Support the show

1/27/21 • 34:12