School Discipline
Statues Are Only One Kind of Monument to White Supremacy
Every year, I ask my students to identify phenomena in our world that are both imagined and real. In other words, what are some things that: Have not always existed? Have or can change? Society could...
equity
We All Must Call Out Inequitable Grading Practices
Chicago students demonstrated extraordinary character and resilience during the pandemic crisis transitioning from traditional classroom learning experiences to remote learning practically overnight....
COVID-19
COVID Changed Everything About My Classroom
I cried as I set up my classroom this year. This was no dainty, politely fighting-back-tears kind of cry. It was a violent, sobbing, heaving cry that started as an ache in my chest and climbed its...
equity
Kamala Harris Just Made Leadership Real for Girls and Women in Schools Everywhere
Although the teaching profession is female dominated, many positions above school level are held by men. We see this in administration, at the district level, and our superintendents across the...
COVID-19
I Desperately Want to Get Back to School, But My Students' Safety Is My First Priority Right Now
I desperately want to return to school in the fall and be with my kids. In the most non-melodramatic, non-trivial way possible—I am lost without them. I imagine it’s somewhat similar to how...
Teaching
Advocating for My Students Means Calling Out Racist Statements From Educators
I have done a lot of self-reflection over the last few weeks. I am angry with myself. I, who pride myself on being culturally competent, feel like a fraud. Why? Because I was not doing enough. The...