The Edupurist Podcast: Recent Episodes
Raymond Ankrum
Ray Ankrum, Edupurist analyses educational outcomes for black and brown kids, while calling out injustices that occur in education.
The Edupurist podcast will also showcase and highlight the bright spots in public schools.
Through interviews with special guests, as well as Ray’s analysis of educational issues, prepare yourselves for a ride into addressing issues in education that affect our kids.
Ray brings you education as he sees it. He opens himself up to criticism as well as opens himself up to learning from others.
The Edupurist podcast will appeal to difference-makers in Edu.
In this engaging podcast episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael De Sousa, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for empowering parents. Dr. De Sousa shares insights, strategies, and personal anecdotes about parenting, education, and parents’ critical role in their child’s learning journey.
This thought-provoking episode of The Edupurist Podcast delves into the heart of America’s divisions. Join us as we engage in a candid and lengthy conversation with a friend who staunchly supports former President Donald Trump.
Our discussion covers several critical topics:
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Migrant Attack in Times Square:
- We dissect the recent incident involving NYPD police officers and migrants in Times Square. What led to this clash, and how can we address the underlying issues?
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Trump’s Legacy:
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Our Trump-supporting guest shares their perspective on the 45th president’s impact on the nation. From policy decisions to rhetoric, we explore the nuances.
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Border Security:
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As the United States grapples with immigration challenges, we discuss strategies for securing our borders. Walls, technology, or humanitarian approaches—what works best?
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Civil Dialogue Amid Division:
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In a polarized country, maintaining civil discourse is essential. We tackle the tough questions, seeking common ground while respecting differing viewpoints.
Join us for an honest, respectful, and sometimes heated exchange. Because in a nation as diverse as ours, dialogue remains our most potent tool for understanding and progress.
The Edupurist Podcast: Where education meets real-world conversations. Subscribe now and be part of the dialogue! 🎙️🇺🇸
In this episode, I talk about the importance of a balanced diet for kids based on a recent viral video of a kid throwing up from eating #Takis. I also talk about other issues pertinent to the development of historically marginalized communities.
This Edupurist podcast episode features a group of passionate women from Memphis discussing the issues with traditional school grading systems. They highlight the disconnect between report card grades and a child's learning level, emphasizing the need for parents to be more informed. They also discuss the impact of low literacy rates on children, particularly those involved in the juvenile justice system. The women stress the importance of building relationships with students and parents and the need for educators to communicate clearly and engage families. They advocate for a shift in focus from just grades to fostering a love of learning, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The discussion also touches upon community involvement, leadership, and the accountability of both parents and educators in ensuring a better future for children.
This Episode of the Edupurist podcast discusses the new FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) rollout. The host and guest talk about the simplification of the FAFSA form, the technical issues with its rollout, and its impact on students, specifically those from low-income backgrounds. They address concerns about the timeline for students to make informed decisions and the potential delays in accessing state aid. They also discuss the increased competition for historically marginalized students applying to HBCUs and HSIs due to the SCOTUS decision. The podcast provides recommendations for the federal government to improve the FAFSA process and urges students to start the application process early and seek assistance from professionals or organizations.
In the video, Dr. Ray Ankrum interviews a high school senior named Jah’mere. Jah’mere shares his exciting news of being accepted into Howard University for the fall 2024 semester. He discusses his heritage as both African-American and Native American and talks about how his experience at Riverhead Charter School has helped shape him. Jah’mere discusses his SAT score, his decision to attend Howard University over an Ivy League school, and his passion for Elementary Education. He also shares his experiences working at McDonald's and Starbucks and his plans to pursue a career in education policy. Jah’mere reflects on the significance of seeing black men as teachers and the importance of experiencing different cultures at Howard University.
This episode of the Edupurist features a discussion with dual-enrolled high school/ college students from Riverhead Charter School/Suffolk Community College about their experiences with college classes. They talk about the differences between high school and college classes, noting that they are more academically challenging and offer more freedom and control over their education. They also discuss the benefits of an early college program, including exploring different classes. The students share their preferences for more minor, interactive types over large lecture halls and discuss study techniques they have found effective, such as Cornell notes and discussing class material with friends. Additionally, they highlight the benefits of 8 AM classes for productivity. The students express a sense of preparation and gratitude for the opportunities provided, and their teacher emphasizes the importance of being ready for college-level courses.
Please join this riveting conversation with Bibb Hubbard, founder and Executive Director of Learning Heroes, and some of our first RCS Senior class. The discussion highlights the importance of effective communication between parents, teachers, and students to ensure academic success. They discuss the issue of inflated grades and how it can hinder students' progress. The conversation also touches on the role of parents in advocating for their children's education and the importance of setting high expectations. They also share their experiences with mentorship programs and the positive impact they can have on students' academic performance. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for trust, open communication, and support within the education system.
In this video, a group of high schoolers and their school superintendent discuss esports. They explain that esports is the competitive aspect of gaming, where players strive to become professionals in specific video games and compete against other teams. The students talk about their experience with Rocket League, a game similar to soccer but played with cars. They mention their rankings and progress in esports competitions to break into the top 10. They discuss their gaming systems, such as Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, and the potential for scholarships and professional opportunities in esports. The students also mention the importance of teamwork and communication in playing as a team. They discuss how they balance their schoolwork and esports practice. Finally, they encourage those interested in esports to form a team, practice regularly, learn from more experienced players, and seek coaching opportunities.
In this episode of The Edupurist Podcast, host Ray Ankrum engages in a thought-provoking conversation with K. Chase Patterson, one of the founders of the State of Black Learning Initiative. Together, they delve into the current state of Black learning in 2023 and explore the challenges, developments, and initiatives to address the persistent inequities within the education system.Chase Patterson, a passionate educator committed to equality, shares his journey and the inspiration behind creating the State of Black Learning Initiative. As an advocate for change, Chase sheds light on the key issues he has observed since the initiative's inception and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to bridge the achievement gap between Black students and their white counterparts.Ray and Chase discuss the critical importance of representation and diversity among educators, highlighting the significance of having role models who understand and can relate to the experiences of Black students. They explore the initiatives undertaken by the State of Black Learning Initiative, including policy advocacy, community partnerships, and resource provision, to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.Throughout the episode, Ray and Chase share success stories and inspiring examples of initiatives that have positively impacted Black students' education. From culturally responsive teaching practices to mentorship programs, they showcase how these interventions have empowered students, boosted their academic performance, and encouraged them to reach higher goals.Join Ray Ankrum and K. Chase Patterson as they delve into the State of Black Learning 2023, shedding light on the progress made, the challenges that persist, and the collective efforts needed to drive meaningful change in education for Black students. This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and anyone dedicated to fostering equity and empowerment in our education system.
In this episode of Edupurist, Ray sits down with Jeanne Allen, founder, and CEO of the Center for Education Reform, to discuss her thoughts on the current state of education in the United States and her vision for the future. Jeanne has been a leading voice in the education reform movement for over three decades and has worked tirelessly to create a more innovative, responsive, and effective education system. We begin by discussing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education. Jeanne shares her thoughts on how the pandemic has exposed longstanding inequities in education and highlighted the need for more flexibility and choice for students and families. We also discuss the role of technology in education and how it can be used to improve student outcomes.Next, we delve into Jeanne's vision for the future of education. She emphasizes the importance of empowering parents and students to make choices that best suit their needs and notes that the traditional, one-size-fits-all approach to teaching is outdated. We also discuss the need for more innovation in education, including new schooling models and alternative credentialing systems.Finally, we discuss the political landscape of education reform and the challenges advocates face in advancing their agenda. Jeanne shares her insights on building coalitions across the political spectrum and the importance of engaging with policymakers and stakeholders at all levels.
In this thought-provoking episode of The Edupurist podcast, your host, Ray Ankrum, engages in a compelling conversation with Steven Colon, CEO of Bottom Line, on the controversial topic of affirmative action and its impact on college access for marginalized students.Affirmative action policies have long been the subject of intense debate, with proponents arguing that they must address marginalized communities' historical disadvantages. At the same time, opponents claim they perpetuate unfair advantages or reverse discrimination. Steven Colon, a leading advocate for educational equity, explores these contentious issues and delves into the broader implications of meritocracy in our society.To provide further context, we highly recommend reading Steven Colon's eye-opening article, "The Supreme Court Just Revealed What We Already Know: Meritocracy is a Myth," published in The Hechinger Report. This insightful piece challenges the long-standing belief that success in education and beyond is solely determined by individual merit, shedding light on systemic barriers that hinder equal opportunities for all students.Join us as Ray Ankrum and Steven Colon engage in a thought-provoking dialogue, examining the merits and drawbacks of affirmative action, discussing the importance of college access for marginalized students, and exploring potential solutions to bridge the educational gap. This episode promises to challenge preconceived notions, provoke critical thinking, and inspire action toward a more inclusive and equitable education system.Read Steven Colon's article, "The Supreme Court Just Revealed What We Already Know: Meritocracy is a Myth," here: https://hechingerreport.org/opinion-the-supreme-court-just-revealed-what-we-already-know-meritocracy-is-a-myth/
In this episode of The Edupurist podcast, join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Recy Benjamin Dunn, a prominent figure in the education landscape. Recy's story is about passion, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in education.
Ray sits down with Recy Benjamin Dunn, who shares his remarkable transition from serving in the New York City Department of Education (NYC DOE) to assuming the CEO role at Ascend Public Charter Schools in Brooklyn, NY. With a wealth of experience, Recy provides unique insights into the challenges and opportunities of leading a charter school network.
During the interview, Recy discusses his motivations behind joining the field of education and his experiences working within the NYC DOE. He sheds light on the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including moving from a traditional public school system to the charter school sector. Recy reflects on the impact he aimed to make as a teacher and administrator and how those aspirations led him to take on a leadership role at Ascend.
As the conversation progresses, Recy shares his vision for Ascend Public Charter Schools and the innovative approaches they employ to promote student success. He elaborates on charter schools' unique challenges in providing quality education and how Ascend addresses these challenges head-on. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the strategies, programs, and philosophies that have contributed to the growth and success of Ascend under Recy's leadership.
Throughout the episode, Recy discusses the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in education. He discusses the efforts made by Ascend to create an inclusive learning environment that meets the diverse needs of its students and the broader community.
Please tune in to this episode of The Edupurist podcast and join us as we explore Recy Benjamin Dunn's remarkable journey from a dedicated educator in the NYC DOE to Ascend Public Charter Schools CEO. Discover the transformative power of education and the incredible impact one individual can make in shaping the lives of students and the future of education.
Dr. Childs:
Join us for an eye-opening conversation on the latest episode of The Edupurist podcast as we delve into the critical topic of empowering marginalized students in mathematics. In this episode, we are honored to have Dr. Kristopher J. Childs, a leading expert in mathematics education, advocate for classroom equity.
In "The Math Ain't Mathin'," Dr. Childs highlights the challenges marginalized students face when mastering mathematics. Drawing on extensive research and personal experiences, he reveals the systemic barriers and biases that hinder their progress in this crucial subject.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Childs offers insights into the unique struggles that marginalized students face within the mathematics education system. He discusses how cultural background, socioeconomic status, and limited resource access can impact their learning experiences and self-confidence.
Moreover, Dr. Childs shares practical strategies and innovative approaches that educators and schools can implement to foster a more inclusive and empowering mathematics curriculum. From culturally responsive teaching methods to dismantling stereotypes, he provides practical advice for creating an environment where all students can thrive and succeed in mathematics.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of equity in mathematics education and discover how they can become agents of change within their classrooms and communities. Dr. Childs emphasizes the need to challenge traditional notions of mathematical ability and redefine success to ensure that marginalized students are given the tools and support they need to excel.
"The Math Ain't Mathin'" is an inspiring and thought-provoking episode that explores mathematics's critical role in marginalized students' lives. Whether you are an educator, parent, or advocate for educational equity, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to promote a more inclusive and empowering mathematics education for all students.
Please tune in to The Edupurist podcast and join us on this transformative journey toward mathematics excellence for marginalized students.
On this episode of The Edupurist podcast, join our host as they engage in a thought-provoking conversation with the renowned education leader, author, and advocate, Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall. Get ready to delve into the empowering world of education and instructional leadership as we explore the critical insights from Marshall's groundbreaking book, "Understanding Your Instructional Power."
Education is more than just imparting knowledge; it is about fostering growth, cultivating critical thinking, and empowering students to reach their full potential. In her book, Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall challenges educators to reflect on their instructional practices and embrace their unique power to shape their students' lives positively.
Throughout this episode, Dr. Marshall shares her wealth of expertise on instructional power, drawing from her extensive experience working with educators, administrators, and policymakers. She explores the critical components of effective teaching and provides practical strategies for creating a student-centered learning environment that promotes engagement, motivation, and academic success.
Join us as we discuss the transformative role of equity and cultural responsiveness in education and how educators can leverage their instructional power to bridge achievement gaps and dismantle systemic barriers that hinder student progress. Dr. Marshall offers valuable insights into fostering inclusivity, honoring diverse perspectives, and creating a classroom climate that values and respects every learner.
Furthermore, we explore the importance of educator self-reflection and continuous professional growth. Dr. Marshall shares her perspective on cultivating a growth mindset, embracing innovative teaching methodologies, and leveraging technology to enhance instruction and meet the evolving needs of students in the 21st century.
Whether you are an educator, administrator, or education enthusiast, this episode of The Edupurist podcast will inspire and empower you to tap into your instructional power and make a lasting impact on the lives of your students. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Tanji Reed Marshall and discover the keys to understanding and maximizing your instructional power.
Tune in to this episode of The Edupurist podcast and unlock the secrets to becoming an adequate, compassionate, and transformative educator who can shape the future of education and empower the next generation.
Ray interviews Kevin George, the director of LSU Laboratory School. They discuss various topics, including George's background and experience, students' success at the school, the importance of teacher advocacy and high expectations, the integration of arts into the curriculum, and plans for the school. George emphasizes the value of teacher expertise and professional development and the need to focus on improving instruction. He also highlights the school's academic and athletic achievements and commitment to creating a supportive and challenging learning environment.
Ray interviews Nina Rees, the President and CEO of the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, about the importance and future of charter schools. Nina shares her journey and passion for charter schools, emphasizing that most parents want access to better schools for their children and that charter schools provide that opportunity. She also addresses the opposition and misconceptions surrounding charter schools, highlighting their accountability and that parents actively choose to enroll their children in these schools. Nina believes that collaboration between charter and traditional public schools is essential and emphasizes the need for flexible school schedules, leveraging technology, and focusing on critical thinking skills to prepare students for the future. She acknowledges the challenges the charter school sector faces but expresses optimism, citing the growing momentum, legislative support, and demand for charter schools. Nina also invites viewers to attend the upcoming National Charter Schools Conference and shares her thoughts on the state's most ripe for charter school expansion. She encourages people to follow her on Twitter and engage in advocacy work through the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools.
Host Ray Ankrum discusses various topics. First, he talks about the impact of cell phones and social media on children, highlighting the negative aspects and the importance of monitoring what kids are exposed to. Ray also mentions the issue of students using cell phones for harmful activities, leading to consequences and the involvement of authorities. The speaker emphasizes the need for parents to be accountable for their children's actions and to restrict cell phone usage if necessary.
Next, Ray discusses a policy in Tennessee that holds back third-grade students who fail a standardized test. While acknowledging the importance of grade-level proficiency, the speaker criticizes the procedure, especially considering the learning loss caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. They suggest a more comprehensive approach to assessing students' abilities and addressing their needs.
The video then shifts to discussing an incident at Success Academy, a charter school, where a student with ADHD had numerous emergency calls made about them. The speaker points out the need for proper support and intervention for students with special needs and criticizes the narrative that judges all charter schools based on the actions of one.
Lastly, the speaker shares a personal story of being unfairly treated and judged based on negative information found online during a job search. They empathize with Marlon Ball, a principal who faced a similar situation, and urge employers to consider candidates’ merit rather than relying on negative headlines.
Overall, the speaker addresses the importance of children’s responsible use of technology, the flaws in specific educational policies, the need for appropriate support for students with special needs, and the impact of online reputation on career opportunities.
The host, Ray Ankrum, Sr., interviews Dr. Monique, a school superintendent, about her trajectory and challenges in the superintendent's seat. Dr. Monique emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting the community and the need to listen to teachers, parents, and students. She talks about her district’s success measures, including student achievement and the quality of the learning environment. Dr. Monique also advises aspiring superintendents, highlighting the importance of knowing one's why and ensuring family support. She discusses the changes she has seen in education, such as the focus on social-emotional learning and the challenges related to diversity and inclusion. The video concludes with Dr. Monique's final thoughts on listening to children and giving them space to share their thoughts and experiences.
In this episode, we are thrilled to have Sonia Park, CEO of the Diverse Charter Schools Coalition, as our guest. The coalition is a national nonprofit organization that supports the development and growth of high-quality charter schools that serve diverse communities.
During the podcast, we will discuss the importance of diversity in education and how charter schools can promote equity and inclusion. We will also explore charter schools' challenges in achieving this goal and the coalition's strategies to address them.
My guest today is Jill Shahen, co-founder of Empire Charter Consultants, a firm specializing in helping schools navigate the complex process of starting and running charter schools. Today, we will discuss some of the challenges and opportunities facing charter schools in New York, particularly about authorizers and the issue of preferential treatment.
In this episode of the Edupurist Podcast, the host interviews Adonica Duggan, CEO of the Baton Rouge Alliance for Students. The conversation centers around the organization's efforts to advocate for educational equity and access for all students in the Baton Rouge area.
Duggan discusses the Alliance's focus on addressing the achievement gap between students of different races and socioeconomic backgrounds. She highlights the importance of providing students with resources and support to ensure they have equal opportunities to succeed.
The discussion also delves into the Alliance's efforts to engage parents and community members in the education process. Duggan stresses the importance of building strong partnerships between schools, families, and community organizations to create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Throughout the episode, Duggan shares examples of the Alliance's work, including their efforts to provide mentorship and tutoring programs and their advocacy for policy changes that support educational equity.
Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the challenges facing students in the Baton Rouge area and the critical work being done by the Baton Rouge Alliance for Students to address these issues.
In this episode, we speak with Bibb Hubbard, founder and president of Learning Heroes, about her new report on parents' perception of their children's academic progress. We delve into the findings, discuss the reasons behind the disconnect between parents' perceptions and reality, and explore how educators can better communicate with parents to ensure their children are on track to meet grade-level expectations.
We're discussing loan entities' challenges when navigating the charter school scene, particularly in single-site charter schools. Charter schools are publicly funded schools that operate independently of traditional public schools. They are granted greater autonomy in exchange for increased accountability for student achievement. Charter schools are often seen as a way to provide families with more educational options and to promote innovation in education. One type of charter school is the single-site charter school, which operates a single school site rather than a network of schools. While single-site charter schools can effectively provide education in specific communities, they can also present unique challenges for lone entities.
Today's episode is all about how school boards operate. We'll be discussing the different methods that school boards engage with the community, and we'll also be giving some tips on how to make the most of your time as a school board member. For a school board to be effective, it must be engaged with the community. School boards can use various methods to engage with the community; each method has benefits and drawbacks.
In this podcast we explore how coding can help you win in your career. We look at how coding can help you communicate better, problem solve more effectively, and create better software. We also explore how coding can help you stand out in the job market and increase your chances of getting the job you want.
In this episode, we do a deep dive into some career decisions made against coach that Black men face on a daily basis in K-12 spaces.
In this episode, I chop it up with Uncle Jeff about police brutality, and how the trauma that he faced in 1989 still resonates in many cases today. We also unpack how the system can be leveraged against you to get outcomes that hurt Black Men.
Morning Message, I wanted to give you all some content on issues that are in the media. What better way to do so, than doing it w/ a Good Morning!
Doing a podcast solo takes a lot of work and energy. I'm here for the challenge. Pull up as I discuss a myriad of issues that impact our community.
In this episode, we talk about all things Detroit, and how to put Black and Brown kids in the best positions to win.
In this episode, we discuss National Hispanic Heritage Month. Maritza Guridy, a bi-lingual guru gives tips on how all educators should engage parents of Latino descent.
In this episode we go on a journey deep down in Memphis, to capture the soul of the country as I interview Memphis Lift about parent engagement. This episode was what I needed to refill my cup for a purposeful school year.
There's a stigma on mental health in minoritized communities, so we wanted to take some time to unpack. Shout out to Dr. Ono Evaraye for pulling up.
In this episode, I chop it up with Dr. Nadia Lopez about self-care and ensuring you're taking care of your mentals.
In this episode I got to talk with Dr. Annette Anderson about the role higher ed plays in teacher and leader development.
Great conversation about New Orleans Charter Schools and their impact on the National conversation.
In this episode I go one on one with Dr. Charlene Reid. We talk system management, and what it takes to lead a CMO.
The OG's come through and in true fashion we have real talk about the current state of public education.
In this episode we look at the possible backlash from consistent attacks on Black women vying for the Ed Sec cabinet position. #ProtectBlackWomen
I had an opportunity to speak with some charter school parents with the hopes of dispelling myths about school choice. Listen to these parents electrify the airwaves as the describe why they choose charter schools.
In this episode I go one on one w/ Jen. She shares her horrible interactions w/ school staff as she fiercely advocates for Special Education services for her son. It begs to question what parents with less agency have to deal w/ while advocating for their children. Jen also gives tips on what your ask should be when advocating for students. This was heartbreaking to hear, but exciting to capture.
In this episode, we talk Big labor, and Education Sec. We had a really intense conversations about who needs to show up for students and families. The ending is a doozy.
In this episode we discuss teachers, are they amenable to critique, or are the beyond reproach? Check it out and see where we landed.
In this episode we explore the intentionality of those that pursue doctoral degrees. Have you ever wondered about the struggles? This episode capture the struggles and the nuance associated with the road too a doctorate.
In this episode we discuss how schools can make themselves more amenable to the needs of students and parents. We had a real great conversation about what parents can do to activate their agency in schools. I recommend school leaders share this episode with their parents.
In this episode we do a deep dive into how to support new teachers in the profession. By talking practical strategies, as well as acknowledging that teachers are often unprepared for their roles, we have a real conversation on how we can support teachers.
In this episode Ray solicits the help of some young teachers to discuss strategies to engage students and families. Dr. Chevella Wilson lends a hand as the resident expert, so relax and have fun with this one. It's professional development.
In Season 3 Episode 1 Ray sets the tone with some heavy hitter guests to discuss K-12 literacy selection and implementation.
Season three will be filled with surprise guests, and tons of great conversation.
Shout out to Dr. Rob, Dr. van Belle, and Jasmine Lane for coming to kick it w/ me.
W/ a thoughtful crew of educators we take a deep dive into the stigmas associated with Special Education in the Black community.
Members of the 8 Black Hands patreon group, and current school leaders chop it up about what it takes to lead a school.
I got to speak with 8 black hands patreon members about what it takes to move from a C teacher to an A teacher.
Building on my Leaders to learn from serious, I had the opportunity to sit and learn from Rictor Craig. Mr. Craig and I completed Master's degrees together at The Morgan State University. It was great kicking it with an old friend. I have been a fan of Mr. Craig's work for years. It was amazing to capture his growth as a leader. Check out this interview and enjoy.
If you pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. in the Spring of 1999 or any years before or after, you'd know that Edward Sauls Jr. is a larger than life personality with a heart of gold. In this episode, we walk through his career trajectory from a substitute teacher to now a building principal. I am so proud of this dude. This is an amazing story centered around perseverance. In light of what's currently going on in the world, I needed this episode. The energy alone has me E-N-T-H-U-S-E-D. To be able to learn from this guy was inspiring. Please listen and share. 99-4-Ever.
All educators should be able to identify with the terminology "Life Long Learners." Using this as a pretext, I've decided to interview 5-10 Leaders that I want to learn from over the next month and a half. These interviews will highlight some phenomenal leaders that stand and deliver for Black and Brown students nationwide. My first guest is Dr. Paul Miller, principal and CEO of Greentech High School, a charter school located in Albany, NY. Dr. Miller is doing an amazing job in a high poverty, high crime area of the Capitol City. It was a pleasure highlighting Dr. Miller and his research based strategies that have transformed his school. Enjoy!
A Long Island Zoology teacher does his annual "Monkey See, Monkey Do" powerpoint, not taking into account the current racial climate in the United States. Dozier and I debate about consequences of the teacher's decision, tenure and how to build agency in Black students. We also talk about the merits of the lawsuit filed by the parents of the students. This is the first episode of Season 2 of the Edupurist Pod. New Equipment, New Vibes.
Follow me on twitter- @theedupuristpod; @Mr_Ankrum; @8BlackHands1
Part two of the series The Grumpy Ole Men, "Send the Lifeboats." In this episode David and Tyrone go off about status quo education and the lack of motivation for folks to improve EDU. This episode is a no holds barred conversation centered around improving EDU for the nation's most vulnerable students, I take a backseat and learn from the OG's. I am luck to be in a position to learn from two of the nation's best advocates for quality EDU for Black students. ENJOY!
In this episode, two OG's in Ed-reform David Hardy and Tyrone Mowatt stop by to talk about public education. In this no holds barred conversation, they talk about ways to be innovative and take risks as school leaders, by using innovative ways to reach Black and Brown students and families. Mr. Mowatt expands on his theory of sending "lifeboats" to save our students. Mr. Hardy expands on what quality should look like in Philly and beyond. They boss me around the whole show, but I'm humbled by the opportunity to learn from two of the best. Enjoy!
Special Guest Ms. Sheleah Harris (Memphis, Tn) and I discuss equity and access in the K-12 space. Taking note from feedback provided by peers, we open up the space to talk more about good schools, both traditional public schools, as well as public charter schools. This was an important conversation, because many of my conversations are pro-charter because that is the current space that I occupy. Ms. Harris, with her passion for quality education for all, reminded me of the fun that I had as a public school teacher in Baltimore City Public Schools. A huge shout out to Ms. Harris for her philanthropic work, and for everything she does for students in Memphis. Dope Show!
On this episode, Ray and Ono (Director of Everything @ Morehouse College) talk all things college. The two have a no holds barred conversation centered around college and its importance to eradicating generation poverty. The two have an introspective lens that allow them to analyze the college experience through experiences at Predominately White Institutions (PWI's), as well as from the perspective of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). Shout out to Ono from coming through to chop it up!
Riding off of the viral tweet from teacher extraordinaire Steven Gupton, a High School Emergency Medical Science and Law and Justice teacher from North Carolina. Mr. Gupton also moonlights as an EMT to help offset the low wages paid by the local school district. he maintains he does it for the love and not the money, an admirable trait in this profession. We were joined by the OG from the "Hands Team", Sharif El-Mekki. This episode encapsulates great conversation centered around Professional Dress, and what that looks like for folks. It also clears some things up for folks that may have misinterpreted what Mr. Gupton said and meant in his tweet. As always, stay tuned as we continue to give you live, current, and relatable content.
After 100 Spicey tweets on (7/4) between the ed reform folks and Dr. Keith Benson (Camden), I wanted to bring Dr. Benson on the show to discuss his animus towards education reform and corporate charter schools. He immediately agreed, and was super responsive. Dr. Cole felt a way about being dragged in the middle of smoke that he didn't solicit. Cooler heads prevailed and the two had a conversation that both sides (Ed Reform and Anti-Ed Reform) can be proud of (facilitated by yours truly). What I learned from both of these gentlemen in this spirited dialogue is that they both are passionate about their communities, and they both want Black and Brown Kids to learn. Although Dr. Benson was not converted into an Ed Reformer, his message and his truth is equally important to hear. Both participants are scholars and gentlemen for allowing me to probe, and for us to have a great conversation centered around our differences, and how we can meet in the middle on some things.
In this episode, I talk with Dr. Latrice Chattin, and Mrs. Genevieve Byrd-Robinson. Both ladies are school leaders with amazing ideas on how to address Summer Learning loss. I enjoyed my time with these ladies, they brought the smoke!
Much todo has been made about the Netflix series "When They See Us." In Episode one of the Edupurist Podcast, we jump right in and discuss how black and brown students and families were impacted then and now. Education or a lack thereof serves central theme of why communities of color are disproportionately discriminated against by law enforcement. The guest on the show knock it out of the park with their personal stories regarding the "system."