SEL in EDU

Discover what it means to harness the transformative power of social and emotional learning (SEL) in personal well-being and racial equity in education. Our conversation with Kelisa Wing, a trailblazer in advocating for justice and inclusion, unpacks the redefined competencies of SEL laid out by CASEL. Together, we navigate the intricate connections between hope, resilience, and empathy, especially amidst the challenges that people of color face in leadership roles. Kelisa, inspired by Dr. Cornel West, sheds light on the philosophy of being a 'prisoner of hope,' a poignant reflection as we examine the landscape of educational well-being and the influence of adult SEL on future generations.We delve into self-love, authenticity, and nurturing deep connections with others, even in passing encounters, and how these moments can lead to unity and understanding. We confront the complexities of gender and racial biases, particularly in the scrutiny placed on leaders and scholars. The discussions pave the way for contemplating marginalized individuals' pressures in authoritative positions and the imperative of fostering an equitable environment for all.In the final stretch of our episode, we grapple with the current state of higher education and the mounting battles against DEI initiatives. We stand in solidarity with those at the front lines, defending the principles of free thought and empathy against legislative onslaughts. Reflecting on the historical contexts of resistance and empowerment, we rekindle the flame of hope and the potential for positive change. As we close this chapter of our dialogue with Kelisa, we invite our listeners to embrace joy in the minutiae, stand firm in the face of adversity, and take away from our discussion an enriched sense of purpose and humanity.Episode Resourcesces:Connect with Kelisa via her website and InstagramRead Kelisa’s books:Racial Justice in America seriesConversationsWeeds & Seeds: How to Stay Positive in the Midst of Life’s StormsPromises and Possibilities: Dismantling the School to Prison PipelineIf I Could: Lessons for Navigating an Unjust WorldBecoming a Globally Competent Teacher as a contributing author

Imagine the profound impact a single educator can have, not just on a classroom but on an entire community. De'Shawn Washington, fourth-grade inclusion teacher and Massachusetts Teacher of the Year for 2024, joins us to share his transformative educational philosophy integrating social and emotional learning with academic success. His approach has shaped students into compassionate change-makers, fostering a classroom environment where trust and accountability are as fundamental as the ABCs. De'Shawn's passion for empowering students resonates throughout our conversation as he reflects on the significance of his achievements and the inspiration he provides as the first black male to receive this prestigious honor in Massachusetts.Our discussion takes an inspiring turn, highlighting the indispensable role of black male educators in the Massachusetts educational system, representing less than 2% of the teacher population. De'Shawn sheds light on the notable increase in student performance when children are taught by black men, emphasizing their presence as essential at every level of education. De'Shawn illustrates how educators can cultivate culturally inclusive classrooms through heartfelt anecdotes about mentorship and community building. We also delve into his innovative classroom strategies, ranging from restorative practices to adopting an alligator as a class mascot, all aimed at enhancing the joy and connectedness among his students.To our listeners, we issue a rallying cry to champion educators like De'Shawn, who are at the vanguard of nurturing social and emotional growth. We remind you to kindle your commitment to education, and we eagerly anticipate the following conversation that promises to enlighten and inspire.EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with De’Shawn via his website, LinkedIn, and YouTube.Check out these resources shared by De’Shawn:How Empowered Black Educators Feel Seen, Heard, and Valued in the Teacher Evaluation ProcessThe Inclusion of Race - A Holistic Examination: How an Absence of Race is an Absence of CultureDivision for Emotional and Behavioral Health newsletter

Embrace the spirit of new beginnings with the wisdom of Allison Rodman, author of "Still Learning: Strengthening Professional and Organizational Capacity." She guides us through realigning education paths to combat burnout and stay true to our calling, blending personal growth with professional development. This episode promises to illuminate the congruence between our deepest purposes and everyday practices, a crucial harmony for educators striving to maintain their passion in adversity.Imagine a classroom where growth isn't solely for the students but equally for the teachers, where setting meaningful goals transforms not just individual educators but entire teams. Through a heartfelt discussion on collective efficacy and the transformative power of reflection, we uncover strategies to protect our time and encourage self-care, ensuring a balanced journey through the demanding world of education. "Filtering with fences" emerges as a method to preserve our dedication to the craft without compromising our well-being. Join us as we share resources and practices that enable us to "stand strong in the SEL light."EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Allie on her Website, X,  Instagram, and FacebookPurchase her book Still Learning and read her ASCD articles.

Uncover the heartbeat of social and emotional learning (SEL) as we celebrate International Women's Day and SEL Day, where our panelists, including Dr. Chaunte Garrett, Heather Lageman, Dr. Leigh Alley, Maureen Chapman, James Simons, and Dr. Damion Lewis, unwrap the gift of SEL in education. We engage in stories that underscore the influence of remarkable women and the power of nurturing connections that make for a robust learning environment. Their journeys reveal the impactful ways SEL can be woven into the fabric of educational experiences, radiating joy and hope.This episode is a treasure trove of strategies and insights into creating communities that thrive on strong relationships and resilience. We discuss the concept of "Square Squads," a group of trusted individuals who support our growth and delve into practical tools like the Emotions Wheel and "You Matter Manifesto," designed to foster self-reflection and fortitude among educators and learners alike. Our conversations illuminate the daily "SEL hacks" that families can adopt, and we explore how simple, mindful practices can catalyze positive change in educational settings and with families and communities.As we wrap up this invigorating dialogue, the journey of SEL in education takes center stage, highlighting its indispensable role in today's learning landscapes. We discuss the need for collaboration and understanding the diverse pathways to success, from advocacy for children to integrating SEL in workplaces. Inspired by Andra Day's "Rise Up," we leave with a rallying cry for perseverance and hope, urging our listeners to be the torchbearers of love, truth, and liberation in their communities.PODCAST HOSTS:Craig Aarons-Martin - CEO, CCM Educational GroupDr. Krista Leh - Chief Education Officer, Resonance Educational ConsultingSEL PANEL GUESTS:Dr. Leigh Alley - Former Executive Director, Maine ASCD; Assistant Professor of Education, University of Maine at AugustaMaureen Chapman - Co-Director, cor creative partnersDr. Chaunte Garrett - CEO, ELLE Education Services Heather Lageman - Executive Director, Maryland ASCDDr. Damion Lewis - LewLearns-Professional Learning & Education Consulting James Simons - Co-Director, cor creative partnersEPISODE RESOURCES:Youniversity - Joy DropBrene Brown - Square SquadChoose2Matter - ManifestoCNVC- Feelings inventoryMarc Brackett - Mood Meter Yale University - RULER toolsASCD Webinar - Reclamining the Mantel of SEL 

Have you ever stepped into a nurturing space that felt like a sanctuary? Join us as Nikolas Tsamoutalidis, an SEL practitioner with an impressive track record in student support, walks us through the life-changing initiatives of the Wellness Center at Bethlehem Area High School in Southeastern Pennsylvania. His dedication to trauma-informed education and creating systems that enable students to thrive is nothing short of inspirational. Together, we uncover the transformative programs that support academic excellence and cultivate resilience, trust, and emotional safety among students.Imagine a school where students are greeted with hope and love with every interaction. Through compelling conversations with Niko, we bring light to the impressive data that showcases an increase in students' hope and academic performance, with an astounding 97% able to trust an adult within the school. These are not just numbers; they represent real lives touched by the incredible work of educators who are genuine 'hope dealers.' This episode celebrates the educators' role in transforming schools into havens for well-being and emotional security.But it's not just the students who need nurturing; educators carry the weight of their responsibilities, often absorbing the trauma of those they help. Niko shares the essential role of self-care practices and community engagement in fostering a holistic educational ecosystem. The chapter on love and empowerment is a heartfelt reminder of the profound impact we can make through every encounter. As we wrap up this enlightening conversation, we invite you to join us in championing wellness initiatives, reminding everyone to be the beacon of light and positivity in the lives of our youth, primarily through the challenging seasons.EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Niko on LinkedIn and X.Learn more about the Wellness Center via K12 Dive Magazine.

In this episode, we're joined by Jamillah Parker, whose social work expertise revolutionizes how we approach teaching and learning in education. Undoubtedly, the rhythm of our daily lives can benefit from a sprinkle of mindfulness, a practice that transcends cultural and religious divides. Today, we unpack the art of bringing serenity into the classroom and home, highlighting the simplicity of deep breathing exercises and their power to calm and center our youngest learners. Through engaging anecdotes and relatable activities, we'll guide you on respectfully introducing these practices to children and their families, fostering a dialogue of understanding and acceptance, and setting the stage for our upcoming workshop to soothe the edges of anxiety.The episode concludes with an ode to self-care and the relentless pursuit of accurate information. We share the personal self-care rituals that keep social-emotional wellness afloat, from experimenting in the kitchen to the soothing melodies of music. So, wrap yourself in the warmth of this conversation that celebrates the love and commitment we hold dear in our professional and personal lives.EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Jamillah on LinkedIn and  X.

In this episode of SELinEDU, we discuss the vital intersection of mental health and education, the stress and anxiety that burden today's youth, and the essential strategies for building resilience. With his deep roots in education and advocacy, Justin Rubenstein sheds light on the stressors plaguing our children, highlighting the importance of demystifying mental health and fortifying our young with the skills to overcome life's obstacles. We trade insights on the delicate balance of stress as a motivator versus a barrier, sharing tangible strategies for managing mental wellness and underscoring educators' critical role in nurturing a supportive learning environment.Weaving through the chapters of our exchange, we celebrate the power of play and the concept of front-loading in education. Reminiscing about childhood games that unconsciously equipped us with life skills, we underscore the lasting value of these experiences in fostering growth. As we wrap up, we extend a heartfelt call to action for collective support of our youth, spotlighting the indispensable role of Social Emotional Learning within our communities. EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Justin via Psychology Today, Twitter and Instagram.Read his publications:Rubenstein, J.S. (2023, February 1). From student to leader, the influence of brain science. Professional Learning Partnerships. From Student to Leader: The Influence of Brain Science | Professional Learning Partnerships. Christner, R. W., Heim, M., Gipe, K., Mennuti, R.B., & Rubenstein, J. Facilitating mental health services in schools: Universal, targeted, and interventions. In T.M. Lionetti, E. Snyder, & R.W. Christner (Eds.), A practical guide to developing competencies in school psychology. New York: Springer Publishing. Christner, R. W., & Rubenstein, J. (2006, February). Factors associated with separation anxiety disorder following World Trade Center attacks. Communique, 34(5).

As we embrace the 2024 year, SELinEDU continues its third season with a spark that ignites the crucial conversations around inclusion, belonging, and empathy in classrooms today. We're thrilled to sit down with the remarkable Hedreich Nichols, whose voice rises above the din to champion educational equity and amplify the whispers of student voices into roars. Her works - from the insightful 'Small Bites' podcast to writings that tackle systemic inequalities - infuse our kickoff month with a robust palette of perspectives. Crucial to this season's narrative is recognizing and navigating societal blind spots. Hedreich's personal experiences springboard into discussions about the nuances of professional appearance, the complexities of raising children in a world with evidence of discrimination, and the unmatched power of love and courage as championed by Maya Angelou and Brene Brown. Through our candid talk, Hedreich clarifies the importance of these courageous conversations in creating a better world where every individual's story is heard and valued.Our shared journey is not just about introspection but also about implementing actionable strategies for teaching interpersonal relationships within the school environment. We acknowledge the multifaceted role of social and emotional learning (SEL), understanding that academic success is closely linked with our ability to comprehend and empathize with each other. From the practical application of conflict resolution methods to encouraging student-led discussions, our conversation serves as a beacon for educators aiming to cultivate the next generation of considerate, empathetic leaders. As we conclude this episode, we sincerely wish for a transformative new year filled with the bravery to confront our blind spots and the insight to guide others through theirs.EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Hedreich via her website, X, Instagram, and Small Bites Podcast.Read her book, Finding Your Blind Spot, and Edutopia articles.

In this episode of SELinEDU, we're talking with Dr. Carrie Garippa about how SEL, paired with restorative practices, fosters empathy, nurtures curiosity, and strengthens relationships. Our chat with Carrie provides insights into a dynamic, student-centric educational approach that fuels learning with curiosity and relationships. As we strive to build relationships with students, let's consider the norm of banning technology in classrooms. We debate the pros and cons while stressing the need to teach responsible usage. Our discussion takes a serious turn as we tackle microaggressions, bullying, and the pivotal role of SEL in confronting these issues. Making science engaging and relevant also grabs the spotlight as we explore tailoring the curriculum to pique students' interests and stimulate curiosity. Finally, we turn to the hotly debated issue of homework and its place in the educational process. Engage with a spirited discussion with a teacher who shares their unique approach to managing homework. We also confront the elephant in the room - privilege and accessibility in education, particularly in the pandemic-ridden world. The power of connections, leadership challenges, and mental well-being in education are other crucial topics we address. Learning from Dr. Garippa is guaranteed to leave you both informed and inspired.EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Carrie via LinkedIn.Learn more about Inform Your Community.Read one of Carrie’s AN EXPLORATORY CORRELATIONAL STUDY EXAMINING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE TEACHER'S PERCEPTION OF SCHOOL COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AND STUDENT SUCCESS IN SELECTED TITLE I HIGH SCHOOLS

Join us on a journey of discovery and connection as we recount the tales from our travel escapades. Our adventures have broadened our horizons and beautifully woven into the social and emotional tapestry of our lives. This season's curtain-raiser is brimming with stories highlighting the transformative power of cultural immersion and the bonds it fortifies. As we open up about our reflections, prepare to engage heart-to-heart on the enriching impact of traversing diverse communities and how they shape our worldview. We're bringing more of our authentic selves to these discussions, guaranteeing a season filled with invigorating guest conversations and our intimate ponderings.Feel the electric pulse of an HBCU festival in Philadelphia through our eyes and ears as we celebrate the vibrancy of inclusivity and arts. The beat of the music echoes our collective spirit, challenging societal norms and encouraging us to embrace the full spectrum of our identities. This episode weaves a narrative of acknowledging who we are, underlined by insights from artists who push the boundaries of expression, like Janelle Monáe. Listen in as we look toward creating educational spaces that support every student and anticipate special guests whose stories will resonate deeply with our SELinEDU community in the upcoming months. It's a season of growth, unity, and the shared joy of learning, with an invitation to all our listeners to contribute to this ever-expanding conversation.

As the year draws to a close, we're embracing the holiday spirit with open hearts, reflecting on the rich tapestry of our lives.  Tune in as we stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about the festive season's nostalgic magic. There's a special place in the conversation for Craig's recent wedding, a beacon of love within the black queer community, reminding us all of the importance of acceptance and the power of being truly seen. We weave through tales of childhood wonder and the affectionate gatherings that bind us, celebrating the milestones that have made this year one to remember.Turning the page to more recent history, the echoes of the pandemic linger in the lessons it taught us about our personal and professional bonds. We shed light on the illuminating chats with educational visionaries whose insights have stretched our understanding of teaching and learning. Prepare to be inspired by stories of passion in education and leadership that have the power to transform lives, and join us in applauding the milestones reached by our podcast guests who have been forces for positive change in challenging times.As we preview our upcoming year and share a holiday message with deep gratitude, we invite you to carry the torch of hope and light into the coming year.

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and social emotional learning? Join us as we chat with Lisa Pepper Satkin, a licensed psychotherapist and  Licensed Psychotherapist, a Brené Brown Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator, and the founder of Executive Therapeutic Coaching and Consulting. With an illustrious career spanning 25 years, Lisa empowers high-achieving individuals to beat negative thinking and bring about enduring change. She's also the creative force behind the free, innovative program, My Hearty Kid, designed to make social emotional learning fun for children.Lisa's journey is as fascinating as it is inspiring. Beginning with her first experience of therapy at the young age of 10, Lisa shares how she found her voice and went on to become a psychotherapist. We discuss the critical role of recognizing and encouraging children's strengths and the energy they bring to the world. We delve into a thought-provoking discussion about self-identification and healing. Lisa introduces us to the "love map" concept - a unique approach to understanding ourselves from the inside out, highlighting the power of leading with our values.As we wrap up, we learn more about Lisa's mission-driven program, My Hearty Kid, and how it nurtures a sense of safety and courage in children. Using tools like art, music, and the card game Love Big, Lisa helps children understand their emotions and encourages self-care. Her passion for assisting children to find joy and safety in the world is uplifting. EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Lisa on Instagram and FacebookVisit her websites:  www.myHeartyKid.com and www.LisaPepperSatkin.comPurchase the book Pocket Full of LOVE

Ready to explore the power of relationships and connectedness in fostering mental health in education? That's precisely what we're unpacking in this episode with our esteemed guests, Charle Peck and Dr. Cam, co-authors of the new book, The Thriving School Community. We delve into their journey of understanding why mental health issues persist in schools despite the implementation of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programs. Their insights from extensive research and experiences led them to establish this life-changing approach.Navigating the complex maze of relationships in an education setup, we highlight these connections' crucial role in student well-being. Hear from Charle and Cam on the importance of reaching out to isolated students, reintegrating them into the school culture, and how stress prevention can significantly reduce extreme cases. We also discuss the role of tangible connections between teachers, parents, and students to foster trust and security. In our final segment, we discuss teen social media use and the role of technology in forming relationships. Listen in as we stress the importance of providing teenagers with a safe space to explore new ideas and concepts and how their book, "Improving School Mental Health, The Thriving School Community Solution," is instrumental in promoting a healthy school environment. Charle and Dr. Cam share their knowledge and experience in creating safe spaces for teenagers to grow and thrive, underlining the power of relationships, connectedness, and the pivotal role of social plasticity in shaping educators' mental health. Tune in to this enlightening journey and learn about cultivating a thriving school community!EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Dr. Cam on X and Charle on X.Visit their Website and check out the Thriving School Book Study.

Have you ever wondered how to combat emotional exhaustion while fostering a positive culture in the world of education? In this episode, Tracy enlightens us on her daily rituals of meditation and early morning workouts, a routine that keeps her grounded and connected.Our discourse swiftly takes a fascinating turn towards circle work technique in the classrooms. Tracey shares her wisdom on establishing a sense of belonging amongst students and the role of restorative practices in the pursuit. We learn invaluable insights into the profound influence of circles in building communities and nurturing proactive and responsive classroom environments.In our final act, we talk about the essential role of the power of listening and explore the implementation of restorative practices and the Leader Me philosophies in supporting students' educational journeys. We leave you with Tracey's resourceful tips and the importance of positive reinforcement in classrooms. This episode is a gold mine for educators looking to strengthen community ties through social and emotional learning! EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Tracey on Twitter and InstagramLearn more about Restorative Practices and Leader In Me

Want to tap into the true magic of authenticity and the joy of day-to-day living, even in the smallest things? You're in the right place. Listen in as we chat with the dynamic duo, Maureen and James, who wear many hats as best friends, collaborators, and owners of COR Creative Partners. Their insights on integrating academic and social-emotional learning in the classroom will leave you inspired. We learn about their work, sources of joy, and a unique yet effective secret weapon (you’ll have to listen in to learn more!).The power of relationships in education is immense - they serve as a motivator and a safe haven. The episode explores the need for creating safe spaces to process feelings, vulnerability, and the often misunderstood concept of SEL. You'll be intrigued to learn how relationships can facilitate hard conversations and help maintain positivity in challenging times.As we wrap up, we deeply dive into the fusion of academics and social learning for educators. We discuss the transformative power of self-regulation tools, students' freedom to think independently, and the integral role of organization and support in education. We also don't shy away from discussing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. You'll leave with a fresh perspective on the value of effective communication, leadership skills, and the importance of self-care. EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Maureen on LinkedIn, James on LinkedInAccess tools via the COR Creative Partners website.CASEL School Guide on the Integration of SEL and Instruction

Ready to rekindle student motivation in the classroom? We're bringing you an enlightening conversation with educator and consultant Mike Anderson, who is on a mission to help teachers abroad ignite learning sparks within their students. Uncover Mike's journey in building his own business and how he balances his work and personal self-care. We'll discuss his insightful books, Tackling the Motivation Crisis and What We Say and How We Say It Matter, and plunge into the intricate challenges of school morale, climate, and student engagement.Ever wondered why some students seem less motivated? Mike Anderson dives into this conundrum and shares how teachers can help students find authentic purpose in their learning. We'll discuss the delicate dance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and Mike reveals how a classroom “do-over” can help reignite student motivation. From the 'Fresh Start Effect' to the power of pizza, we're leaving no motivation stone unturned!We'll also explore the pandemic's silver lining for teachers and students with the rapid adoption of new technology platforms. Mike offers insights into how teachers can leverage their students' tech-savviness. We will also address the elephant in the room - inequity in classrooms and how it can manifest. It's a conversation you won't want to miss, so tune in!EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Mike: website and TwitterAccess his self-paced courses and his books:Tackling the Motivation Crisis: How to Activate Student Learning Without Behavior Charts, Pizza Parties, or Other Hard-to-Quit Incentive SystemsWhat We Say and How We Say It Matter: Teacher Talk That Improves Student Learning and Behavior

What happens when a high school science teacher with nearly two decades of experience explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education? Meet Bonnie Nieves, author of Be Awesome On Purpose! Bonnie is a passionate educator leveraging AI to revamp the approach to student feedback and assessments. This episode unfolds as Bonnie shares rich insights on AI's exciting potential for teaching and learning.Imagine that AI could provide educators with a new way of looking at grading. That is precisely what Bonnie has been doing in her classroom, using AI to move away from traditional grading, thereby making assessments more equitable. It's not just about giving students scores; it's about immersive learning, and Bonnie's CARE model does just that. Learn how this innovative teacher fosters responsible AI use among her students while empowering them and engagingly assessing their learning.Bonnie also takes us on a tour of her unique teaching routine, refined with her experience of using AI. She discusses her superpower of simplifying tasks and her CARE model's essential role in achieving this. As we wrap up, Bonnie extends an invitation to connect with her on Twitter and LinkedIn and delve deeper into her work in her book, Be Awesome on Purpose. This episode is an incredible journey through the intersection of AI and education, and we can't wait for you to join us.EPISODE RESOURCES:Connect with Bonnie: Website, Twitter, and Instagram Access Bonnie's Resources:Be Awesome on Purpose: Using reflection as a tool to teach with C.A.R.E. and assess what really mattersChatGPT: Navigating the Impact of Generative AI on Education Theory and Practice

Join us as we explore technology in education with our guest, Dr. Sarah Thomas, a regional technology coordinator and the visionary behind EduMatch. Sarah's unique insight into using technology as a tool to connect educators on a global scale will leave you enlightened and inspired. We delve deep into the creation of EduMatch, its growth, and its potential for you as an educator to enrich your learning by making meaningful connections.At the heart of our discussion, we explore the exhilarating crossroads between gamification, artificial intelligence, and education. Sarah shares her hands-on experience setting up a Google site powered by Flipgrid and discusses the vital link between access to resources and equity. We touch on the power of gamification as a tool to engage and motivate students, fostering community in classrooms and among staff. The intriguing concept of the Fast Friends Protocol comes under our scope, shedding light on how it can quickly spark profound connections. Sarah emphasizes the role of digital equity in fostering collaboration among educators and shaping students' social and emotional development. We tackle the rising challenge of deep fakes, highlighting the need for quality teaching and a deep understanding of the digital space to help students navigate this tricky terrain. Listen to this riveting conversation to truly comprehend the transformative power of technology in education.EPISODE RESOURCES:Learn more about Sarah and connect with her on social media via EduMatch, Instagram, and Twitter.EduMatch websiteMidJourney: Art in the Age of Artificial Intelligence  Fast Friends Protocol based on Arthur Aron’s 36 QuestionsFrom daTeechur's Desk: How to Think OutwardlyReignite the Flames: Finding our passion and purpose for learning among the embers by Mandy FroehlichRegister for Navigating AI - a FREE conference on October 7, 2023, from 12-4 PM Eastern

Have you ever questioned how gendered rules and implicit biases shape our education system? Today, we're joined by Jason Ablin, an accomplished author and educational expert with over three decades of experience, to unpack this topic. His book, The Gender Equation in Schools, illuminates the issue of gender equity in education. During our conversation, Jason shares his journey from recognizing his biases to becoming an advocate for change.Unmasking the often overlooked challenges boys face in education, we dive into the intersection of gender, race, and education. Jason details firsthand experiences and insights, revealing how conflicting messages about identity, the miseducation of sexuality, and a lack of safe spaces amplify these challenges. Together, we explore the trend of deteriorating boys' performance in schools and the urgent need for conversations to address these pervasive issues.Jason guides us through the transformative possibilities of education when we resist gender binaries. He shares the significance of creating gender-inclusive spaces, fostering resilience, and the often underestimated potential of leveraging students' strengths to liberate them from societal norms. Our conversation is a call to arms for educators, caregivers, and all constituents in education to disrupt conventional systems and work towards a more equitable future. Tune in for a critical and empowering discussion that may redefine your perspective on gender equity in education.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:Connect with Jason via his website, blog, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.Get your copy of Jason’s book: The Gender Equation in Schools: How to create equity and fairness for all students

Can music truly transform our lives and the world of education? Join us in a heartfelt conversation with our inspiring guest, Sean Gaillard, a school leader, author, and podcaster, as we uncover the powerful connection between music, wellness, and authentic leadership. With his vast experience in instructional leadership, school culture, and his love of music, Sean offers valuable insights that will resonate with anyone seeking personal growth and connection.Explore the profound role of mentors, music, and leadership in shaping our lives as we dive into Sean's journey of self-discovery and growth. We also discuss how he uses his podcast to connect with fellow principals who may feel isolated and the incredible power of music as a universal language. Hear our favorite songs and the stories behind them, and be inspired to reflect on your own musical journey.Discover the importance of being your authentic self in education and how that can lead to meaningful connections with others. By the end of this episode, you'll be reminded of the importance of family, community, and self-expression - the gifts and gems in this life. So tune in and let the music play as we embark on this enlightening and soulful journey together.Episode Resources:Connect with Sean: Twitter, Instagram, Principal Liner Notes Podcast, EmailRead this book: The Pepper Effect: Tap into the Magic of Creativity, Collaboration, and Innovation