Too Dope Teachers and a Mic

141. Remixing Opportunity with DonorsChoose CEO Alix Guerrier

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 15:26:49 -0500

In this episode of Two Dope Teachers and a Mic, Gerardo sits down with Alix Guerrier, CEO of DonorsChoose, to talk about how classrooms become engines of justice when teachers are trusted with resources—and when young people are trusted with big ideas.

From robotics programs serving new immigrant students, to youth-led racial justice campaigns sparked by classroom reading groups, to hydroponic gardens blooming on school rooftops in Puerto Rico—this conversation pulls back the curtain on how creativity thrives when scarcity isn’t the dominant story.

Alix also breaks down what equity means beyond buzzwords, how data from over 90% of U.S. schools is shaping systemic insight, and why investing in kids is not just morally urgent—it’s economically undeniable.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 — Opening Question: What needs a remix in education?
05:00 — What DonorsChoose Is (and Isn’t)
12:00 — Classroom Stories that Spark Movements
30:00 — Acceleration vs. Remediation: Rethinking Learning Gaps
41:00 — What Equity Looks Like in Practice
47:00 — The Next 25 Years of DonorsChoose
52:00 — Top Five Rappers
55:00 — Closing Reflections

Links & Resources

Support Teachers & Classrooms

DonorsChoose: https://www.donorschoose.org
???? Fund real classroom needs across the U.S.

Follow DonorsChoose

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donorschoose
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/donorschoose/

Learning Resources Mentioned

Zearn Math – Acceleration-focused math equity model
https://www.zearn.org
Math Mind by Shalinee Sharma — research on accelerating learning instead of remediating gaps

140. Remixing Higher Ed: Paul Glastris on College Rankings, Democracy, and Who Higher Education Really Serves

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 18:24:59 -0500

In this in-depth conversation, Washington Monthly editor-in-chief Paul Glastris joins Gerardo to unpack how America’s obsession with elite college rankings distorts our sense of what higher education is for. From his days inside U.S. News & World Report to his years building an alternative ranking system rooted in upward mobility, research, and civic service, Glastris offers a powerful critique — and a hopeful vision for how colleges can once again serve democracy.

They dig into:

The myth of “best” colleges and how exclusivity became a badge of honor
Why schools like Fresno State and Berea College outshine Ivy League institutions in real impact
How higher ed has become a political battleground — and what’s at stake for our democracy
What vocational education really looks like when it’s not just political theater
How students, families, and educators can use data wisely and choose institutions that serve the public good

Listen if you care about:

Educational equity • Democracy • College access • First-gen students • Public policy • Media and truth-telling

Guest:

Paul Glastris, Editor-in-Chief of The Washington Monthly

Follow him on X and BlueSky: @glastris

Explore the latest college rankings at washingtonmonthly.com

Host:

Gerardo A. Muñoz — 2021 Colorado Teacher of the Year, educator, scholar, disruptor, and co-host of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic

Music by:

Kevin Adams

Links Mentioned:

Washington Monthly 2025 College Rankings: washingtonmonthly.com/college-guide
Washington Monthly Podcast

Episode Re-Release: 41. Boots Riley and the Art of Liberation

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 13:51:00 -0400

In this powerful conversation from the archives, recorded live at the NEA Racial and Social Justice Conference in Houston, Two Dope Teachers and a Mic sit down with the legendary Boots Riley — writer, director of Sorry to Bother You, frontman of The Coup, and lifelong revolutionary artist.

Six years later, Boots’ words still feel urgent. He reminds us that art isn’t a luxury — it’s a tool for liberation. From the farmworker fields of California to classrooms and stages across the country, Boots shows how creativity, organizing, and truth-telling are all part of the same struggle for justice.

Together, we explore:

How art helps us imagine freedom beyond capitalism and compliance.
The power of educators as organizers, disruptors, and culture builders.
Why movements need artists — and why artists need movements.
The difference between success and liberation, and why the latter demands community.
What it means to find your own role in the fight for a better world.

As we face new waves of censorship, economic inequality, and attacks on public education, this conversation hits harder than ever. Boots reminds us that every one of us has a place in the struggle — whether we teach, create, organize, or simply refuse to be silent.

Tune in, reflect, and ask yourself:

What is the art I bring to the movement for liberation?

Featuring: Boots Riley (@BootsRiley)

Hosts: Gerardo Muñoz (@gmunoz) & Kevin Adams

Originally recorded: NEA Racial & Social Justice Conference, Houston, TX, Summer 2019

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Too Dope Teachers and a Mic

Follow @toodopeteachers on all platforms

Support the show and our work for educational liberation at patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Throwback: Episode 102 with THE Gholdy Muhammad!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 10:50:56 -0400

Back in the wake of COVID quarantine, we were graced with the wisdom of Dr. Gholdy Muhammad!

????️ Episode 102 (Throwback): “Artist in the Industry” with Dr. Gholdy Muhammad

Originally aired in 2021 — Revisited in 2025

In this powerful conversation, Gerardo Muñoz and Kevin Adams sit down with Dr. Gholdy Muhammad, author of Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy. Together, they explore how teaching rooted in Black literary history, collectivism, and joy can transform classrooms into spaces of liberation, not compliance.

Dr. Muhammad breaks down her five pursuits of learning — identity, skills, intellectualism, criticality, and joy — and explains how these pursuits emerged from 19th-century Black literary societies that defined learning as a communal and purposeful act. The conversation bridges theory and practice, showing educators how to design lessons that humanize, empower, and center students of color.

From joyful pedagogy to abolitionist teaching, from curriculum design to hip-hop as literacy — this episode remains as relevant now as it was when first released.

???? 2025 Update

Since our original conversation, Dr. Gholdy Muhammad has continued to shape the field of equity-centered education. Now a nationally recognized keynote speaker and professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago, she has expanded her work through Unearthing Joy and new initiatives that help schools move beyond trauma-informed practices to healing-centered, joy-based learning.

In 2025, as many schools continue to navigate political attacks on culturally responsive education and Black Studies curricula, Dr. Muhammad’s message — that children of color deserve brilliance, joy, and excellence — resonates even louder. Her framework remains a beacon for educators seeking to humanize instruction in a time when educational equity is under threat.

???? Listen for:

The roots of culturally and historically responsive literacy
Why joy is an act of resistance
What “abolitionist teaching” looks like in real classrooms
How to center identity and genius in every lesson
Dr. Muhammad’s Top 5 MCs (you won’t want to miss it)

???? Learn more about Dr. Muhammad’s work: www.hillpedagogies.com

Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @GholdyM

139. From Durham to D.C.: How Students Halted a Deportation

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 19:41:00 -0400

Award-winning educator and author Bryan Christopher joins Gerardo Muñoz to share the incredible story behind his new book Stopping the Deportation Machine. From Durham, NC classrooms to the halls of Congress, students mobilized to defend a classmate from deportation — proving that student voice can stop even the biggest machine.

0:00 – Welcome

2:40 – Immigration and Identity

7:36 – Meet Bryan Christopher

9:26 – The Book: Stopping the Deportation Machine

12:38 – Durham’s Changing Landscape

19:51 – A Student Arrest Sparks Action

27:05 – Why Can’t He Graduate?

33:48 – Stopping the Machine

38:41 – Impact on Community & Students

47:12 – Lessons for Educators

51:54 – The Power of Student Voice

54:59 – Closing Thoughts

Resources Mentioned:

Enrique’s Journey by Sonia Nazario

Bryan’s blog post: When Learning Gets Personal (NCTE)

Walking Undocumented (Learning for Justice)

Connect with Bryan:

Student Paper: thepirateshook.com

X: @BryanChristo4 | IG: @bchristo4

Support Two Dope Teachers:

Patreon: patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Socials: @toodopeteachers

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 18:26:00 -0400

In this solo episode, Gerardo processes the shooting death of right wing influencer Charlie Kirk by exploring the hidden dangers of teaching debate the traditional way. Drawing on previously published writing that draws a line between traditional debate and the "own-the-libs" take-no-prisoners style of Kirk, Ben Shapiro, Jordan Peterson and others, as well as personal experience as a debate coach, he argues that when debate rewards domination over empathy, it doesn’t just distort classrooms—it fuels toxic politics and real-world violence.

138. Small Shifts, Big Impact: Sahba Rohani on Belonging, Anti-Bias Education, and Joy

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 20:56:00 -0400

In this episode of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic, Gerardo is joined by Sahba Rohani, Executive Director of Roots Connected, to dive into what it means to center belonging in schools. From her TED Talk on the power of names to her decades of work in intentionally diverse communities, Sahba shares how small shifts in mindset and practice can transform classrooms, staff culture, and whole school communities. Together, Gerardo and Sahba unpack anti-bias education as more than a curriculum add-on—it’s a lens, a practice, and a path toward joy and justice.

Show Notes

In this powerful conversation, Gerardo and Sahba explore:

The story behind Sahba’s TED Talk on names, identity, and belonging.
Why belonging isn’t “soft work”—it’s the foundation of learning and thriving.
How small shifts in practice (like reframing a simple classroom question) can have big impact.
Roots Connected’s dual process for change: internal transformation + practice shifts.
Building intentional community with students, families, and staff.
Staying grounded and persistent in the face of DEI pushback.
The radical power of joy in justice-centered education.
And of course… Sahba’s Top 5 hip hop & R&B legends (spoiler: GenX R&B family, this one’s for you).

Resources & Links:

Follow Roots Connected on Instagram and LinkedIn

Listen in for practical takeaways, mindset shifts, and a reminder that joy itself is radical.

137. Jamila Sams is Doin' it 4 the Culture with Hip-Hop SEL

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 10:26:01 -0400

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Jamila Sams—educator, visionary, and founder of We Do It 4 the Culture—to talk about the movement that’s transforming school culture through hip hop, empowerment, and equity. From classrooms to district offices, Jamila’s work helps educators center student voice, cultural relevance, and joy in learning.

We dive into her journey as the founder of this unique resource, what it means to lead with authenticity, what it means to think critically, dialogically, and with joy, and how hip hop continues to serve as a cross-generational universe of healing and liberation. Jamila shares the origin story of We Do It 4 the Culture, the real meaning of culturally responsive action, and what schools must do if they’re serious about social emotional wellness, critical thinking, and liberation.

If you’re about that life—about students, about joy, about liberation—this conversation is for you.

Plus an absolutely fire top five RIGHT HERE.

136. Growing Your Own Teachers, No Matter the Soil

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 08:32:18 -0400

One of my favorite quotes about problem-solving on a systems and institutional level is that "the answer is in the room." This means that when there are problems that need to be solved, even big ones, the person, perspective, or idea that will solve it doesn't need to be sought outside of those who know the work best.

As teacher recruitment, training, and retention remain persistent challenges to districts big and small, Grow-Your-Own programs have been developed and launched, especially in districts serving highly impacted and very diverse populations. GYO takes many forms, including but not limited to cadet programs and para-to-teacher efforts.

Enter Dr. Jeff Geihs, longtime educator, leader, and thought leader. Working with the Silver State Education Foundation as Executive Director, Dr. Giehs and team have brought together GYO and concurrent enrollment opportunities for the next generation of teachers, especially students of color.

Dr. Geihs joined Gerardo for an exciting and motivational conversation. To learn more, follow us on Patreon!

Email: toodopeteachers@gmail.com

136. Growing Your Own Teachers, No Matter the Soil with Dr. Jeff Geihs

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 07:57:55 -0400

One of my favorite quotes about problem-solving on a systems and institutional level is that “the answer is in the room.” This means that when there are problems that need to be solved, even big ones, the person, perspective, or idea that will solve it doesn’t need to be sought outside of those who know the work best.

Dr. Geihs joined Gerardo for an exciting and motivational conversation. To learn more, follow us on Patreon!

Support the podcast: www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers

136. Growing Your Own Teachers, No Matter the Soil with Dr. Jeff Geihs

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 21:55:00 -0400

Dr. Geihs joined Gerardo for an exciting and motivational conversation. To learn more, follow us on Patreon.

Email: toodopeteachers@gmail.com

Chicanologues 09. Chicagoland’s Own Sofia González

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 09:36:28 -0500

Back in October, Sofia González, teacher, thinker, writer, speaker and activist and Gerardo finally found time for this interview. This was prior to the 2024 election and all that followed. What ensued was a great conversation–provocative, humorous, and energetic. As we brace ourselves to face another four years of anxiety, frustration, fear, and state-encouraged violence, this conversation remains a reminder that the struggle is truly beautiful, and full of opportunities for all of us to engage differently, as the people we are. To quote the great poet Audre Lorde, “We are the ones we have been waiting for,” exemplified by Ms. G.

Sofia is 2019 teacher of the year with the National Society of High School Scholars, nonprofit leader for organization Project 214, and education activist from the Chicagoland area. She is a sought-after public speaker regarding the state of education who is known for her cutting-edge presentations and dynamic illustrations with a passion that’s infectious. A High School teacher, 15-year veteran, teacher leader, and alum in a variety of spaces like Fulbright, Latinos for Education, Latinx Education Collaborative-Storytellers for Change, and Urban Leaders Fellowship, Sofia’s passion and energy towards education equity remains a leading voice for the 21st-century classroom and beyond.

Chicanologues 09. Chicagoland's Own Sofia González

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:55:00 -0500

Sofia Gonzalez is 2019 teacher of the year with the National Society of High School Scholars, nonprofit leader for organization Project 214, and education activist from the Chicagoland area. She is a sought-after public speaker regarding the state of education who is known for her cutting-edge presentations and dynamic illustrations with a passion that’s infectious. A High School teacher, 15-year veteran, teacher leader, and alum in a variety of spaces like Fulbright, Latinos for Education, Latinx Education Collaborative-Storytellers for Change, and Urban Leaders Fellowship, Sofia's passion and energy towards education equity remains a leading voice for the 21st-century classroom and beyond.

Sofia believes that education is a fundamental right and not a privilege for the select few, and aims to lead from her Latina identity. Her recent focus has been taking her seat at decision-making tables and traveling the country as a keynote speaker where she can amplify the lived experiences of the Latino community for the sake of social change and informing education policy.

Plan your financial future with Alex and Tori!

Support the podcast on Patreon!

Link to episode 184 of Have You Heard

135. OG Episode, or Kev's Triumphant Return!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 12:28:58 -0500

About two years ago, Kevin and Gerardo’s paths diverged. Facing burnout, Gerardo left the classroom to manage aspiring and new educator programs at the central office level, and Kevin became an assistant principal. The last two years have been challenging for us both. Questions arose as to whether the podcast would last. What would happen now that Too Dope Teachers were no longer in the classroom? Could the fellas ever ever ever coordinate calendars?

It has been a challenge, but this season, we bring to you “OG Episodes” that bring us back to our roots: no guests, nothing flashy, just a couple of educators remixing the conversation on race, power, and education.

This episode was supposed to be out prior to the announcement of school closures, but instead we are bringing it after. Check out our emergency episode, a conversation with two students from one of the closing schools for an in-depth look.

We hope you enjoy this episode, whether to get needed affirmation and levity as you continue your important classroom work, or if you are considering other options, while still wanting to remain in education.

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Support the pod!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:27:00 -0500

Citing declining enrollment, demographic shifts, and building under-use as primary factors, Denver Public Schools superintendent Dr. Alex Marrero announced his proposal to close or consolidate a number of schools. On school that is proposed for consolidation is the Denver Center for International Studies at Baker, where we met. It is a school that we feel profound affection for and belief in.

In this emergency episode, we speak with DCIS students Sophia and Camila, who are helping to organize their peers and families to protest the re-structuring of their school.

Very frequently, students are the last to know about decisions and policies that directly impact them. Oftentimes, across American public education, "student voice" is trivialized, downplayed, dismissed, and disrespected. If you go back to our emergency episode with students in the opening months of the COVID-19 pandemic, you will see that students were not included in that discussion either. This is, unfortunately, not a problem unique to this district, it is everywhere.

Student voice matters. Yesterday, today, and always.

134. Fatimah Basir's Big Fish Energy

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:03:10 -0400

When Fatimah Basir reached out to the podcast to promote her book, I’m a Big Fish, Not a Guppy, we had to know more. Not only is this energetic and motivating educator imaginative, creative, and joyful, she also sets a powerful example for how to take on important work for youth and communities. Miss B knows her purpose, knows what she is up against, but more importantly, she draws strength from her family, friends and beloved NYC community.

Miss B has a captivating story, contagious energy, and a powerful message. Listen and enjoy!

Buy the book!

Follow Miss Bee!

Plan your future by visiting our sponsors, Tori and Alex!

Support the Podcast on Patreon!

133. Elect Sunshine! John Arthur Runs for Utah State Board of Education

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 12 Oct 2024 19:42:00 -0400

John "Sunshine" Arthur is really like this.

Always smiling, always joyful, this passionate and dedicated teacher has continued to push forward for students and communities from which they come.

A veteran teacher, John has always sought ways to elevate educational opportunities and equity in his community and beyond. Even as he runs for the Utah state board of education, John humanizes his opponent and the people of his state. This despite a ballot initiative pushing for increased privatization, which presents a threat to young people who would MOST benefit from a powerful and uplifting educational experience.

In this episode, John will share with you his journey, his commitment to students, and ways you can support public education for ALL.

support the podcast!

Visit our sponsors!

132. The Fight to Stop Vouchers with Dr. Josh Cowen's Book The Privateers

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 05 Oct 2024 10:41:17 -0400

Vouchers are violence.

Privatization is violence.

Failure to see that school privatization is a tool of Christian Nationalism and White Supremacy is deadly. To the future prospects of the students they exploit for flash-in-the-pan snake oil pedagogies. To the very possibility of civil society.

Dr. Josh Cowen joins me for episode 132 of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic to discuss the peril of school vouchers and the destruction they have wrought upon education and society. He discusses his new book, The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers.

Whatever you believe about vouchers, let me assure you, after reading this book, and talking with Dr. Cowen…it’s worse. Worse than you can imagine. The outcomes are awful, and the deception is dystopian. You’ll see why so many of us see privatization and all it’s cousins as a slippery slope that ultimately will destroy public education. And while there are abstract and unproven arguments about the unfulfilled promise of public education, there is still a promise.

It is now October. Many of you in Colorado, Kentucky, and Nebraska have this choice to make, and those of you in fourteen other states have a lot of work to get these repealed. This episode is a hard listen, but essential for anyone who wants to see systemic justice in education.

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Support the podcast!

Buy The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers

ProPublica Report Cited during interview

131. ARISE: Elena Aguilar and Humanizing, Transformational Humanity (and Coaching)

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 11:32:18 -0400

This week, Gerardo is joined by the eminent and brilliant Elena Aguilar, scholar of professional development and leadership! In this, Elena’s second visit to the show, she discusses her most recent coaching book Arise: The Art of Transformational Coaching. Elena shares her purpose, identities, and processes of writing, shedding a bright light on both the art of coaching, but also the art of writing itself. She shares her perspectives on both the value of writing that comes from academia as well as from the people.

In this episode, Elena also shows us why her intuitive and human-centered approach is so powerful. An unexpected moment of vulnerability arises, and she receives it with heart and profound empathy.

And. Stay tuned. An in-person conversation may be in the future.

Hispanic Heritage Month: From now until October 15, if you sign up for Patreon at the $10/month level, you will receive our series of Hispanic Heritage stickers!

Subscribe to Elena’s Bright Morning podcast!

Purchase the book, Arise: The Art of Transformational Coaching and other powerful writings of Elena Aguilar.

Visit our sponsors, Tori and Alex, and plan your financial future no matter your income!

131. ARISE: Elena Aguilar and Humanizing, Transformational Humanity (and Coaching)

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 11:30:42 -0400

In this episode, Elena also shows us why her intuitive and human-centered approach is so powerful. An unexpected moment of vulnerability arises, and she receives it with heart and profound empathy.

And. Stay tuned. An in-person conversation may be in the future.

Hispanic Heritage Month: From now until October 15, if you sign up for Patreon at the $10/month level, you will receive our series of Hispanic Heritage stickers!

Subscribe to Elena’s Bright Morning podcast!

Purchase the book, Arise: The Art of Transformational Coaching and other powerful writings of Elena Aguilar.

Visit our sponsors, Tori and Alex, and plan your financial future no matter your income!

130. Daphne Draws Data Author Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic, and storytelling with data

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:41:00 -0400

As the 2024-25 school year kicks off across the nation, math teachers, students, and parents of the students face a familiar foe: self-confidence in mathematics. According to a Gallup poll before the COVID-19 pandemic, over 40% of students aged 13-17 reported that they were "struggling" or "not proficient" in math. But no one knows this reality more than math teachers themselves.

Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic, herself a mathematician and data analyst, has spent her career teaching adults to tell impactful and motivational stories using data. She has published professional books on the subject, but comes on the TooDope Teachers and a Mic podcast to share her latest book, which could change the tide for young people in our classrooms. Daphne Draws Data is a wonderful book on using data to tell stories. Cole joins Gerardo to kick off SEASON 10 of the podcast.

Visit our sponsors, Alex and Tori!

Support. the podcast on Patreon!

Check out and order Daphne Draws Data!

Find old episodes of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic!

129. Denver Public Schools "Minister of Information" Dr. Richard Charles

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 23:35:03 -0500

Dr. Richard Charles has probably forgotten more about mathematics and technology than most of us will ever know.

This brilliant scholar and change-maker of Trinidadian and Venezuelan heritage joined Gerardo for a conversation that is only the tip of the iceberg. An authentically intellectual and curious learner, Dr. Charles represents most what what we dream of being in school district leadership. He is philosophical and a problem-solver, and his passion for prime numbers is only out-matched by his determination that ALL DPS students have access to the best education available to them.

Dr. Charles shares his passion for ways in which generative AI can support us at all levels of education. You will feel a little out of your depth on this episode, but stick with it. There is much to glean from this conversation.

Support the podcast!

Visit out sponsors at Cetera Investors, where Tori and Alex can help. you plan for the future!

128. The State of Education with Amie Baca-Oehlert

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 23:27:58 -0500

The state of public education is...tough right now. But it isn't because of teachers or students. It's because our systems have spent too much time overthinking the challenges we face, when in reality, it's all about respect, resources, and professionalism.

Colorado Education Association present Amie Baca-Oehlert joins Gerardo and Kev to discuss the state of education. She names the harsh realities but also demonstrates the simple ways that we can right this ship for ALL kids.

Read the state of education report here!

Plan your financial future with our sponsors, Cetera Investors!

Support the podcast on Patreon! www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Chicanologues 08. The Vibes and Brilliance of Zandra Jo Galván, ALAS Superintendent of the Year

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 10:13:00 -0500

Zandra Jo Galván joins me for a fun and inspirational conversation on this week's Chicanologues! Celebrated by the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS), Zandra Jo now leads the school district that raised her, Greenfield Union in the Central Coast region of California.

Growing up the youngest child of Mexican immigrants, Zandra Jo was inspired to become a teacher by her older sister. At just 10 years old, Zandra Jo knew she wanted to take this journey. When she was elevated to serve as superintendent of the district that educated her, 90% raza, she became everything that a leader should be: joyous, engaged, motivational, and creative.

But she is not simply a "big energy" leader. She is a problem-solver who acts on data in meaningful ways. She shares with us her biggest successes, and reminds us that educational justice that is culturally sustaining and empowering is possible from the superintendent's office.

Oh, and her top five is absolutely next-level.

Support the podcast at patreon.com/toodopeteachers (money is helpful in navigating capitalism).

Visit our sponsors, Tori and Alex! https://toriandalex.ceterainvestors.com/toodope.

Chicanologues 08. Cielito Lindo Books Founder Leticia Ordáz and Sharing NUESTRAS Historias

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:26:00 -0500

Gerardo is joined this week with a brilliant and passionate storyteller.

Leticia Ordaz is a Publisher, Award-Winning Bilingual Children’s Book Author, Literacy Advocate, and Television News Anchor/Reporter.

Leticia is the founder of the bilingual publishing house Cielito Lindo Books and a ten-time award-winning children’s book author at the International Latino Book Awards, the largest Latino Book Awards in the world.

A proud Mexican-American, Leticia is an Emmy Award-winning anchor/reporter in Sacramento, California, where she’s covered some of the biggest stories in the country.

Leticia is the author of The Adventures of Mr. Macaw, That Girl on TV Could Be Me! The Journey of a Latina News Anchor, Mr. Macaw’s Paleta Adventure, The Carousel King and the Space Mission, Mr. Macaw Lost in the Big City, and 2024 release Super Peanut and the Big Bully: The Power of Kindness.

As a literacy ambassador, she is excited to share bilingual stories with children around the world. The mother of two young Latino boys is working hard to break barriers and change statistics that currently show only 7 percent of American children’s books feature Latinx characters or subjects, and only 10 percent of authors and illustrators in the US are Latinx.

She recently teamed up with the Antelope Valley Union High School District to publish the Anthology, We Come From Greatness. The heartfelt project shared the stories of 88 migrant youth from Los Angeles County and transformed students into published authors. All of the proceeds benefit a scholarship program for the district.

When Leticia is not on the news being a voice for her community, she is busy visiting schools, hospitals, and orphanages to spread the love of reading in English and Spanish.

Reach out to bring her to your school for a dynamic assembly.

CielitoLindoBooks.com, CielitoLindoBooks@gmail.com

Twitter: @LeticiaOrdazTV, @CielitoLindoBks LinkedIn: Leticia Ordaz

Facebook: @CielitoLindoBooks.

Instagram: @LeticiaOrdazTV, @CielitoLindoBooks

127. "Belonging is the Outcome" Carney Sandoe's Kim Garner and Brandon Jacobs Discuss Forum DEIB

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 01:22:00 -0500

We are partnering with Carney, Sandoe & Associates to bring you cutting-edge insights and opportunities to learn from and with members of their communities. In today's episode, Kim Garner and Brandon Jacobs join us to discuss DEIB (the B stands for Belonging), the importance of DEIB work across all educational spaces, and the chance for folx in the Philly area to attend their Hiring Forum DEIB event this coming Friday!

Kim graduated from Suffolk University with a B.A. in International Business. She began working at Carney, Sandoe & Associates in 2000 as an Operations Associate, and became Associate Director of Operations in 2005, Director of Operations in 2006, and Director of Operations and Conferences in 2010. Kim was promoted to Managing Associate in 2012.

As Chief Operating Officer, Placement Group, Kim manages operational budget, oversees operations staff, and explores new technologies to optimize efficiency within the Placement Group. She coordinates hiring, training, and onboarding for new employees, and plans and coordinates all aspects of faculty recruitment conferences, located in cities each year across the country.

Kim has also spearheaded the development of CS&A's Women's* Institute (which held its inaugural event in 2017) which focuses on empowerment, professional and personal development, and mentorship of women in education at all stages of their careers. Kim is extremely passionate about the importance of women supporting other women and providing safe space to learn from one another.

Brandon is Practice Leader, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) Consulting Practice, Search & Consulting Services and also supports our Head of School, Key Administrator, Catholic Schools, and Diversity Leadership Search Practices. Brandon has been instrumental in growing our DEIB Search and Consulting Practices. He has worked with dozens of independent schools, colleges and universities, and education organizations, running retained searches for DEIB practitioners and leading consulting engagements around implicit bias, equitable hiring, BIPOC faculty and staff retention, and other topics.

Thanks to financial assistance from New Jersey SEEDS, a nonprofit organization that places high-achieving students from low-income families at selective day and boarding schools across the country, Brandon and his three younger brothers were able to attend The Hill School (PA). At the predominantly white boarding school, Brandon served as the first Black All-School President and, seven years following his high school graduation, would return to his alma mater to assume the dual roles of Director of Inclusion and Diversity and Student Activities Coordinator. While at The Hill School, Brandon was also Director of Student Activities, Class Dean, and Assistant Director of College Advising.

Before joining CS&A, Brandon served as the Director of Diversity and Inclusion at The Shipley School (PA) where he led the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and programs that sustained an inclusive school community and curriculum and fulfilled the School’s diversity and inclusion goals. Working closely with school administrators, he directed recruitment and retention initiatives to broaden the diversity of the student body and among faculty and staff.

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126. Stop Resisting Director and Producer donnie l. betts

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 21:59:02 -0500

I had no idea that January was National Mentoring Month, but this is perfect timing. At a critical moment in my life, donnie l. betts, legendary actor, director, playwright and filmmaker, but most importantly, mentor to so many.

I was fifteen when I met donnie, and he changed my life. He showed me that men of color from my neighborhood could be artists and movers, and that art could matter. We have remained in touch for over thirty years, and it is my profound honor to bring him and his story to you.

In this episode, you will hear how donnie came to the arts, the people he has met and learned from, and his undying conviction that art can make a difference. As in his new film, Stop Resisting, which, in the wake of unending police violence visited on Black communities in Denver and beyond. donnie continues to leverage art and stories to affect change, and he shares his passion with us.

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125. Teaching While Unapologetically Palestinian

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 07 Jan 2024 23:45:00 -0500

For nearly fourteen weeks, genocidal events have been brought upon Gaza. To be honest, we struggled with how to best show support. We are a podcast that centers Teachers of Color and issues of Human Rights and Justice for all. So we have chosen to bring you stories of Palestinian American teachers. These stories are long-form, so they defy the sound-bite 24-hour news cycle. We ask participants to tell their stories with authenticity and courage. So yeah, this episode is longer.

Amal is a teacher in California who is proud to be Palestinian. She knows that her perspective is different, living stateside and not in Gaza, which has been described as of January 7 as "uninhabitable" by the United Nations. The days drag along as Amal tries to teach and support students. The courage to teach while your world burns is something Kevin and I cannot fathom.

But know that this story has emotion, passion, and knowledge. You will learn things that have not made it into the news cycle. You will learn how one teacher sees and experiences this horror.

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124. Dopemas Time is Here!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 23 Dec 2023 18:43:00 -0500

Gerardo and Kevin are here to accompany you through this holiday season! Whether you celebrate or not, we gotchu, and we hope to bring some affirmation and encouragement to you in these times that defy description.

As you know, Kevin has moved into school leadership, halfway through his first year as an assistant principal. He shares the highs, the lows, and reflects on being positioned to make a greater impact for the students in his community. Gerardo shares the hard-earned lessons of sixteen months as a central office manager, and shares the encouragement he has found in his work.

But ya boys haven't forgotten what it's like to be a classroom teacher. Teaching is our mother tongue, and no matter what other jobs we learn and become proficient, conversant, even fluent in, our hearts and minds will always be those of teachers. We hope we can encourage you to rest, reflect, and appreciate yourself.

Plus we share our holiday wish lists.

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123. "An Island Beyond Yourself" Adam Gacka and Nkanga Nsa Discuss TEACHER film

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 23 Dec 2023 16:20:00 -0500

It is no secret that the teaching profession has become increasingly challenging, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. For those of us who taught before and through the pandemic, it was never easy. Always challenging, always demanding, always underpaid. Kevin and I have both left classroom roles (although being an administrator is also difficult), and we are both still a little, what's the word, surprised? When folx choose teaching in these times.

Filmmaker Adam Gacka, founder of Production House in Chicago, was hired to make a promotional video for the ambitious Chicago Teacher Residency and during the course of filming, got to know many of the teachers in the school. In particular, as he learned about Nkanga Nsa, a resident in the program, he felt that her story needed to be shared. So the result was Teacher, a film that would document her journey through her residency, as well as that of the community around her. As Adam boldly declares, saving our teachers will save our democracy.

Adam and Nkanga join us for an in-depth conversation on one teacher's experience, the ongoing work to ensure that our American teaching corps better reflect children in most classrooms, and the ambitious dream to become "an island beyond oneself" in Nkanga's words.

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122. Teaching Palestine as a Social Justice Movement with Abeer Shinnawi

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 17 Dec 2023 21:36:00 -0500

For over two months, violence has raged on the Gaza Strip. Since the world snapped to attention on October 7, just under 20,000 Palestinians and 1300 Israelis (around 400 IDF soldiers) have died in the so-called "Israel-Hamas War" a carefully curated framing of the violence. This is an awful moment, and has led a number of experts to name the actions visited upon Palestinians as genocidal.

Kevin and Gerardo join the conversation. Perhaps later than some would hope. But we wanted to learn, listen, and elevate before seizing a social media moment.

Enter Abeer Shinnawi, our friend, a Palestinian teacher in the United States. Abeer calls upon us to teach the Palestinian struggle as a social justice/civil rights movement. She shares with us the privilege she has by living in the United States, but the pain she feels, as the Palestinian experience has been largely minimized, demonized, and erased. But in the midst of it all, she still believes that teachers can make a difference, to help students see that there is a civil rights imperative at work here.

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121. John Arthur is still my SUNSHINE

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 22:49:11 -0400

This episode was supposed to come out during AANHSAPI Heritage Month (Asian-American Native Hawaiian South Asian Pacific Islander) but for a host of reasons, it did not. Hear Gerardo break down his ambivalence about heritage months and why we actually decided to put the episode out.

John Arthur is the 2021 Utah Teacher of the Year, and a finalist for National Teacher of the Year for the same year. In the two years since being announced, John has found a new level of advocacy and activism, speaking out for the dignity and value of teachers and public education, students and families from marginalized and minoritized communities, and taking every opportunity to stand up for all kids.

In addition, John is sunshine personified. You cannot be in his presence without feeling his warmth. Enjoy this episode, it is full of joy and motivation.

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SUMMER (fall) REVOLUTION MIXTAPE 2023: FEARLESS+ FOUNDER DEEPALI VYAS

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 00:24:58 -0400

Deepali Vyas is the Founder and CEO of Fearless+, an EdTech platform that is on a mission to empower the younger generation. Deepali is a serial entrepreneur, advisory board member, career strategist, and executive search consultant with a recognized eye for spotting talent, rising trends and breakout business models. Deepali has over 20 years of experience in executive recruiting, having reviewed more than 100,000 resumes and placed thousands of executives in Fortune 500 companies. She has advised companies like Disney, JP Morgan, Uber, Google, IBM and the NFL to name a few.

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120. @SariBethRosenberg Doesn't Take it Personally

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 20:56:42 -0400

Gerardo met NYC teacher and social media phenomenon Sari Rosenberg at the NNSTOY conference in July. For a long time, we have followed Sari's Instagram where she posts Reels of her pushback against racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic and anti-Semitic ideas and policies that seem to be all too common in today's civic discourse. Sari, whose path into teaching was considerably more tentative than her life as a teacher-activist, has become an outspoken voice for equity, justice, and teaching history honestly.

We have a fun conversation, which includes Sari's early forays into popular music and innovative entertainment technology, and her how she really feels about the trolls and hate groups on social media platforms (spoiler: she honestly does not care), and we hear a terrific Top Five (ish)

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119. 2023 National Teacher of the Year Rebecka Peterson's MANY Good Things

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 23:25:55 -0400

This week's guest is a direct challenge to how many of us are living our education lives in 2023. Believing is hard. Optimism is something we can switch on with students, when we need to maintain our authority in the classroom, but we struggle to live in optimism. Look, we get it. Teachers are entering yet another school year of unrealistic pressure, political attacks, and dwindling capacity to teach our students and live joyfully.

Rebecka Peterson has an idea for all of us.

Rebecka Peterson, the 2023 National Teacher of the Year, is a math teacher who loves stories.

Rebecka has taught high school math classes ranging from intermediate algebra to Advanced Placement calculus, for 11 years at Union High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Amid a difficult first year of high school teaching, she found the “One Good Thing” blog. She credits daily posting there to helping her recognize the beautiful and positive experiences occurring in her classroom, which inspired her to stay in the profession. She has since contributed 1,400 posts to the blog. As Oklahoma Teacher of the Year, she has visited teachers across the state to highlight their important work through the Teachers of Oklahoma campaign.

As National Teacher of the Year, Rebecka plans to use her platform to highlight teachers’ stories of the good that’s happening in education. Teaching is a profession that affords creativity, autonomy and purpose, and Rebecka believes that highlighting the stories of joy happening in classrooms across the country will help encourage current teachers and attract new educators to the profession.

Rebecka is a proud immigrant of Swedish-Iranian descent and lived in several countries around the world as her parents traveled as medical missionaries. Her own experience with supportive teachers who celebrated her diversity and math abilities informs Rebecka’s efforts to create a supportive and accessible classroom for students. She values listening to students’ stories as a way to better understand them and elevate their voice.

Before joining the faculty at Union High School, Rebecka taught for three years at the collegiate level. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Oklahoma Wesleyan University and a master’s degree in mathematics from the University of South Dakota. She lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with her husband, Brett, and son, Jonas, and she enjoys reading, crafting and playing board games.

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2023 SUMMER REVOLUTION MIXTAPE TRACK 1: BEN FARRELL & EMBRACING GENERATIVE AI

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 20 Aug 2023 23:59:00 -0400

The 2023 Summer Revolution Mixtape is here, at last! It's late, but as friend of the podcast Marylin Zuñiga told us so many years ago, we gotta decolonize time, y'all! We know you are mostly back in the teaching game, but the time for radical imagination is always RIGHT. NOW.

The mixtape series is when we bring experimental, cutting-edge and unexpected ideas to you to consider as you enter another year guiding students. We hope to challenge and inspire you with these conversations.

Generative Artificial Intelligence, best identified through apps like ChatGPT, stands to hit education like that meteor that did the dinosaurs in, and if we aren't careful, it will do the same to us in education. So argues our guest, Ben Farrell, a principal at a school that had the audacity to embrace this terrifying technology.

Is it the pedagogical equivalent of Oppenheimer's experiment, or is it like the invention of pockets? Sorta depends on who you talk to. If you talk to Ben, he will tell you some of his school's generative AI practices, and how we may all learn from them. No spoilers, tho. Y'all gotta listen.

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Chicanologues 04. The Trailtinos' Laura Cortez

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 20 Aug 2023 23:30:00 -0400

Laura Cortez was a soccer player in Texas. Her coach required that players run track and cross country in order to maintain their fitness for the season. A self-identified tejana, she grew up with community, culture, and of course, Selena.

Having relocated to Colorado, Laura, along with Victor Fallon, formed the Trailtinos, a Latiné running collective that spans generations, experience levels, and culture. I had a chance to run with the crew, a nice 7-miler that was extremely hard without water. The conversations were incredible, and it was beautiful to see so many members of our raza prioritizing fitness, wellness, and community.

Laura joins me to discuss the formation of the Trailtinos, and the importance of community wellness.

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¿Cómo que "representation"?

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 May 2023 09:55:41 -0400

I'm angry today. As I attend meetings, webinars, read social media posts and articles that feature people with the actual power to improve the diversity (actually ESTABLISH diversity) in the teaching profession, I also see people in the same positions continually ostracize, ignore and otherwise sanction raza educators at every level of this work. It's plain to see that the system desires our faces, our surnames and our pedigrees, but not our convictions, beliefs, and humanness. And often, the agents of this process of icing out gente who truly represent the hopes, dreams, ambitions, the social and political convictions of our communities, are people who look like us, claim to be us.

We have to stop caping for a system that asks us to commit cultural, spiritual, and political self-harm. We have to have the courage to support each other, even when we have everything to gain from shutting each other down.

It's the Chicanologues, episode 3. Please subscribe!

website: www.gerardomunoz.co

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2022 Hawaii Teacher of the Year & National Finalist Whitney Aragaki plus Sub John Arthur

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 11 May 2023 23:48:34 -0400

For Asian American/Native Hawaiian/South Asian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are spotlighting the stories, the experiences, and the wholeness of AANHSAPI teachers, their histories, and the communities they serve. They are part of our teaching force, battling inequities on behalf of their students and themselves.

Whitney Aragaki (she/they) is an educator, parent, and learner from Hilo, Hawaiʻi. She supports students to learn through a lens of abundance that honors place, people and cultures. Her teaching focuses around conversations, practices and systems that sustain the intimate inter-relationship of public education, community and environment. Aragaki is the 2022 Hawaiʻi State Teacher of the Year and National Teacher of the Year Finalist. She is a National Board Certified Teacher in Adolescence and Young Adulthood Mathematics.

Check out Whitney’s writing, connect at https://www.whitneyaragaki.com/

Whitney’s socials:

Twitter: @sayuri_neko

Instagram: @mamasayuri

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118. 2022 Hawaii Teacher of the Year & National Finalist Whitney Aragaki plus Sub John Arthur

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 11 May 2023 23:48:07 -0400

Check out Whitney's writing, connect at https://www.whitneyaragaki.com/

Whitney's socials:

Twitter: @sayuri_neko

Instagram: @mamasayuri

Check out our website www.toodopeteachers.com

Support the podcast www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Throwback: 2021 AAPI Teacher Roundtable

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 08 May 2023 22:50:29 -0400

We are one week into Asian American, Native Hawaiian, South Asian and Pacific Islander heritage Month, and we thought it would be meaningful to re-releaase our roundtable interview with AANHSAPI-identifying educators from around the country. At the time of this interview, COVID-19 was raging, and the all-too-predictable hatred toward people of Asian descent as somehow culprits of the pandemic was palpable and harmful. In this episode, brave AANHSAPI teachers speak on their experiences, their pain, and their hope as they demand to be celebrated and seen.

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Throwback: 2021 AAPI Teacher Roundtable

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 05 May 2023 09:41:00 -0400

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Chicanologues 03. Cinco de mayo and a Time for Warriors

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 05 May 2023 00:10:18 -0400

Please forgive the poor audio quality. I wanted to re-record it for you but I had class late and just don’t have time this week. I will make this up to you!

Cinco de mayo can still mean something to our gente. It could be a time for warriors if we let it be.

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Chicanologues 03. Cinco de mayo and a Time for Warriors

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 05 May 2023 00:07:19 -0400

Please forgive the poor audio quality. I wanted to re-record it for you but I had class late and just don't have time this week. I will make this up to you!

Cinco de mayo can still mean something to our gente. It could be a time for warriors if we let it be.

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02. Introducing the Chicanologues!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 02 May 2023 09:41:18 -0400

As it turns out, solo podcasting is hard! While there will be guests, friends, and crews on this show, there will be some solo stuff, like this episode. In this one, you can learn a little about what is motivating this new podcast. I’m in a search for myself, as a researcher, scholar, advocate, friend, and human.

The best way to support this podcast is to subscribe! The episodes will be here until we get up and running on a separate feed, but please check me out there!

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2. Introducing the Chicanologues!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 02 May 2023 09:40:41 -0400

As it turns out, solo podcasting is hard! While there will be guests, friends, and crews on this show, there will be some solo stuff, like this episode. In this one, you can learn a little about what is motivating this new podcast. I'm in a search for myself, as a researcher, scholar, advocate, friend, and human.

The best way to support this podcast is to subscribe! The episodes will be here until we get up and running on a separate feed, but please check me out there!

Visit our sponsor, Carney, Sandoe & Associates!

Subscribe to The Chicanologues!

Support the podcast!

2. Introducing the Chicanologues!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 23:38:33 -0400

Welcome to the Chicanologues! Join me, Gerardo Muñoz, as I examine my identity as a researcher, scholar, and person. In this episode, I explain a little bit of what went into my decision to create this podcast. In the future, we will have guests and topics that will expand your critical conscience and hopefully, entertain you!

Emergency Episode! Mayday Strike!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 23:27:19 -0400

We’re dropping this emergency episode from the organizers of a Mayday walkout tomorrow. This group of concerned citizens–parents, teachers, youth and others is hoping to spark a larger general movement to demand common sense gun policy. Listen for details, and find them on Instagram and Facebook, Mayday Walkout!

Emergency Episode! Mayday Strike!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 23:25:00 -0400

We're dropping this emergency episode from the organizers of a Mayday walkout tomorrow. This group of concerned citizens--parents, teachers, youth and others is hoping to spark a larger general movement to demand common sense gun policy. Listen for details, and find them on Instagram and Facebook, Mayday Walkout!

Throwback: Dr. Bettina Love and the Abolitionist Imperative in Education

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:39:05 -0400

You may remember the summer of 2020. We were caught in the grip of the initial months COVID-19 pandemic. A racial reckoning was beginning to materialize across the nation and, frankly, the world. When our guest that summer, Dr. Bettina Love, spoke with us at the NEA Racial & Social Justice Virtual Conference that year, she uttered the words “it is good to be here” and it was. We were surviving under constant threat of disease and violence.

Nearly three years have passed since this incredible conversation, and we wanted to revisit it. Dr. Love is a light of joyful tenacity in our work, and we look back and realize with greater appreciation, how much she got us all through it. Many of you have reached out to ask us for this episode, so please enjoy this throwback to a more bootleg time for us (audio much less cute than now), but this beautiful liminal space that we found ourselves with great minds and spirits.

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Find current work of Dr. Bettina Love and the Abolitionist Teaching Network here!

Throwback: Dr. Bettina Love and the Abolitionist Imperative in Education

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:37:56 -0400

You may remember the summer of 2020. We were caught in the grip of the initial months COVID-19 pandemic. A racial reckoning was beginning to materialize across the nation and, frankly, the world. When our guest that summer, Dr. Bettina Love, spoke with us at the NEA Racial & Social Justice Virtual Conference that year, she uttered the words "it is good to be here" and it was. We were surviving under constant threat of disease and violence.

Visit our sponsors at Carney, Sandoe & Associates!

Support the podcast on Patreon!

Find current work of Dr. Bettina Love and the Abolitionist Teaching Network here!

(Dr.) GLOVE(r) and Basketball and Student Voice with Dr. Erica Glover

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 08 Apr 2023 09:59:41 -0400

Dr. Erica Glover is brilliant, and able to speak on most anything, from hoops to equity to student voice to hip hop! In this joyful and amazing conversation, we get Dr. Glover’s take on QUEENS Angel Reese and Caitlin Clarke, the weather, the origins of Disrupter University, and, most importantly, her new book, Centering Student Voice: A Guide for Cultivating Emotionally Intelligent Educators and Culturally Responsive Classrooms. Plus a top five rappers that is straight out the barbershop.

Dr. Glover is a servant of education, committed to equity, inclusion, and justice. Throughout her career in education, Dr. Glover has worked as an educator, administrator, and Human Resource/Diversity, equity and inclusion professional.

As a former student-athlete and former professional basketball player, Dr. Glover realized that her passion to impact change was not limited to the basketball court. She remained committed to her community through the development of her non-profit, OKBNU, Inc. Through this non-profit, she was able to provide local youth with the opportunity to participate in AAU programs without the financial burden that deters many youth today.

In 2017, Dr. Glover earned her doctorate degree in Urban Education, from Cleveland State University. With an emphasis on Policy and Planning, Dr. Glover has transferred her learning into reimagining the ways in which we socialize future teachers (current students and pre-service teachers), and in-service teachers.

Today, Dr. Glover supports school districts and scholars through her organization, Disrupter University. Through this organization, she provides intercultural coaching for scholars and educators. She believes that advocacy is the key to liberation and peace, and develops training that allows others to see themselves in this work.

Dr. Glover is also an author. She has just released her first book, Centering Student Voice: A Guide for Cultivating Emotionally Intelligent Educators and Culturally Responsive Classrooms.

In her spare time, Dr. Glover enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family.

Centering Student Voice book

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117. (Dr.) GLOVE(r) and Basketball and Student Voice with Dr. Erica Glover

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 22:50:00 -0400

Dr. Erica Glover is brilliant, and able to speak on most anything, from hoops to equity to student voice to hip hop! In this joyful and amazing conversation, we get Dr. Glover's take on QUEENS Angel Reese and Caitlin Clarke, the weather, the origins of Disrupter University, and, most importantly, her new book, Centering Student Voice: A Guide for Cultivating Emotionally Intelligent Educators and Culturally Responsive Classrooms. Plus a top five rappers that is straight out the barbershop.

Dr. Glover is also an author. She has just released her first book, Centering Student Voice: A Guide for Cultivating Emotionally Intelligent Educators and Culturally Responsive Classrooms.

In her spare time, Dr. Glover enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family.

Centering Student Voice book

Visit Our Sponsor, Carney, Sandoe & Associates

Check out Disrupter University

Support TooDope Productions on Patreon!

Our website

116. Educators as First Responders with Dr. Deborah Offner

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 17:08:19 -0400

Dr. Deborah Offner is a clinical psychologist with expertise in adolescent development, student mental health, and school life.

She serves as Consulting Psychologist at Beacon Academy in Boston, a 14-month program between eighth and ninth grade that prepares students from communities with limited resources for entry into independent day and boarding high schools. She also provides ongoing professional consultation to several independent middle and secondary schools.

Dr. Offner maintains an active clinical practice where she works with middle, high school, and college students, and their families.

Her book, Educators as First Responders, shares the truth known all too well by educators: often, when a student is struggling, particularly in their adolescence, that student will often speak to a teacher first. Not a family member, not a parent, but a teacher.

Dr. Offner shares with us her observations and recommendations for how we may better support our unsung first responders: teachers.

Buy the book!

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116. Educators as First Responders with Dr. Deborah Offner

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 17:07:04 -0400

Dr. Deborah Offner is a clinical psychologist with expertise in adolescent development, student mental health, and school life.

Dr. Offner maintains an active clinical practice where she works with middle, high school, and college students, and their families.

Dr. Offner shares with us her observations and recommendations for how we may better support our unsung first responders: teachers.

Buy the book!

Visit our sponsor, Carney, Sandoe & Associates

Chicanologues 02. Denver Mayoral Candidate Lisa Calderón

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 14:43:43 -0400

Chicanologues 02. Denver Mayoral Candidate Lisa Calderón

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 14:42:29 -0400

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

115. Moms for Social Justice, Fighting Book Bans and Gag Orders

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 19:53:55 -0500

In this timely conversation, Gerardo is joined by Taylor Lyons, who represents Moms for Social Justice, an educational advocacy organization in Tennessee. The organization formed as a way to bring teachers and families together to raise consciousness and encourage diversity in the curriculum, especially through children’s and youth literature. This is a true grassroots organization that has been working side by side with classrooms and teachers for the last few years.

The right wing narrative would have you believe that progressive forces in your public schools are secretly brainwashing your children in the six-to-eight hours they are away from you. In fact, the opposite is true. According to numerous polls, most parents are very pleased with their children’s schools and teachers.

This is a deep conversation. We explore the pain of these manufactured culture wars, but the joy inherent in being in community with each other.

Learn more: https://www.momsforsocialjustice.us/

115. Moms for Social Justice, Fighting Book Bans and Gag Orders

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 08:38:00 -0500

In this timely conversation, Gerardo is joined by Taylor Lyons, who represents Moms for Social Justice, an educational advocacy organization in Tennessee. The organization formed as a way to bring teachers and families together to raise consciousness and encourage diversity in the curriculum, especially through children's and youth literature. This is a true grassroots organization that has been working side by side with classrooms and teachers for the last few years.

This is a deep conversation. We explore the pain of these manufactured culture wars, but the joy inherent in being in community with each other.

Learn more: https://www.momsforsocialjustice.us/

Nedra Rudolph: Leaving With Your Head Held High: The Exit Interview 3.01

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 22:13:37 -0500

Nedra Rudolph is one of thousands of educational professionals that many of us see but never truly SEE. Having worked in Title 1 schools, as a Dean of Students, a paraprofessional, and a family liason. These professionals are categorically invaluable, and grossly undercompensated.

She had a great situation, but like in so many situations, when leadership changes, so does culture. Never was the old saying "sometimes it's your own people" more true than in this situation, when White supremacy was perpetrated by a fellow person of color.

After a painful journey, Nedra was able to leave her position with her head held high. She still gets to work with children daily, and has found new joy in her work.

114. Pelo malo no existe/Bad Hair Doesn’t Exist with author Sulma Arzu-Brown

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 05 Mar 2023 12:16:03 -0500

Sulma Arzu-Brown is the perfect bridge between Black History Month and Women\’s History month. Brilliant, spirited, creative, and lively, Sulma carries her Afro-Latina and Garifuna pride with her daily.

Like so many of us, becoming a parent renewed her commitment to cultural maintenance and pride. When her child came home having learning the concept of \”pelo malo,\” or \”bad hair,\” Sulma acted. She wrote the beautiful book El pelo malo no existe/Bad Hair Does Not Exist. She made sure that her children would love their hair, their culture, and their language, and resolved to bring those gifts to us.

114. Pelo malo no existe/Bad Hair Doesn't Exist with author Sulma Arzu-Brown

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 05 Mar 2023 12:07:00 -0500

Produced by Gerardo A. Muñoz

Edited and mixed by Gerardo A. Muñoz

Music composed and performed by Kevin Adams

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic is a TooDope Production.

113. Real Talk About Deconstructing Karen with Saira Rao!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 11:53:42 -0500

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of White supremacy, violence, and racism. Be advised.

Central Park Karen. BBQ Becky. These incidents have become tropes. Many of us laugh, if even in an exasperated way, when reminded of these incidents. But there is a deeper and more insidious reality for Black and Brown people. Violence, literal and symbolic alike, stalks us. If we are lucky, we only get angry and frustrated. But like countless others, too numerous to name, the results may be worse.

Our guest this week is author, filmmaker, and activist Saira Rao. co-author with Regina Jackson of White Women: Everything You Already Know About Your Own Racism and How to Do Better, co-founder of Race2Dinner, and creator of the film Deconstructing Karen, joins Gerardo to discuss how she began on this path. She shares the deeply upsetting moment following the 2016 Presidential Election, when she discovered her “friends” true beliefs. She lambastes White Supremacy, and calls upon all of us to end it.

All this and a Top Five that will surprise you.

Get a discount with www.quetzalec.com when you mention us.

Support the podcast at www.patreon.com/ttoodopeteachers

113. Deconstructing Karen with Saira Rao

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 11:53:01 -0500

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of White supremacy, violence, and racism. Be advised.

Our guest this week is author, filmmaker, and activist Saira Rao. co-author with Regina Jackson of White Women: Everything You Already Know About Your Own Racism and How to Do Better, co-founder of Race2Dinner, and creator of the film Deconstructing Karen, joins Gerardo to discuss how she began on this path. She shares the deeply upsetting moment following the 2016 Presidential Election, when she discovered her "friends" true beliefs. She lambastes White Supremacy, and calls upon all of us to end it.

All this and a Top Five that will surprise you.

Get a discount with www.quetzalec.com when you mention us.

Support the podcast at www.patreon.com/ttoodopeteachers

112. Kevin Discovers #ChatGPT

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 00:11:16 -0500

Kevin forgot the podcast email password years ago. He texts Gerardo stuff to tweet. He has a vague notion that Instagram and Tik Tok might not be the same thing. He doesn\’t answer 67% of texts.

And yet, he is using #ChatGPT for lesson planning. Our good friend Angela Watson of 40 Hour Teacher Work Week fame has developed content around the same topic, although way better and detailed than we did, and our friend Donnie Piercey vanished into a #ChatGPT rabbit hole, periodically surfacing to make fun of Gerardo.

But, peoples, this isn\’t the act of a lazy teacher. Kevin and Gerardo discuss ways in which #ChatGPT may streamline the lesson planning process for teachers who are overwhelmed and stretched too thinly (this of course means ALL teachers). Kevin discusses how his framework for teaching is more personalized having used the AI. He is able to see exactly what it is that he does, reflect, and tweak. Gerardo muses about the way that #ChatGPT may support neurodivergent educators. He recalls being paralyzed by the instructional choices he had to make as a teacher, and how it caused him to spend too much time looking for materials, and wandering off track.

What do you think about #ChatGPT for lesson planning? Let us know!

In partnership with www.quetzalec.com

112. Kevin Discovers #ChatGPT

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 00:10:32 -0500

Kevin knows about technology after all!

110. Poetry for the Revolution with Poet Queen Valyn Lyric Turner

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 19:26:47 -0500

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

Partners: quetzalec.com

TooDope Teachers on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @toodopeteachers

Facebook

support the show! www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers

110. Poetry for the Revolution with Poet Queen Valyn Lyric Turner

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 19:23:00 -0500

Partners: quetzalec.com

TooDope Teachers on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @toodopeteachers

Facebook

support the show! www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Blaxodus: Branta Lockett, the 5280 Freedom School, Exit Interview 10

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 15:56:20 -0500

Branta Lockett moved through her educational odyssey at the highest levels. W.E.B. DuBois would have absolutely drafted her for his Talented Tenth All Star Team. Highly Gifted and Talented, International Baccalaureate, Brown University, she brought her sterling credentials to Denver, hoping to be the difference for all students, especially Black students.

Her first two years as a Denver teacher were, simply put, “great.” But by year three, things began to unravel. She witnessed disproportionate disciplinary actions taken against Black boys. Still new to the work, she became a voice of advocacy for students and community. Her evaluation scores took a jarring dip. She changed roles, and found no support in any of them. Between COVID-19 and anti-Black dynamics within the union, she took the leap.

The 5280 Freedom School, inspired by the Civil Rights era’s Mississippi Freedom Schools, launched first as a summer program. After having their charter initially rejected, they are poised to open their doors in “Harlem of the West,” the Five Points neighborhood.

This story is at once a cautionary tale and a call to action. Learn more at www.5280freedomschool.com; follow them on socials @5280freedomschool.

Check out our partners quetzalec.com.

Bonus Episode! Teachers of the Year Raise Our Voices for Honest Education

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 12:02:43 -0500

Dishonesty in education policy is not a new thing. From the criminalization of Black education to the arrests and trials of the East LA 13 to now, individuals from historically marginalized, oppressed, and excluded communities have received the message that our histories, our contributions, and our humanness are not welcome in our schools.

A few months ago Monica Washington (2014 Texas Teacher of the Year), Tracey Nance (2020/2021 Georgia Teacher of the Year), Chris Dier (2020 Louisiana Teacher of the Year), Takeru Nagayoshi (2020 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year), and I were invited to participate in the Voices for Honest Education Fellowship. We were deployed as voices for and with educators to combat fear-based education gag orders and book bans. Initially, the manufactured uproar over Critical Race Theory was the pressure point that bad actors located. As this strategy foundered, they turned their attention to LGBTQ students, teachers, and communities. We know that these bad actors are a fringe minority, but, unfortunately, they represent the tail that has wagged multiple dogs at the state and local levels. While it may be easy to dismiss them as a small group that doesn’t represent all Americans, they have successfully removed teachers, curriculum, and books from K-12 schools. One need look no further than Florida to see what happens when a small group gets the attention of an ambitious politician.

We sat down to discuss our work, and to invite you into the struggle. Find more information by finding Voices for Honest Education on all social media platforms. Read our blog, attend our events, and let us know how it’s going in your space.

Bonus Episode! Teachers of the Year Raise Our Voices for Honest Education

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 12:01:00 -0500

A few months ago Monica Washington (2014 Texas Teacher of the Year), Tracey Nance (2020/2021 Georgia Teacher of the Year), Chris Dier (2020 Louisiana Teacher of the Year), Takeru Nagayoshi (2020 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year), and I were invited to participate in the Voices for Honest Education Fellowship. We were deployed as voices for and with educators to combat fear-based education gag orders and book bans. Initially, the manufactured uproar over Critical Race Theory was the pressure point that bad actors located. As this strategy foundered, they turned their attention to LGBTQ students, teachers, and communities. We know that these bad actors are a fringe minority, but, unfortunately, they represent the tail that has wagged multiple dogs at the state and local levels. While it may be easy to dismiss them as a small group that doesn't represent all Americans, they have successfully removed teachers, curriculum, and books from K-12 schools. One need look no further than Florida to see what happens when a small group gets the attention of an ambitious politician.

Blaxodus: Branta Lockett, the 5280 Freedom School, on the Exit Interview 10

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 04 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Her first two years as a Denver teacher were, simply put, "great." But by year three, things began to unravel. She witnessed disproportionate disciplinary actions taken against Black boys. Still new to the work, she became a voice of advocacy for students and community. Her evaluation scores took a jarring dip. She changed roles, and found no support in any of them. Between COVID-19 and anti-Black dynamics within the union, she took the leap.

The 5280 Freedom School, inspired by the Civil Rights era's Mississippi Freedom Schools, launched first as a summer program. After having their charter initially rejected, they are poised to open their doors in "Harlem of the West," the Five Points neighborhood.

This story is at once a cautionary tale and a call to action. Learn more at www.5280freedomschool.com; follow them on socials @5280freedomschool.

Check out our partners quetzalec.com.

2023 Colorado Teacher of the Year Jimmy Day II!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 01:45:53 -0500

In October 2022, Aurora Public Schools middle school band teacher Jimmy Day II was named Colorado Teacher of the Year. He became the first Black male to receive the honor, as well as the first graduate of a Historically Black College or University to be named Colorado Teacher of the Year.

Gerardo was onhand to witness the historical event, and got to sit down with this creative, passionate, and brilliant teacher. We defy you to listen to his story and resist him.

109. 2023 Colorado Teacher of the Year Jimmy Day II!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 01:43:00 -0500

Gerardo was onhand to witness the historical event, and got to sit down with this creative, passionate, and brilliant teacher. We defy you to listen to his story and resist him.

Habitually Disruptive 23: Decolonize with Maribel González

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 20:12:32 -0500

I discovered Maribel González’s terrific @decolonizeinstruction account on Instagram, and was absolutely inspired by the ideas she shares there. A Native Xicana educator and Unschool Mama, she authored the books Social Justice and You, Be Your True Self, Build Strong Communities, Be a Changemaker and Choose Justice, she has also served as Director at the Center for Intergenerational Learning and National Faculty at PBL Works.

We sat down this past fall to discuss her ideas and insights on identity, the arts, and decolonizing for our communities.

Habitually Disruptive 23: Decolonize with Maribel González

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0500

I discovered Maribel González's terrific @decolonizeinstruction account on Instagram, and was absolutely inspired by the ideas she shares there. A Native Xicana educator and Unschool Mama, she authored the books Social Justice and You, Be Your True Self, Build Strong Communities, Be a Changemaker and Choose Justice, she has also served as Director at the Center for Intergenerational Learning and National Faculty at PBL Works.

We sat down this past fall to discuss her ideas and insights on identity, the arts, and decolonizing for our communities.

108. New Year, New Dopeness

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 28 Jan 2023 14:33:30 -0500

It's been a season of change in #TooDope Nation! With Gerardo firmly entrenched in the dark side, and Kev still holdin down the block, it was past time to catch up. In this episode, we catch up on the work we're doing, talk about these education streets, and make some resolutions for 23.

Support the podcast on Patreon.

Want great abolitionist PD for your community, school, or district? Check out Quetzal Education Consulting.

108. New Year, New Dopeness

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 22:00:00 -0500

It’s been a season of change in #TooDope Nation! With Gerardo firmly entrenched in the dark side, and Kev still holdin down the block, it was past time to catch up. In this episode, we catch up on the work we’re doing, talk about these education streets, and make some resolutions for 23.

Support the podcast on Patreon.

Want great abolitionist PD for your community, school, or district? Check out Quetzal Education Consulting.

The Exit Interview 09: Coming Back Different with Jacci Cradle

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 04 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

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

The Exit Interview 09. Coming Back Different with Jacci Cradle

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 03 Jan 2023 22:00:00 -0500

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

Habitually Disruptive 22. Anthony Swann is Disrupting Harmful Cycles

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0500

Anthony Swann is probably the kindest, gentlest person I have ever met, especially relative to his childhood. Taken from his mother for his own safety, he landed in the foster care system. When he was feeling that the world had turned its back on him, and that violence, fear, and abuse awaited him at every corner, his teacher reached out to him to assure him that he would be okay.

In 2021, he was named Virginia Teacher of the Year. But he is still healing from his trauma. Like me, he has had a difficult relationship with his father. Though our struggles are very different, his spirit and wisdom help me as I work toward healing.

Habitually Disruptive 22. Anthony Swann is Disrupting Harmful Cycles

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 27 Nov 2022 22:09:56 -0500

“The Person I Am Now is Different” Arvian Harper on 08. The Exit Interview

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 09 Oct 2022 23:12:36 -0400

Arvian Harper is a “Denver Public Schools lifer.” A graduate of the hallowed halls of East High School, she received a full ride engineering scholarship, later changing to pre-med. Like so many of us, she heard the call to the classroom, and she heeded, teaching Early Childhood Education, becoming a Team Lead and eventually moving into leadership.

After a series of difficult challenges–a violent incident at the school, a strike, COVID-19 and a racial reckoning, she began to reflect on the Racial Battle Fatigue she had experienced. As she began to peel back the layers of trauma, she realized “There’s a whole person in there.’

Since her healing journey began, she founded Awakening Cafe and has entered a consulting role with none other than our own Dr. Asia Lyons. Healing is possible.

"The Person I Am Now is Different" Arvian Harper on 08. The Exit Interview

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 09 Oct 2022 23:10:36 -0400

Arvian Harper is a "Denver Public Schools lifer." A graduate of the hallowed halls of East High School, she received a full ride engineering scholarship, later changing to pre-med. Like so many of us, she heard the call to the classroom, and she heeded, teaching Early Childhood Education, becoming a Team Lead and eventually moving into leadership.

After a series of difficult challenges--a violent incident at the school, a strike, COVID-19 and a racial reckoning, she began to reflect on the Racial Battle Fatigue she had experienced. As she began to peel back the layers of trauma, she realized "There's a whole person in there.'

Since her healing journey began, she founded Awakening Cafe and has entered a consulting role with none other than our own Dr. Asia Lyons. Healing is possible.

Habitually Disruptive Episode 21: For the Love the Game with Author and Filmmaker Gwendolyn Oxenham

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0400

I first discovered the work of Gwendolyn Oxenham when one of my middle school soccer players told me of a film screening he had attended the night before. The film was called Pelada, and "it's about soccer," was the only synopsis he offered (6th graders, waddaya gonna do?).

I decided to check it out, purchased it on iTunes, and it changed my life. Two division-1 soccer players, having finished their playing careers, found themselves directionless. In their words, "the pro leagues weren't calling, and we weren't in the national team pool,' explained my guest, Gwendolyn Oxenham.

So she and her partner Luke decided to travel the world in search of the heart of soccer: the pickup game. Underneath all the money, all the contentiousness, the drive, the manicured fields, the billion dollar industry, is people with a ball at their feet. As she decolonized her relationship with soccer, she returned to her elemental self: the humans and the stories.

Since the publication of her first book, Finding the Game and the film it was based on, Pelada, Gwen has continued the two things that ignite her passion: writing and soccer. She Published her second book, Under the Lights and in the Dark: Untold Stories of Women's Soccer, and it gained such acclaim that it was produced into the podcast series Hustle Rule, in which the stories were narrated by Hannah Waddingham, star of Ted Lasso

Anyone who reads Gwen's work will find their assumptions and beliefs about sports in general and soccer in particular disrupted. Plus an amazing top five!

Hustle Rule Podcast, narrated by Hannah Waddingham

Gwen's Books

Habitually Disruptive Episode 21: For the Love the Game with Author and Filmmaker Gwendolyn Oxenham

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 02 Oct 2022 19:00:00 -0400

I first discovered the work of Gwendolyn Oxenham when one of my middle school soccer players told me of a film screening he had attended the night before. The film was called Pelada, and “it’s about soccer,” was the only synopsis he offered (6th graders, waddaya gonna do?).

I decided to check it out, purchased it on iTunes, and it changed my life. Two division-1 soccer players, having finished their playing careers, found themselves directionless. In their words, “the pro leagues weren’t calling, and we weren’t in the national team pool,’ explained my guest, Gwendolyn Oxenham.

Since the publication of her first book, Finding the Game and the film it was based on, Pelada, Gwen has continued the two things that ignite her passion: writing and soccer. She Published her second book, Under the Lights and in the Dark: Untold Stories of Women’s Soccer, and it gained such acclaim that it was produced into the podcast series Hustle Rule, in which the stories were narrated by Hannah Waddingham, star of Ted Lasso

Anyone who reads Gwen’s work will find their assumptions and beliefs about sports in general and soccer in particular disrupted. Plus an amazing top five!

Hustle Rule Podcast, narrated by Hannah Waddingham

Gwen’s Books

SEASON 7 PREMIERE! THE GAME HAS CHANGED!!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 22:59:16 -0400

After a summer of anticipation rumors, and conjecture, the BOYZ are BACK. Gerardo and Kevin, merely two EDUCATORS in the city of Denver!

No, Gerardo hasn’t been replaced, and no his move to the proverbial “dark side” has not reduced his dopeness. And no, Kevin has not died without Gerardo in the building.

What we hope you find in season 7 of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic is spirited banter and multi-perspective conversation about education on a school and systemic level. Two perspectives on the same fight. Each keeping the other grounded and honest.

So let’s do dis, people! Who’s with us?

SEASON 7 PREMIERE! THE GAME HAS CHANGED!!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 22:58:56 -0400

After a summer of anticipation rumors, and conjecture, the BOYZ are BACK. Gerardo and Kevin, merely two EDUCATORS in the city of Denver!

No, Gerardo hasn't been replaced, and no his move to the proverbial "dark side" has not reduced his dopeness. And no, Kevin has not died without Gerardo in the building.

So let's do dis, people! Who's with us?

Habitually Disruptive 20: Healing Journey with 2020 Minnesota Teacher of the Year Qorsho Hassan

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 21:34:19 -0400

In the summer of 2020, as COVID-19 tore through communities, and law enforcement faced a racial reckoning, Minnesota named it’s 2020-21 state teacher of the year. In the state that saw the killings of George Floyd and Philando Castile by law enforcement, Qorsho’s recognition as the first Somali-American to be named teacher of the year remains significant. But what never stopped was the racist, misogynist and Islamophobic harassment that she faced regularly.

Nevertheless, Qorsho continued to work hard for her students and community, advocating with them and for them. Until she could not go on.

Qorsho was my first friend in our state teachers of the year cohort of 2021. And continues to be a source of strength, humor, and motivation to me. Her story is at once a powerful testimonial and a cautionary tale.

Habitually Disruptive 20: Healing Journey with 2020 Minnesota Teacher of the Year Qorsho Hassan

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 21:33:58 -0400

In the summer of 2020, as COVID-19 tore through communities, and law enforcement faced a racial reckoning, Minnesota named it's 2020-21 state teacher of the year. In the state that saw the killings of George Floyd and Philando Castile by law enforcement, Qorsho's recognition as the first Somali-American to be named teacher of the year remains significant. But what never stopped was the racist, misogynist and Islamophobic harassment that she faced regularly.

Nevertheless, Qorsho continued to work hard for her students and community, advocating with them and for them. Until she could not go on.

SUMMER REVOLUTION MIXTAPE 2022 TRACK 6: AUTHOR & MINISTER OF JOY AFRIKA AFENI MILLS

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 13:33:45 -0400

Summer has drawn to a close, if not officially, then in practice. Welcome to the conclusion of Summer Revolution Mixtape 2022! Fittingly, we will end with our new friend, our TrueDope Sister Afrika Afenni Mills.

Afrika Afeni Mills is an Education Consultant and the author of Open Windows, Open Minds: Developing Antiracist, Pro-Human Students. She works with teachers, instructional coaches, and administrators to develop and sustain student-centered learning experiences that are diverse, inclusive, and equitable. Afrika has been featured on podcasts, blogs, delivered keynote addresses and facilitated sessions at conferences across the United States. Afrika believes that all educators can be motivated, engaged, dynamic practitioners and leaders when provided with the support needed to create student-centered, anti-bias, anti-racist, culturally responsive learning environments that inspire wonder and creativity and nurture diversity, belonging, equity, and inclusion.

Keep up with Afrika’s work here. And buy the book!!

AfrikaAfeniMills.com

Twitter: @AfeniMills

Instagram: Open Windows, Open Minds

Facebook: Open Windows, Open Minds and Afrika Afeni Mills – Equity Guardian

LinkedIn: Afrika Afeni Mills

Personal Blog: Continental Drift

Can buy the book from my directly by emailing me at openwindows2022@gmail.com, or on the Corwin.com website. Also through online resellers.

2022 SUMMER REVOLUTION MIXTAPE TRACK 6: MINISTER OF JOY AFRIKA AFENI MILLS

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 01:31:00 -0400

Keep up with Afrika's work here. And buy the book!!

AfrikaAfeniMills.com

Twitter: @AfeniMills

Instagram: Open Windows, Open Minds

Facebook: Open Windows, Open Minds and Afrika Afeni Mills - Equity Guardian

LinkedIn: Afrika Afeni Mills

Personal Blog: Continental Drift

Can buy the book from my directly by emailing me at openwindows2022@gmail.com, or on the Corwin.com website. Also through online resellers.

The Exit Interview 07. Back to School with Dr. Asia and Kev

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 17:43:55 -0400

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

Find out in this back to school episode!

The Exit Interview 07. Back to School with Dr. Asia and Kev

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 17:41:46 -0400

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

Find out in this back to school episode!

REVOLUTION SUMMER MIXTAPE TRACK 5: 2022 NATIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR KURT RUSSELL! AND A SUB!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 20 Aug 2022 13:51:54 -0400

So, first things first. Kevin is out on important business. He did call a sub, but of course left no lesson plans. No problem, though, because his sub is none other than the amazing Juliana Urtubey, the 2021 National Teacher of the Year!

In this inspiring, authentic, and powerful conversation, @kurtsenior_, representing America’s teachers in 2022, we learn what has motivated him for his twenty-five years in the classroom, why Black History matters, and most importantly, a top five that is old school in all the right ways.

REVOLUTION SUMMER MIXTAPE TRACK 5: 2022 NATIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR KURT RUSSELL! AND A SUB!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 20 Aug 2022 13:50:06 -0400

In this inspiring, authentic, and powerful conversation, @kurtsenior_, representing America's teachers in 2022, we learn what has motivated him for his twenty-five years in the classroom, why Black History matters, and most importantly, a top five that is old school in all the right ways.

SUMMER REVOLUTION MIXTAPE TRACK 4: JULIANA URTUBEY 2021 NATIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 14 Aug 2022 19:48:40 -0400

What happens the year after a person is named CCSSO National Teacher of the Year? Find out when we catch up with 2021 National Teacher of the Year Juliana Urtubey! In her FIRST interview since her term ended, La Juli talks to us about her year representing America’s teachers, Joy and Justice, even today, and what she has learned about being in community with us. She also shares with us what is next for her (a TooDope Exclusive).

Juliana Urtubey, NBCT is known as “Ms. Earth” for her efforts to beautify schools and unify communities through murals and gardens. As the 2021 National Teacher of the Year, Juliana advocates for a “joyous and just” education for all students, one that is inclusive and celebratory of all students’ identities, families and communities. A bilingual, first-generation immigrant, Juliana has worked throughout her teaching career to serve as a mirror for her school community, helping students to be proud of their identities and families, and to acknowledge their strengths and contributions to the community. Urtubey is the first Latinx National Teacher of the Year since at least 2005 and the third Special Education Teacher to hold this distinction. Juliana has served as a bilingual and special education teacher since 2009 in Arizona and Nevada.

Juliana is a National Board Certified Teacher (Exceptional Needs, Birth to Age 21) and holds a bachelor’s degree in bilingual elementary education and a master’s degree in special bilingual education from the University of Arizona. She is a National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Board of Directors member.

Juliana (HOO-lee-on-a ER-two-bay) lives in Phoenix, Arizona. She enjoys reading in Spanish and traveling, and has had the opportunity to study and teach in Ecuador, Mexico, Spain and Puerto Rico. She also enjoys tending to her collection of house plants and spending time outdoors, and she aims to visit all the National Parks.

SUMMER REVOLUTION MIXTAPE TRACK 4: JULIANA URTUBEY 2021 NATIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0400

What happens the year after a person is named CCSSO National Teacher of the Year? Find out when we catch up with 2021 National Teacher of the Year Juliana Urtubey! In her FIRST interview since her term ended, La Juli talks to us about her year representing America's teachers, Joy and Justice, even today, and what she has learned about being in community with us. She also shares with us what is next for her (a TooDope Exclusive).

REVOLUTION SUMMER MIXTAPE 2022 TRACK 3: 2022 NEBRASKA TEACHER OF THE YEAR LEE PÉREZ

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 12:18:01 -0400

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

Habitually Disruptive 19. 2022 Kentucky Teacher of the Year Willie Carver, as Himself

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 11:40:28 -0400

“Oh sure, they’re gonna pick the big gay Appalachian” was Willie Carver’s first thought when he learned he had been nominated as 2022 Kentucky Teacher of the Year. It was a crowning achievement after fifteen years. Guided by the credo “fear has armor, love has none,” Willie supported students, especially LGBTQIA+ students, in being themselves and building a deeper understanding of their identities. Despite being warned by a school leader that being out and advocating for his community “you will be crucified, and no one will protect you, including me,” Willie continued to fight for his students.

The homophobia and hate reached a boiling point, and Willie Carver, the 2022 Kentucky Teacher of the Year, resigned his teaching position.

Hear his thoughts here. Support marginalized and minoritized teachers, students, and communities.

Read Willie’s Story Here

Connect with Quetzal Education Consulting!

Too Dope Productions

REVOLUTION SUMMER MIXTAPE 2022 TRACK 3: 2022 NEBRASKA TEACHER OF THE YEAR LEE PÉREZ

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

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

Habitually Disruptive 19. 2022 Kentucky Teacher of the Year Willie Carver, as Himself

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

"Oh sure, they're gonna pick the big gay Appalachian" was Willie Carver's first thought when he learned he had been nominated as 2022 Kentucky Teacher of the Year. It was a crowning achievement after fifteen years. Guided by the credo "fear has armor, love has none," Willie supported students, especially LGBTQIA+ students, in being themselves and building a deeper understanding of their identities. Despite being warned by a school leader that being out and advocating for his community "you will be crucified, and no one will protect you, including me," Willie continued to fight for his students.

The homophobia and hate reached a boiling point, and Willie Carver, the 2022 Kentucky Teacher of the Year, resigned his teaching position.

Hear his thoughts here. Support marginalized and minoritized teachers, students, and communities.

Read Willie's Story Here

Connect with Quetzal Education Consulting!

Too Dope Productions

The Exit Interview 06. “I Am Complicit in This” with Stacey Brandon

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 17:55:03 -0400

When a former director of equity in a school district joins our podcast you know it’s gonna be good. Stacey Brandon shares what led her to become a social worker in a Denver Metro school district, her journey to becoming director of their equity department, and consequently the decision she had to make realizing that it was time to move on. Enjoy another great episode!

The Exit Interview 06. "I Am Complicit in This" with Stacey Brandon

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 17:54:08 -0400

When a former director of equity in a school district joins our podcast you know it's gonna be good. Stacey Brandon shares what led her to become a social worker in a Denver Metro school district, her journey to becoming director of their equity department, and consequently the decision she had to make realizing that it was time to move on. Enjoy another great episode!

Habitually Disruptive 18. “I Can’t Protect You” with Lauren Cantell

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 26 Jul 2022 13:20:53 -0400

A cancer diagnosis can profoundly disrupt and destroy a person’s sense of self and purpose. While I have not experienced this, many have, and categorically the trauma and fear others have shared seems unreal and life-altering, even (especially) after recovery.

Lauren Cantell does not view herself as a representative of cancer struggle or survival. She believes that systemic oppression, especially racism and misogyny, play out in the American healthcare system. She feels rage at the fact that BIPOC womxn are the least likely to be treated with humanity or respect in this system. She also knows that her journey from diagnosis to recovery is her own, and that it is not the only way that recovery may occur.

Lauren came to realize that much of her recovery was driven by her fear of burdening others, or protecting those around her from her own illness and uncertainty. And while she is quick to explain that her friends and loved ones did not expect her to do this, she also realizes that there is a way that our society talks about life-threatening illness that often is not inclusive of individual experiences and perspectives.

Lauren talks about her cancer diagnosis as a Kindergarten teacher, and how it drove her to write a crown-funded feature film which explores her experiences. She shares her ambivalence about her own experience, and hopes to encourage others to share their stories, even if they are difficult, even if they do not have a happy ending.

To support Lauren’s film financially, please consider donating here

https://seedandspark.com/fund/i-cant-protect-you#story

Habitually Disruptive 18. "I Can't Protect You" with Lauren Cantell

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 26 Jul 2022 13:18:30 -0400

A cancer diagnosis can profoundly disrupt and destroy a person's sense of self and purpose. While I have not experienced this, many have, and categorically the trauma and fear others have shared seems unreal and life-altering, even (especially) after recovery.

To support Lauren's film financially, please consider donating here

https://seedandspark.com/fund/i-cant-protect-you#story

SUMMER REVOLUTION MIXTAPE 2022 TRACK 2: THE TEACHERS’ CAUCUS feat. RODNEY & SHAWN!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 13:52:26 -0400

It was deeply humbling and inspiring to collaborate with 2019 National Teacher of the Year Rodney Robinson and 2016 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year Shawn Sheehan, co-hosts of the Teachers Caucus Podcast, which examines the role of teachers in policy spaces.

For this collaborative episode, we discuss lighter moments in the classroom and touch on multiple other topics and issues. Laughter, insight, and wisdom prevail in this fun conversation. We’re posting a little late, but we hope you enjoy it.

REVOLUTION SUMMER MIXTAPE 2022 TRACK 1: ELENA AGUILAR

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 19:35:35 -0400

Elena Aguilar has been out here in these education streets a long time, pushing important ideas around social justice, equity, social emotional learning, and teacher wellness. As founder of Bright Morning, Elena remains at the forefront of important conversations with and about educators.

She joins Kevin and Gerardo for a terrific conversation, in which she shares her education journey, the passion that drives her, and a very summer top five!

Habitually Disruptive 17. Jena Nelson, Teacher of the Year, Candidate for State Superintendent!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 15:32:46 -0400

Jena Nelson, the 2020-2021 Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year, is a force to be reckoned with, an energetic and authentic educator with a big heart and an even bigger sense of fight for educators and the communities we serve. We connect for this episode to disrupt the idea that a teacher’s place is ONLY in the classroom. She is currently the statewide candidate for Education Superintendent, an elected position, in the state of Oklahoma. Constantly on the campaign trail and connecting with communities and constituents, she takes a moment to talk with me about her work.

REVOLUTION SUMMER MIXTAPE 2022 TRACK 1: ELENA AGUILAR

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 07:33:00 -0400

She joins Kevin and Gerardo for a terrific conversation, in which she shares her education journey, the passion that drives her, and a very summer top five!

Habitually Disruptive 17. Jena Nelson, Oklahoma Teacher of the Year, Candidate for State Super!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 03:28:00 -0400

Jena Nelson, the 2020-2021 Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year, is a force to be reckoned with, an energetic and authentic educator with a big heart and an even bigger sense of fight for educators and the communities we serve. We connect for this episode to disrupt the idea that a teacher's place is ONLY in the classroom. She is currently the statewide candidate for Education Superintendent, an elected position, in the state of Oklahoma. Constantly on the campaign trail and connecting with communities and constituents, she takes a moment to talk with me about her work.

Habitually Disruptive 16. Sports and Resiliency with Laken James

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 04 Jul 2022 13:19:37 -0400

Habitually Disruptive is about those who think differently about how we do things. Those who question the fundamental assumptions we make as we navigate and try to survive the status quo. That’s really it. You can be disruptive really anywhere, because most systems are designed to work exactly as they work, and most systems are maintained by human beings who either sustain or disrupt the status quo.

I met Laken James on Twitter, where all great friendships are born. She had posted an op-ed in which she described the impact of being benched after a loss as a college basketball player. She shared that it was devastating, but formed a foundation for healing and, ultimately success. enjoy this conversation with my favorite professional basketball player!

Habitually Disruptive 16. Sports and Resiliency with Laken James

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 04 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Habitually Disruptive is about those who think differently about how we do things. Those who question the fundamental assumptions we make as we navigate and try to survive the status quo. That's really it. You can be disruptive really anywhere, because most systems are designed to work exactly as they work, and most systems are maintained by human beings who either sustain or disrupt the status quo.

The Exit Interview 05. Dr. Jeanette Patterson

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 09:59:13 -0400

Another fire episode! This time we are speaking to Dr. Jeanette Patterson, a former principal who now finds herself supporting the youth of the Denver Metro Area in a whole new way. Tune in as Dr. Patterson shares her education journey, what she thinks school districts can do to support educators, what’s bringing her joy these days, and her plans for the future.

The Exit Interview 05. Dr. Jeanette Patterson

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Another fire episode! This time we are speaking to Dr. Jeanette Patterson, a former principal who now finds herself supporting the youth of the Denver Metro Area in a whole new way. Tune in as Dr. Patterson shares her education journey, what she thinks school districts can do to support educators, what's bringing her joy these days, and her plans for the future.

Habitually Disruptive 15. Back Again! with Lauren Piraro

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 17:15:23 -0400

Just a couple of years ago I connected with Lauren Piraro, history teacher and digital community builder extraordinaire, and could not have anticipated how wonderful it would be to speak with her. In her first appearance on Habitually Disruptive, we de-prioritize classroom teaching to focus on wellness. She has developed wisdom and power early in her career, and it is my distinct privilege to share her voice with you.

Habitually Disruptive 15. Back Again! with Lauren Piraro

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 05:13:00 -0400

Habitually Disruptive 14: 2021 Montana Teacher of the Year Kristi Borge

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 17 Apr 2022 23:07:15 -0400

I met Kristi Borge, 2021 Montana Teacher of the Year, in person during our fall Washington Week event. Her teacher story was intriguing; she teaches in a one-room school. Immediately my mind jumped back to 19th-century schoolmarm, chalkboards, big wooden desks that doubled as lockers, and a bell to let the children know that school is in session.

Hearing Kristi’s story was powerfully educational for me, as a (relative) city kid. She is responsible for EVERYTHING from clearing the snow, discipline, and if she is out sick, there is no school. She describes maternity leave, the ski resort she purchased with her husband, and the only kind of traffic jam you will ever see in her area. Plus we find solidarity in challenges that face both urban and rural kids. Listen, learn, and disrupted your assumptions!

Habitually Disruptive 14: 2021 Montana Teacher of the Year Kristi Borge

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 17 Apr 2022 11:06:00 -0400

Hearing Kristi's story was powerfully educational for me, as a (relative) city kid. She is responsible for EVERYTHING from clearing the snow, discipline, and if she is out sick, there is no school. She describes maternity leave, the ski resort she purchased with her husband, and the only kind of traffic jam you will ever see in her area. Plus we find solidarity in challenges that face both urban and rural kids. Listen, learn, and disrupted your assumptions!

Habitually Disruptive: Chicanisma for the New Milennium

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 21:39:46 -0400

I’ve had a chance to reflect on my 23 years of teaching, and I’ve been reminded to consider the role that Chicana/o/x Education has played in my life. When I came into teaching, and declared myself to be a Chicano teacher, some looked at me quizzically, wondering aloud, “Is that still a thing? Do people still identify as Chicanos?” Later I read a quote by some journalist declaring that “Chicano” is only used by old guys who have handshakes and reminisce about the past.

Welp, thanks to stickin’ around so long, I have seen a renacimiento of the Chicana/o/x name. Not that we ever went anywhere, but there is a new generation of Chicanas and Chicanos entering the teaching profession, but unlike me, the show up as their authentic selves.

I hope you enjoy this Chicana roundtable with Isabel Barajas de Benavidez, Emely Contreras, and Diana Bustamante Aguilar, three early-service teachers who are proudly and uncompromisingly CHICANAS…and who are connecting with each other for the first time.

Habitually Disruptive 13: Chicanisma for the New Milennium

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 18:45:12 -0400

I've had a chance to reflect on my 23 years of teaching, and I've been reminded to consider the role that Chicana/o/x Education has played in my life. When I came into teaching, and declared myself to be a Chicano teacher, some looked at me quizzically, wondering aloud, "Is that still a thing? Do people still identify as Chicanos?" Later I read a quote by some journalist declaring that "Chicano" is only used by old guys who have handshakes and reminisce about the past.

Welp, thanks to stickin' around so long, I have seen a renacimiento of the Chicana/o/x name. Not that we ever went anywhere, but there is a new generation of Chicanas and Chicanos entering the teaching profession, but unlike me, the show up as their authentic selves.

I hope you enjoy this Chicana roundtable with Isabel Barajas de Benavidez, Emely Contreras, and Diana Bustamante Aguilar, three early-service teachers who are proudly and uncompromisingly CHICANAS...and who are connecting with each other for the first time.

Habitually Disruptive Emergency Episode: Adams 14 and the Privatization Threat

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 22:46:00 -0400

When Colorado, like so many other states, created its draconian school performance framework and accountability measures (mainly standardized test results), an “accountability clock” was institutionalized and put in place. This meant that if a school did not perform satisfactorily according to standardized testing data, that school or district would face an extinction-level event, in terms of public education: state takeover and potential privatization.

Adams 14, the district serving a population decimated by institutional oppression, environmental racism, and utter neglect, saw its accountability clock run out in 2018. Since then, a comedy of errors has ensued, with charter mismanagement that has landed the district and its hardworking allies in the courts with those who have done them harm.

I sit down with four educators/community members to unpack the urgency of this situation. This is a must-listen. Adams 14 is all of us.

Habitually Disruptive Emergency Episode: Adams 14 and the Privatization Threat

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 22:45:34 -0400

When Colorado, like so many other states, created its draconian school performance framework and accountability measures (mainly standardized test results), an "accountability clock" was institutionalized and put in place. This meant that if a school did not perform satisfactorily according to standardized testing data, that school or district would face an extinction-level event, in terms of public education: state takeover and potential privatization.

I sit down with four educators/community members to unpack the urgency of this situation. This is a must-listen. Adams 14 is all of us.

The Exit Interview 02.04: Dr. William Anderson

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 12:41:50 -0400

Since last season, we have brought you stories that are heart-wrenching, painful, and traumatic. Examples of racial battle fatigue, professional violence and PTSD, which, even though most have experienced a measure of healing, or begun that healing journey, are difficult.

In some cases, Black classroom teachers depart the classroom to make a wider impact. This was the case for Dr. William Anderson, History teacher extraordinaire, who was just minding his own business, working on his doctorate, ready to return to the classroom for the 2021-2022 school year when he was tapped to take over the Teacher Education Program at the University of Denver, the first Black man to step into that role.

Dr. Anderson knew this was an opportunity to impact the profession in a more powerful way, and went on a journey to make it happen.

This is a provocative episode, and we encourage you to put on your intersectional lens as you digest this inspiring and powerful story.

The Exit Interview 04. Dr. William Anderson

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 12:37:19 -0400

Dr. Anderson knew this was an opportunity to impact the profession in a more powerful way, and went on a journey to make it happen.

This is a provocative episode, and we encourage you to put on your intersectional lens as you digest this inspiring and powerful story.

Habitually Disruptive 12: Nora Rahimian of #CultureFix

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 22:52:03 -0400

It is a time of transition, from winter to spring, and in education, millions of teachers are considering a change in career path. This episode, though recorded a while back, is timely for anyone who is wondering what freedom looks like professionally.

Nora Rahimian is a creative consultant who helps entrepreneurs achieve success on their terms, without giving up creative control, financial freedom, or personal integrity. She is also the founding director of #CultureFix, a global network of artists, activists, and entrepreneurs who use their platforms for social impact. Her work is based in the belief that our communities have everything they need to succeed, that art & culture can spark the paradigm shifts to make the world a better place, and that the radical change we imagine is both possible and necessary. Nora has spoken at conferences and universities around the world. She has been named one of iStandard’s Women Who Run The Music Industry, is a UN Alliance of Civilizations Fellow, and was recognized as a Trailblazer by VoyageLA. Connect with her online at linktr.ee/norarahimian or on your favorite social media platforms at @NoraRahimian.

Habitually Disruptive 12: Nora Rahimian of #CultureFix

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 08:10:00 -0400

Nora Rahimian is a creative consultant who helps entrepreneurs achieve success on their terms, without giving up creative control, financial freedom, or personal integrity. She is also the founding director of #CultureFix, a global network of artists, activists, and entrepreneurs who use their platforms for social impact. Her work is based in the belief that our communities have everything they need to succeed, that art & culture can spark the paradigm shifts to make the world a better place, and that the radical change we imagine is both possible and necessary. Nora has spoken at conferences and universities around the world. She has been named one of iStandard's Women Who Run The Music Industry, is a UN Alliance of Civilizations Fellow, and was recognized as a Trailblazer by VoyageLA. Connect with her online at linktr.ee/norarahimian or on your favorite social media platforms at @NoraRahimian.

The Exit Interview 03: Crystal Gillis

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 07:54:27 -0400

Kevin and Asia listen to Crystal Gillis’ story. From leaving the classroom to facilitating and developing youth voice and leadership at YAASPA, her story is informative and impactful.

The Exit Interview 03. Crystal Gillis

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 07:52:12 -0400

Kevin and Asia listen to Crystal Gillis' story. From leaving the classroom to facilitating and developing youth voice and leadership at YAASPA, her story is informative and impactful.

107. United States Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona: “I Haven’t Changed My Stripes.”

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 07:44:21 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo infiltrate the halls of power in the highest levels of educational government by visiting with the first Latino United States Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona! From his humble beginnings in Puerto Rico to a “class clown” to a twenty-year veteran educator, Dr. Cardona has traveled a long road and, in his words, “my stripes are the same.”

As the Biden Administration rolls out American Rescue legislation, Kev and Gera as him questions about the expenditures, investment, and future of American education in this contentious time. We discuss important issues facing communities of color in education, and share some laughs.

And of course, a top five that will, no doubt, sow the seeds of controversy.

We are profoundly grateful to EduColor and Profe Equis, José Vilson for this amazing opportunity.

107. United States Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona: "I Haven't Changed My Stripes"

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo infiltrate the halls of power in the highest levels of educational government by visiting with the first Latino United States Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona! From his humble beginnings in Puerto Rico to a "class clown" to a twenty-year veteran educator, Dr. Cardona has traveled a long road and, in his words, "my stripes are the same."

And of course, a top five that will, no doubt, sow the seeds of controversy.

We are profoundly grateful to EduColor and Profe Equis, José Vilson for this amazing opportunity.

Habitually Disruptive Episode 11: 2022 Colorado Teacher of the Year Autumn Rivera!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 15:31:12 -0500

We recorded this episode waaaaaaaay back in the fall, just after Autumn Rivera, Glenwood Springs Middle School Science Teacher, was named 2022’s Colorado Teacher of the Year. This was before she was named a National Teacher of the Year finalist, and we get this amazing glimpse of an earnest, humble, exciting and fun individual like the teacher her students and community have come to love and celebrate.

Join us for this early part of this journey. We talk shop, middle schoolers, and a controversial top 5!

Habitually Disruptive Episode 11: 2022 Colorado Teacher of the Year Autumn Rivera!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 15:30:54 -0500

We recorded this episode waaaaaaaay back in the fall, just after Autumn Rivera, Glenwood Springs Middle School Science Teacher, was named 2022's Colorado Teacher of the Year. This was before she was named a National Teacher of the Year finalist, and we get this amazing glimpse of an earnest, humble, exciting and fun individual like the teacher her students and community have come to love and celebrate.

Join us for this early part of this journey. We talk shop, middle schoolers, and a controversial top 5!

Habitually Disruptive Episode 10: 2010 National Teacher of the Year Sarah Brown Wessling

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 08:13:39 -0500

Sarah Brown Wessling is friend, mentor, coordinator and calming presence for the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), where she serves as the National Teacher of the Year program’s Senior Advisor. This means that she gets to travel the country, meet amazing teachers (and me), support those of us entrusted with the Teacher of the Year role, and amplify and elevate the teaching profession. A National Teacher of the Year herself (2010), she brings wisdom, insight, and above all, a love of teachers to a national stage. In a time when teaching is hard…it is HARD, people…Sarah disrupts the struggle with peace and honesty.

Plus a very calming and spiritual top five.

Habitually Disruptive Episode 10: 2010 National Teacher of the Year Sarah Brown Wessling

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 08:13:00 -0500

Sarah Brown Wessling is friend, mentor, coordinator and calming presence for the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), where she serves as the National Teacher of the Year program's Senior Advisor. This means that she gets to travel the country, meet amazing teachers (and me), support those of us entrusted with the Teacher of the Year role, and amplify and elevate the teaching profession. A National Teacher of the Year herself (2010), she brings wisdom, insight, and above all, a love of teachers to a national stage. In a time when teaching is hard...it is HARD, people...Sarah disrupts the struggle with peace and honesty.

Plus a very calming and spiritual top five.

106. 2021 Missouri Teacher of the Year Darrion “DC” Cockrell

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 07:32:31 -0500

This episode is a long time coming!

Darrion “DC” Cockrell, the 2021 Missouri Teacher of the Year, has a powerful, heartbreaking, and inspirational story, and he shares it with us. This is less a teacher’s lounge conversation and more of a “chop it up on the front porch” episode. DC discusses his experience with violence, sports, learning disability, and his journey to the classroom.

The temperature rises with a contentious Top 5, one from which we may never recover.

Theme music composed and performed by Kevin Adams.

Sponsor: quetzalec.com

106. 2021 Missouri Teacher of the Year Darrion "DC" Cockrell

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 09:36:00 -0500

This episode is a long time coming!

Darrion "DC" Cockrell, the 2021 Missouri Teacher of the Year, has a powerful, heartbreaking, and inspirational story, and he shares it with us. This is less a teacher's lounge conversation and more of a "chop it up on the front porch" episode. DC discusses his experience with violence, sports, learning disability, and his journey to the classroom.

The temperature rises with a contentious Top 5, one from which we may never recover.

Theme music composed and performed by Kevin Adams.

Sponsor: quetzalec.com

Exit Interview S2.01. “I Got Receipts” with Desmond Williams

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 14:12:48 -0500

Scholar, Author, Entrepreneur, and Educator Desmond Williams has been there, done that. A talented and effective classroom teacher, he quickly moved up the ranks to building leadership. But even as a principal, Desmond was not achieving the impact he wanted to. He found himself in frequent conflict with fellow leaders, and gained a sense of clarity.

That sense of clarity has manifested in his DEI firm Nylinka, a book, The Burning House, in which he echoes Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s question about racism as a system that perhaps African Americans should try to escape, and frequent speaking engagements and training. Desmond shares his story, questions the notion of Racial Battle Fatigue, and gets out the receipts. Do not miss this one!

Exit Interview 01. "I Got Receipts" with Desmond Williams

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 12:41:00 -0500

That sense of clarity has manifested in his DEI firm Nylinka, a book, The Burning House, in which he echoes Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s question about racism as a system that perhaps African Americans should try to escape, and frequent speaking engagements and training. Desmond shares his story, questions the notion of Racial Battle Fatigue, and gets out the receipts. Do not miss this one!

105. Autumn Rivera, 2022 Colorado Teacher of the Year and National Teacher of the Year Finalist!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 12:55:40 -0500

We sit down this cold evening to talk with Autumn Rivera, the Glenwood Springs Middle School science and social studies teacher who begins her term as 2022 Colorado Teacher of the Year this month! She makes history as the first Colorado Teacher of the Year to become a National Teacher of the Year Finalist in 28 years, and only the 9th in nearly 60 years. Autumn shares her path as a mixed-heritage educator of color, into middle school teaching, authentic service work for youth, solidarity and advocacy in the union, and of course, an amazing top five. An exciting and energetic interview as we learn from a brilliant scholar-activist.

Music composed and performed by Kevin Adams

sponsors:

https://www.quetzalec.com/

https://www.lyonseducationalconsulting.com/

105. Autumn Rivera, 2022 Colorado Teacher of the Year and National Teacher of the Year Finalist!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 12:51:00 -0500

Music composed and performed by Kevin Adams

sponsors:

https://www.quetzalec.com/

https://www.lyonseducationalconsulting.com/

“It’s Not About Football” Exit Interview Season 2, Episode 1

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 13:27:02 -0500

On December 21, Denverite broke the story that legendary community leader and Montbello/Far Northeast Warriors Coach Tony Lindsay, Sr. would not be invited back to coach football for the newly reunified Montbello High School football program. Despite a winning record that included a recent state championship, building leadership chose not to bring him back.

Coach Lindsay is more than a football coach, and much more than an X’s and O’s guy. He is a mentor, a friend, an elder, and a leader in his community since he began coaching nearly three decades ago. A onetime NFL player who played professionally in Canada, Coach Lindsay’s reputation is sterling in his community.

Asia and Kevin sit with him and hear his story. He shares his emotional journey as he recounts times that he was all some of his players had, and the outcry since the announcement has been deafening. In a time when the Far Northeast community needs every hand on deck to unite the community, this will prove a difficult blow from which to recover.

Listen and remember the value of community-grown leaders.

Read the story:

https://denverite.com/2021/12/21/coach-tony-lindsay-sr-will-not-lead-the-new-montbello-high-school-football-team/

Visit our sponsors:

Quetzal Education Consulting, quetzalec.com

Lyons Educational Consulting lyonseducationalconsulting.com

"It's Not About Football" Exit Interview Season 2, Episode 1

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 11:56:00 -0500

Coach Lindsay is more than a football coach, and much more than an X's and O's guy. He is a mentor, a friend, an elder, and a leader in his community since he began coaching nearly three decades ago. A onetime NFL player who played professionally in Canada, Coach Lindsay's reputation is sterling in his community.

Listen and remember the value of community-grown leaders.

Read the story:

https://denverite.com/2021/12/21/coach-tony-lindsay-sr-will-not-lead-the-new-montbello-high-school-football-team/

Visit our sponsors:

Quetzal Education Consulting, quetzalec.com

Lyons Educational Consulting lyonseducationalconsulting.com

Habitually Disruptive Episode 9: #EduCrush’s Natalie Vardabasso

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 01 Jan 2022 17:48:07 -0500

Natalie Vardabasso is one of my favorite education minds and overall cool humans that I’ve been lucky enough to meet. We first connected through Twitter (@natabasso) and we are truly kindred minds. This conversation happened a WHILE ago (shoutout to my doctoral program), but you all need to know her work, no matter how long it’s taken.

Nat’s Twitter: @natabasso

#EduCrush Podcast: https://educrushpod.libsyn.com/

Sponsors:

Quetzal Education Consulting: quetzalec.com

Lyons Educational Consulting: www.lyonseducationalconsulting.com

Royalty-free music, “Wasted Education” from AdobeStock

Giant Thank you to all our Patrons; to learn more visit patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Habitually Disruptive Episode 9: EduCrush's Natalie Vardabasso

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 01 Jan 2022 05:46:00 -0500

Natalie Vardabasso is one of my favorite education minds and overall cool humans that I've been lucky enough to meet. We first connected through Twitter (@natabasso) and we are truly kindred minds. This conversation happened a WHILE ago (shoutout to my doctoral program), but you all need to know her work, no matter how long it's taken.

Nat's Twitter: @natabasso

#EduCrush Podcast: https://educrushpod.libsyn.com/

Sponsors:

Quetzal Education Consulting: quetzalec.com

Lyons Educational Consulting: www.lyonseducationalconsulting.com

Royalty-free music, "Wasted Education" from AdobeStock

Giant Thank you to all our Patrons; to learn more visit patreon.com/toodopeteachers

104. WE MADE IT

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 13:53:35 -0500

This episode was actually recorded about a week ago, but in the words of the mighty Yasiin Bey IT’LL COME OUT WHEN IT COME OUT AND IT’LL BE FIRE.

Peoples. We made it. We pushed, pulled, or dragged ourselves to the 21-22 school year’s midway point and at the very least we can (should) separate from all things work-related. We hope that this time gives you a chance to slow down and breathe in the joy and relief that comes from community and a new connection with self.

We open with a requiem to the Righteous and Brilliant bell hooks, who we lost just recently. We reflect on which of the hooks teachings that most impacted us, and pour one out for our fallen sister.

Then we reflect on what was, is, and could be the coming days, weeks, months as we keep hope alive.

We love y’all so much, and can’t wait to chop it up on the other side of ’21.

Also check out our friends from Quetzal Education Consulting at quetzalec.com!

104. WE MADE IT

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 01:38:00 -0500

This episode was actually recorded about a week ago, but in the words of the mighty Yasiin Bey IT'LL COME OUT WHEN IT COME OUT AND IT'LL BE FIRE.

Peoples. We made it. We pushed, pulled, or dragged ourselves to the 21-22 school year's midway point and at the very least we can (should) separate from all things work-related. We hope that this time gives you a chance to slow down and breathe in the joy and relief that comes from community and a new connection with self.

We open with a requiem to the Righteous and Brilliant bell hooks, who we lost just recently. We reflect on which of the hooks teachings that most impacted us, and pour one out for our fallen sister.

Then we reflect on what was, is, and could be the coming days, weeks, months as we keep hope alive.

We love y'all so much, and can't wait to chop it up on the other side of '21.

Also check out our friends from Quetzal Education Consulting at quetzalec.com!

Habitually Disruptive Episode 8: Luís Antezana of Juntos 2 College

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 08:17:04 -0500

A long time ago, I got a chance to connect with my friend Luis Antezana, former classroom teacher and founder of Juntos 2 College and DACA recipient. Born in Bolivia, Luis has long wanted to provide undocumented students with the resources for post-secondary life, not limited to college, but also in terms of financial literacy, planning, and entrepreneurship.

For more information visit https://www.juntos2college.com/

To connect with our sponsor, head over to https://www.quetzalec.com/

And to support TooDope Productions, check us out on https://www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Habitually Disruptive Episode 8: Luís Antezana of Juntos 2 College

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 03:00:00 -0500

A while back, I got a chance to connect with my friend Luis Antezana, former classroom teacher and founder of Juntos 2 College and DACA recipient. Born in Bolivia, Luis has long wanted to provide undocumented students with the resources for post-secondary life, not limited to college, but also in terms of financial literacy, planning, and entrepreneurship.

For more information visit https://www.juntos2college.com/

To connect with our sponsor, head over to https://www.quetzalec.com/

And to support TooDope Production, check us out on https://www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers

Habitually Disruptive 07: Jodi Miller of WellCheq

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 13:34:00 -0500

The state of Colorado recently declared a youth mental health crisis that threatens the capacity of the healthcare system to take care of youth who are hurting. While this may be shocking to the general public, it is not shocking to public school teachers, who are often the first to learn that a young person is struggling with their mental health. This development is particularly not shocking to Jodi Miller, a doctoral candidate and former high school teacher who has developed WellCheq, a revolutionary way to monitor students’ mental health in a way that is safe, non-intrusive, and confidential way that simultaneously lends itself to professional support. Jodi, the soon-to-be Dr. Miller, observed the effects of stress on her students when she taught high school science, and decided to make this her doctoral and life’s work.

Plus possibly the greatest top five in the history of HD Top Fives.

Find more information on WellCheq here: https://wellcheq.com/

103. DPS Supah-Intendent Dr. Alex Marrero

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 16:23:20 -0500

This week, we are fortunate to bring you a conversation with Denver Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Alex Marrero! It is unusual to break down the walls between leadership and teachers across the system, but our new supah-intendent is game! Listen to his story, as a kid from the Bronx who became a district leader. Hear what he has to say about staff shortages and teacher evaluations. Hear his Top Five Rappers. But most importantly, hear his two invitations and challenges to us!

Hope everyone has a good week!

103. Denver Public Schools Supah-intendent Dr. Alex Marrero

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 03:16:00 -0500

Hope everyone has a good week!

102. Come to Community

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 07:45:27 -0400

We’re back this week with some things on our minds. It’s November, but for so many educators, it feels more like February. We are aging and exhausting quickly. In the first segment, we discuss mental health. The struggles, the challenges before us, and what can be done to protect and heal the spirits of teachers, students, and communities. We shout out the professionals doing the important work, but caution that heroism only goes so far. There is a mental health reckoning that we must face.

In the second segment, we discuss another reckoning: the racial one. Using the “two sides of the Holocaust” front of the culture wars, we share ways in which teaching truth and honesty may heal our nation. It is a terrifying time, but we can be a part of this important humanizing work.

This episode is brought to you by our amazing patrons, as well as Quetzal Education Consulting! Check them out at quetzalec.com for a free consultation.

102. Come to Community

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 07:38:00 -0400

We're back this week with some things on our minds. It's November, but for so many educators, it feels more like February. We are aging and exhausting quickly. In the first segment, we discuss mental health. The struggles, the challenges before us, and what can be done to protect and heal the spirits of teachers, students, and communities. We shout out the professionals doing the important work, but caution that heroism only goes so far. There is a mental health reckoning that we must face.

In the second segment, we discuss another reckoning: the racial one. Using the "two sides of the Holocaust" front of the culture wars, we share ways in which teaching truth and honesty may heal our nation. It is a terrifying time, but we can be a part of this important humanizing work.

This episode is brought to you by our amazing patrons, as well as Quetzal Education Consulting! Check them out at quetzalec.com for a free consultation.

102. Gholdy Muhammad: Artist in the Industry

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 22:10:53 -0400

We are so humbled and blessed to bring you this conversation with the inimitable Dr. Gholdy Muhammad, author of Cultivating Genius, a seminal work in antiracist and abolitionist pedagogy. Dr. Muhammad shares with us a new vision of what teaching may look like. Dr. Muhammad discusses the potential to develop living teaching frameworks, and ways to cultivate genius for ALL students.

A keeper. And a fire top five. Check. It. Out.

Exit Interview 10. Ya Might Win Some with Michael Diaz-Rivera

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 22:53:51 -0400

Michael Diaz-Rivera was a brilliant and respected teacher with a reputation for empowering and inspiring his Black and Latinx students. He rose quickly to prominence for his unapologetic radical love for his community and our children. A frequent advocate and organizer for his professional association, school, and district, Michael was featured in local stories across the city for his tireless advocacy and sacrifice for his communities.

Things went south, as they often do for Black educators. His outspoken nature landed him under thee microscope and he found his former allies turning from him. He departed teaching this summer. The classic Lauryn Hill lyric “ya might win some, but ya just lost one” springs to mind.

Michael will be okay. Maybe even better. But will we?

10. Ya Might Win Some with Michael Diaz-Rivera

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 22:52:39 -0400

Things went south, as they often do for Black educators. His outspoken nature landed him under thee microscope and he found his former allies turning from him. He departed teaching this summer. The classic Lauryn Hill lyric "ya might win some, but ya just lost one" springs to mind.

Michael will be okay. Maybe even better. But will we?

101. Season 6 Premiere! Maintain and Sustain!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 07:53:00 -0400

We. Are. Back. We follow the wildest school year on record with thee wildest return to school on record. Amid social unrest, some on silly ish like masks, some more insidious, like attacks on educators and communities of color, we're back with students, masked and maintaining flexibility as we live and work on the knife's edge. Things are hard, y'all. And we got jokes.

Habitually Disruptive Episode 6: Humanizing with Luís J. Rodríguez

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0400

If you are a Latinx or Chicanx/Xicanx person, you probably remember the very moment you first read Luís J. Rodríguez's Always Running, La Vida Loca: Gang Days in LA. For me, it was when I had just finished college and happened upon a copy at my school. I had just read Monster: The Autobiography of an LA Gang Member, written by Sanyika Shakur, and I was searching, unwittingly, for a way to humanize and process the environment that was my home for my entire childhood and adolescence. Always Running shook me to the core, and I remember thinking how fortunate I was to have stayed away from "that life" as a youth.

As I have grown as a writer and educator, I've learned the power of healing, storytelling, and bearing witness to the consequences of systemic racism and capitalism. Don Luís has long given me the words to explain the pain and sadness I feel to this day when I think of where I grew up.

I messaged him on Instagram, not expecting any kind of response, but there it was. Almost immediately this brilliant and humble veterano of movements and cells agreed to come on the show and gave me more time than I could have ever hoped for. I have reached out to other towering figures in the arts and scholarship, but Luis will stay with me a long time, because he was so ready to speak.

This elder is a gift. Please enjoy this charla.

05. Habitually Disruptive with Math Revolutionary Annie Fetter

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 17:01:00 -0400

When I first learned of the "I notice/I wonder" approach, I was not aware that the concept had really gained traction as a math practice in the work of Annie Fetter. Fetter, who trained to become a teacher but quickly became one of its most humanistic and revolutionary trainer-experts, had revealed that allowing students the space and freedom to simply describe what they see in a math lesson deepened their learning, made the work relevant, and yielded positive results. I always had a feeling about this; traditionally I used "notice and wonder" in my history classes, but far from the 10-15 minutes it was supposed to take while I took attendance, handed out graded work, and provided materials for the "real" lesson, 45 minutes would go by until I finally ended the discussion to get to the "real work."

When Kevin and I interviewed LaChanda Garrison for the Too Dope Teachers and a Mic podcast, she shared Annie's name to illustrate a humanizing and culturally responsive method for teaching math. I went to YouTube immediately and found a treasure trove of presentations, workshops, and articles. "What do you notice/what do you wonder" was the praxis I always wanted and never knew it.

A couple of Twitter and Zoom conversations later, here we are. Annie, brilliant, unique and determined, joins me for a conversation that will disrupt all your long-held assumptions about math instruction and schooling more generally. Do not miss this one!

Revolution Summer Mixtape Track 6: Author and Educator Jaer Armstead-Jones

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 08:16:00 -0400

Jaer Armstead-Jones is the definition of persistent. He has experienced life's struggles and beauty alike. He has found healing through spirituality and creativity. And over the past few years, he has been writing tirelessly, consistently, and patiently to put a story into the universe. Drawing on experiences lived both by him and others, My Invisible Father asks important questions of fatherhood, masculinity, intersectionality, forgiveness, and healing.

We have the distinct honor and privilege to hear Jaer's story and life path, as well as reflect on our own.

Plus a fire top five.

Revolution Summer Mixtape: Kevin, Asia, and the Exit Interview

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Just wanna tell you that the mixtape doesn't have a specific order. Track 2, the one we did SECOND, is very meta and reflective.

In the winter of 2020, Asia approached us with an idea. Having been forced from her teaching position a few years before, Asia was keenly aware of the conditions faced by Black teachers in these schools. This has been the basis of some of her research around Dr. William Smith's work on Racial Battle Fatigue, and she had decided that these stories MUST be told. Thus was born the wildly successful Exit Interview series.

We wanted to examine ways in which this work has impacted Kevin and Asia. How have these stories impacted them? Do you feel inspired? Upset? Disappointed? All of the above?

As we return to the classroom this fall, we know that there are fewer Black teachers for the reasons outlined in this series. Plus a fire Top Five.

Habitually Disruptive Episode 4: 2021 Michigan Teacher of the Year Owen Bondono

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Owen is a quintessential disruptor. Owen is punk rock. Owen radiates love and revolution, which is why he is the Michigan Teacher of the Year for 2021. If you haven't had the please of hearing his ideas, learning about his message and platform, you are truly missing out. He is funny, brilliant, and ready to burn some things down for justice.

Since recording this episode, we did indeed attend Space Camp, and it was a blast and we did disrupt some stuff!

Revolution Summer Mixtape Track 4: Angela Watson of the 40 Hour Teacher Workweek

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 03:00:00 -0400

We are beyond blessed and fortunate to bring you our much-anticipated interview with the venerable and brilliant Angela Watson, who has been working to abolish the notion of the teacher as martyr for years. Her 40 Hour Teacher Workweek program saved Gerardo's teaching career, ultimately helping him to be named the 2021 Colorado Teacher of the Year, and she stands poised, in the wake of her recent book publication, to roll out the Cornerstone for Teachers, a wide-spanning and comprehensive effort to make the work of the teacher sustainable.

But far from being the Marie Kondo of education, Angela also shows up daily as a co-conspirator looking to abolish White Supremacy in education. In this lively and inspiring episode, Angela chats with Gerardo and Guest host Brooke Brown, 2021 Washington State Teacher of the Year about the state of education today.

This episode is a must listen, with a towering yet humble figure in education today.

Habitually Disruptive Episode 3: Holistic Liberation Healing with Jenny Medrano

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 23:55:12 -0400

Since coming to Colorado and hoping to become an educator, Jenny Medrano has been at the forefront of change and liberatory thinking and youth development. We first crossed paths when she mentored youth leaders as a part of Building Bridges, later Shift, and has recently struck out on her own, in a world desperate for a new kind of healing. In this expansive conversation, we discuss healing advocacy, and listening to one's inner child. We discuss disruption for social justice and human development deeply and in new ways. And we get a fire top five!

Revolution Summer Mixtape Track 3: Young Activist Elijah Wright and Hasadiah Israel

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

YALL READY FOR THIS??

Track 3 of the mixtape is FIRE, pure and simple. We sit with Elijah Wright and Hasadiah Israel for an encompassing, energetic, funny, engaging and convicting conversation. It is rare for authentic cross-generational exchange to occur, especially for teachers. We often act on the assumption that because we are in the presence of young people, that we engage in such exchange, but in this forum, we are truly on equal ground. Hasadiah and Elijah bring brilliance, commitment, humor, and passion to this track of the mixtape.

We are reminded of how crucial it is to struggle toward liberation, and to take joy in the struggle, and trust that the community sees our work, not only our words. To be free is to be one's authentic self, and these young men practice freedom at every turn.

A note: If you have young children around, you may not find some of the language to be age-appropriate. We are committed to providing space for Black and Brown thinkers, creators, innovators and activists to be their authentic selves, and sometimes that means that they will use profanity.

Emergency Episode: #FlyingWhilePoC with Sabrina Suluai-Mahuka, 2021 American Samoa Teacher of the Year

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 23:24:00 -0400

Space Camp was soooooo much fun. Gerardo made new friends, solidified relationships with old ones, and the general feeling of the 2021 State Teachers of the Year was positivity, solidarity, joy, and a newfound exuberance about what education and educators could be. Though not every Teacher of the Year could be present, it was a special gathering of special spirits that could have lived on as a pristine moment of joy and perfection in an increasingly traumatized, frightened and uncertain world.

Until departure day, when American Samoa 2021 Teacher of the Year Sabrina Suluai-Mahuka learned that her flight home was canceled. She was told abruptly and in no uncertain terms that there was no hotel provided, no ground transportation, no meal vouchers (it seems relevant to state here that the only restaurant in the Huntsville airport had its kitchen closed). Disappointed and discouraged, Sabrina braced herself for a long night ahead, probably sleeping with one eye open as she awaited a flight home.

Moments later, she learned that our colleague Anthony Coy-Gonzalez, the Ohio Teacher of the Year with a sweet smile and even sweeter disposition, was offered hotel, transport, and meal vouchers "before I even had a chance to ask." Good friends, the two of them shared experiences and both realized that implicit bias had once again reared it's ugly head.

After a flurry of social media posts and DM exchanges between American Airlines and Sabrina and her allies, a brief "investigation" yielded a borderline insulting result. Sabrina, however, has remained resolute in her determination to see systemic change happen.

With Kev out of town, Gerardo is joined by guest host Brooke Brown, 2021 Washington State Teacher of the Year, to share Sabrina's story. Please listen to the end, as there are ways that you too may #StandWithBrina.

Summer Revolution Mixtape 2021 Track 2: Kevin and Asia Discuss the Exit Interview and the Attack on Black Teachers

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Kevin and Asia have been hosting The Exit Interview for the last few months. The Exit Interview is a TooDope Production that was formulated by Asia as part of her doctoral work around Racial Battle Fatigue, Dr. William Smith's concept of the labor and burden that is disproportionately shouldered by educators of color, especially Black teachers.

The Exit Interview is profound, emotional, and authentic. There are enough stories to fill a book. Kevin and Asia open up about their own learning as a part of gathering these stories, and share the implications of anti-Blackness across the system personally, professionally, and systemically.

To support work like the Exit Interview, go to www.patreon.com/toodopeteachers.

02. Habitually Disruptive: 2020 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year Kimberly Dickstein-Hughes

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Kimberly Dickstein-Hughes, the 2020 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year, brings joyous and disruptive energy to her work, both in her school and the teaching community at large. Whether helping students think critically about Shakespeare or facilitating their own engaged and authentic work, "Kimmy D" is a transformative force in the lives of her students, and for public school educators everywhere.

Join us for a fun conversation that we simply did not want to end!

To support this TooDope Production, head over to patreon.com/toodopeteachers.

Exit Interview 07: Racial Battle Fatigue part II with Dr. William Smith

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Asia and Kevin's interview with Dr. William Smith of the University of Utah was so saturated with wisdom that we brought him back for a part II! Dr. Smith has probably forgotten more about racism and education than we currently know, and for that reason, we decided that a single conversation cannot hold him!

In this conversation, Dr. Smith shares his wisdom, doing a deep-dive into Racial Battle Fatigue. He discusses a litany of topics, including his rebuttal of the notion that Racial Battle Fatigue is analogous to post-traumatic stress disorder and the various manifestations of RBF, behavioral, psychological and physiological. He reveals that addressing racism as it is experienced by Black educators and their communities requires an honest look back over centuries, as opposed to reading a book or having a community circle in professional development.

Get out your notebooks; Dr. Smith is going to take you to school with this one.

Mixtape Track 01: Desmond Williams

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0400

The 2021 Summer Revolution Mixtape is here! Track 1 features the brilliant, insightful, funny and honest Desmond Williams, author of The Burning House: Educating Black Boys in Modern America, founder of Nylinka Educational consulting and former principal. This conversation is in-depth, so pace yourself! We discuss, well, everything, from trauma to institutional racism to self-employment to hip hop. If you are looking for new ways to imagine education, this episode is IT.

100. SEASON FIVE FINALE EPISODE 100 LETS GOOOO

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0400

And in the blink of an eye, we have reached 100 episodes. In this season finale, we reminisce about the good times, the funny times, the difficult times, and the moments of inspiration. As we help you reflect on this, the wildest and most difficult year that anyone can remember, we take a look back as we look forward.

We have each made a list: Our ten most memorable moments since December 2016, when the podcast went live. Some of these are episodes and interviews, other items are places we have gone and people with whom we have connected. But there is a catch: we did not share our lists with each other ahead of time.

Listen as we reflect and close the year. Thank you for staying dope with us for yet another season.

"You Can Stand On My Shoulders" with Dr. Darlene Sampson, The Exit Interview, Episode 6

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Equity is the goal for nearly every diverse school district in the country. As the ripple effects of generational trauma and systemic oppression continue to be felt in communities of color, especially Black and Brown communities, districts like the Denver Public Schools have created positions and offices of equity, inclusion, or both.

Dr. Darlene Sampson, equity specialist coordinator at the Western Educational Equity Assistance Center and a clinical field faculty in the Department of Social Work at Metropolitan State University of Denver, was once the director of Culturally Responsive Education in Denver Public Schools, bringing with her three decades of experience to a vitally important office, especially as the district sought to end generational inequity and trauma within the school system. In 2006 she stepped into the position, confident and excited to begin the work that not only was she was she passionate about, she had lived it, growing up in Pueblo, Colorado where "there were not that many of us."

Soon, she discovered that her employer was not prepared to do the work. They were not ready for her greatness, which is to say that they did not establish the conditions under which true Culturally Responsive Education could grow. Instead of building a space for liberation, she describes her daily work as a battle ground, and even finds the term "Racial Battle Fatigue" to fall short in describing what she experienced. It was a plantation experience.

Today, Dr. Sampson shares with us her experiences fighting the good fight, the correct fight, and the work in which she is currently engaged. She harbors no ill will; she simply realizes that her employers were simply not prepared for what Culturally Responsive work required.

01. Habitually Disruptive Premiere!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 13 May 2021 18:38:00 -0400

Welcome to the Habitually Disruptive podcast, hosted by me, 2021 Colorado Teacher of the Year Gerardo Muñoz. This TooDopeProduction aims to celebrate and amplify folx disrupting traditional education in favor of liberation and change for ALL students.

In this pilot episode, I interview Aspen High School's Tameira Wilson, a seventeen year veteran who has dedicated her career to teaching multicultural curriculum to her students, who are more diverse than you may realize. We talk racism, COVID-19, Black Lives Matter, and law enforcement, plus a fire top five.

Read more about Tameira Wilson's journey: aspentimes.com/news/black-educator-works-to-bring-more-multicultural-learning-perspectives-to-aspen-schools/

Royalty-Free music composed by Ketsa.

99. From a Place of Love with Marylin Zúñiga

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 13 May 2021 03:00:00 -0400

About 14 months ago, COVID-19 brought school as we knew it to a grinding halt. In the weeks and months that followed, the US education system scrambled to adapt, modernize, move all school operations online and generally attempt to continue business as usual over video calls and virtual learning platforms. We struggled with this. If you caught our episode "Pump the Brakes" in the spring, we expressed concern about this rush to continue schooling in the manner.

In July, the Education for Liberation Network broadcast a webinar titled "Repurposing Our Pedagogies" and among the brilliant voices sharing wisdom was the brilliant and loving Marylin Zúñiga, who declared that she "would not participate in business as usual." She declared, along with other voices in the space that it was time to "decolonize time" and to maintain home as "a sacred place for healing."

Marylin has moved with authenticity, spirituality, and swiftness since being a little girl who frankly, did not like school, to being a transformative and spiritual abolitionist voice in a wilderness that seeks only economic recovery and capitalist salvation at all costs. This conversation will move you, because it isn't just about school, and it isn't just about struggle and abolition and justice. It is about a humanizing "place of love" that transcends our fleeting institutions and dares to imagine a life worth living, with healing, in community.

You can check out the work of Marylin, Dani, and Anna at Quetzal Education Consulting, and you can follow Marylin and Quetzal on Instagram for regular inspiration. And you can support their organization by spreading the word about this great work.

98. 2020 Colorado Teacher of the Year Hilary Wimmer

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 06 May 2021 23:37:00 -0400

It has been a long time coming, mostly because scheduling has been a steep learning curve for Gerardo. In this interview, we compare notes on being state teacher of the year, leading authentically, and tying the mental health needs of our students directly to the work we do in our classrooms.

97. Educator and Children's Author Hodo Hussein

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 06 May 2021 03:00:00 -0400

This week, we bring you the amazing story of Somali-Muslim-Canadian educator and children's book author Hodo Hussein. She joins us from a lockdown in Canada, where she describes the situation as 'uncertain' and 'indecisive.'

During the course of a wonderfully insightful interview, we discuss representation of Muslim educators and communities, creativity, and following one's dreams in hard times. It should be noted that Hodo did not set out to become a writer, but when she was separated from her students at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, she decided to take a creative approach to keeping a connection, affirming their sadness at no longer having school, and even improving their math skills. Her wonderful debut book, Manal Mahal and the Double Cookie Party is an affirmation of children's feelings and willingness to go on in hard times.

Plus good laughs and a fire top five!

Exit Interview 05. The Origins of Racial Battle Fatigue with Dr. William Smith part I

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 05 May 2021 03:00:00 -0400

This is a real special episode of the Exit Interview! Asia and Kevin talk with Dr. William A. Smith, professor of Education and Ethnic Studies at the University of Utah. Dr. Smith, who developed some of the most profound research around the concept of Racial Battle Fatigue, shares his research, insights and experiences tracking this phenomenon.

In this profound and wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Smith discusses a veritable library of topics, so many that we decided to expand this conversation to two parts (Part II will be out this summer--stay tuned!). He shares his perspectives on the positioning of school leaders and teachers in regard to revolutionary action. He shares his thoughts on Black representation in film as a pacifying force. He names the genocidal actions taken against Black people both past and present.

Throughout this conversation with this next level scholar, the learning is strong, the struggle In contextualized, and the inspiration is total. Tune in!

Breaking News! Colorado Senior Wins Princeton Prize for Race Relations!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 05 May 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Zaira Najera is a graduating senior at Eagle Valley High School in Gypsum, Colorado. Her family comes from Mexico and she is a first generation American, as well as a first generation college student. She co-founded and currently serve as co-chair for a club called SPICE (Students Promoting Inclusion and Civic Engagement) at EVHS, as well as a member of Youth Celebrate Diversity’s Student Virtual Board and YouthPower365 with their Leadership Team at Eagle Valley High School.

Zaira was recently awarded the prestigious Princeton Prize for Race Relations, which honors a handful of high school students across the country for their efforts to improve race relations in the communities. In 2021, only 29 high school students across the country won the award.

Zaira speaks with Gerardo about her commitment to social justice, her own experiences with racism and discrimination, and her desire to continue to work in community with others, as well as an excellent top five.

96. Marianna Lucero of In Lak'ech Denver Arts

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Marianna Lucero really didn't have any interest in the arts, or in drama class. But she had a teacher who insisted. As Marianna continued through her education and adult life, she found that she could not cut the arts out of her life.

She became a teacher, responsible for teaching ALL the arts at her Southwest Denver elementary school. And as she connected with students, their families, and their communities, something special started to happen. Students who had gone on to middle school visited, telling her how much they missed her class, how much they missed her, and playfully suggesting, "Miss, why don't you just keep teaching us?" In fact their enthusiasm was so real that it inspired her to pursue a Moonshot fellowship and establish In Lak'ech Denver Arts.

In this dynamic and inspiring episode, Marianna talks to Gerardo about her path to the arts, and her eventual arrival to a place where she was poised to make a real difference in the lives of kids and her community. Plus a FIRE top five.

Breaking News! Finishing the Game with the Ednium Alumni Collective

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 23:46:14 -0400

After months and months of discussion, community listening, planning, and research, the Denver Public Schools Board of Education stands poised to make a decision that could improve the future prospects of countless young people of color in our city. With the support of Ednium, the non-profit alumni collective organized by TeRay Esquibel, Denver could have graduation requirements in Ethnic Studies and Financial Literacy as early as 2023. All that remains is an important Board vote in June, and it could happen.

Ednium threw up the TooDope Bat Signal, and we are here to amplify this work. Listen to this episode, and then tweet or post using the hashtag #ifihadknown, followed by your story of how you would have benefitted from Ethnic Studies, Financial Literacy, or both. Be sure to tag @tayandersonco, @drolson4dps, @anhelacob, @revbrad, @bacon4co, @obrien4co, @scott4schools. Be sure to include @edniumalumni, @teray_esq and of course, @toodopeteachers when you do!

Emergency Episode: The Chauvin Conviction

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 16:10:00 -0400

Heavy day yesterday. We reluctantly and ambivalently process the day after former police officer Derek Chauvin was convicted on all counts in the murder of George Floyd in 2020. We listen to each other, share honest reflections and come to you in all our uncertainty and emotion. We hope you are processing in a healthy way, in a good way, and we understand if you feel you must skip this episode.

Much love to you all. We have so long to go, and we have to keep going.

95. "Burnout is a Community Issue"

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Do you find yourself weary of the "self-care" pronouncements made in education? How many Starbucks gift cards before I feel relaxed, positive and enthusiastic? How many baths before the grinding sense of defeat fades away and I can show up like a Hollywood movie teacher? If I practice mindful breathing until I hyperventilate, am I doing it wrong? And why do I feel uncontrollable hostility to people who work out every morning, and proceed to tell, like EVERYONE about it?

The fact is that self-care is only a small part of the issue of social and emotional wellness in education. We have attended professional development sessions, taken steps to address our students' social and emotional needs, and some schools and districts have even stated that they will adopt SEL curriculum for the foreseeable future.

So why don't educators feel any better?

In an illuminating roundtable discussion with the Center for Cognitive Diversity's Emily Santiago, school leader Dr. David Gutierrez and doctoral student Paulina Whitehat, Gerardo seeks a deeper understanding of the social and emotional needs of teachers, and how school leaders may better create the conditions for true social and emotional wellness and support. By sharing their own research-based insights, experiences, and specific programs and practices, the panel delves deeply into a neglected and understated issue. With over 40% of teachers stating that they will depart the profession in 2021, this episode is a must-listen.

Emergency Episode with Project VOYCE

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

One of the understated stories of the 2020 election cycle was the rising tide of youth activism and participation in what was considered a crucial election. Beyond the top of the ticket, a number of state and local resolutions had massive implications for young would-be voters.

Across the country, electorates have been considering lowering the voting age. While this is not a new effort, various cities across the United States have considered a change to the electorate. In some places, voters sixteen and up would be allowed to vote in certain circumstances, like school board elections. In others, there were proposals to allow young citizens sixteen and up to vote in any and all elections.

In Colorado, some of Kevin and Gerardo's students voted in the 2020 election, because they would be 18 by election day. However, part of the fallout from November 3 was the passage of Amendment 76. While the amendment was regarded as uncontroversial by some, it has dire implications for historically disenfranchised voters, as well as young voters.

Project VOYCE, whose motto "Nothing About Us Without Us" brilliantly characterizes its ethos, philosophy, and commitment, has been working on campaigns to expand youth voice across the system, including Student Voice Student Vote (SV2). These brilliant young activists and policymakers have worked hard to amplify a dynamic and needed demographic: the youth of our community.

Amendment 76 represented a gut-punch for Malachi Ramirez and the rest of the young activists at Project VOYCE and they found that a lot of their could be nullified by this amendment. They were forced to regroup, and the result has been the SV2 Listening Campaign, in which youth are invited to share their experiences, struggles, dreams, and concerns as they not only approach adulthood, but as they face and address issues TODAY.

Kevin and Gerardo sit down with Malachi to learn more. To participate in this campaign, please complete this survey! Listen and support at https://www.studentvoicestudentvote.org/. More information can be found at https://www.studentvoicestudentvote.org/

94. 2019 National Teacher of the Year Rodney Robinson

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Rodney has over 20 years experience as an educator with Richmond Public Schools. He graduated from King William High School in rural Virginia in 1996. He received a bachelor’s degree in history from Virginia State University in 2000 and a master’s in educational administration and Supervision from VCU in 2011. He started teaching at Virgie Binford Education Center in 2015, a school inside Richmond Juvenile Detention Center, in an effort to better understand the school to prison pipeline. His classroom is a collaborative partnership between him and the students. He provides a civic centered education that promotes social-emotional growth. The knowledge he is gaining from his students is also helping develop alternative programs to keep students from becoming part of the school to prison pipeline.

His accomplishments in education vary from his professional growth to his students’ personal growth. He has been published four times by Yale University. He has received numerous awards for his accomplishments in and out of the classroom, most notably the R.E.B. Award for Teaching Excellence. He has worked with Pulitzer winning author James Foreman to develop curriculum units on race, class, and punishment as a part of the Yale Teacher’s Institute.

He was named the 2019 National Teacher of the Year by the Council of Chief States Schools’ Officers. He used his time as teacher of the year to advocate for cultural equity to make sure students have teachers and administrators who look like them and value their culture. He was recently named HBCU male alumnus of the year by HBCUdigest.com. He was also named #8 on the Root magazine’s Top 100 influential African Americans of 2019. Last December he was named Richmonder of the Year by Richmond Magazine. He is currently a senior advisor with Richmond Public Schools. He has started the RVA Men Teach Program to recruit and retain male teachers of color in Richmond Public Schools. He is also working with the district to implement anti racist policies and pedagogy. His passion is helping the underprivileged and underrepresented populations in America.

We get a chance to chill with Rodney, laugh, get deep and of course, a fire top five rappers.

Follow Rodney on Twitter @RodRobinsonRVA and on Instagram @rodrobinsonva, and at https://rodrobinsonrva.com/

Exit Interview 04. "I Am Still an Educator" with Shalelia Dillard

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 12:43:00 -0400

Welcome to Episode 4 of the Exit Interview with Asia Lyons and Kevin Adams!

This week we hear Shalelia Dillard share her story. It is a similar refrain for Black educators who have experienced institutional alienation and rejection within the education system. We invite you to listen and take in her story of optimism, belief in schooling as an equalizer and in her own brilliance and talents to provide a quality education for children generally, only to see her confidence and professionalism come under attack by the same forces that permeate our system.

But, as we have seen during the life of this podcast, the process has been liberatory while still painful. Shalelia has discovered that most dangerous of discoveries: that it is possible to continue to be an educator without teaching in a school. She shares her inspirational path and reminds us of what it means to be not an industry artist, but an artist in the industry.

Catch the Exit Interview monthly in the Too Dope Teachers and a Mic feed.

The Exit Interview is a production of Too Dope Media.

Music composed and performed by Kevin Adams

93. Trauma, SEL, and Healing with Dr. Apryl Alexander

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This week, Kevin and Gerardo connect with Dr. Apryl Alexander, professor and researcher of Forensic Psychology at the University of Denver. Initially, we hoped to discuss Social/Emotional Learning and Trauma-Informed practice as we prepare for a possible increase in in-person teaching and learning, as well as a potential full return to in-person schooling in the fall. What we got was so much more. Dr. Alexander challenges prevailing notions around trauma and sexual violence, comprehensive sex education, and her assertion, as articulated in her writing and TED Talk, that "sexual violence is preventable."

We discuss all that not only as it pertains to a return to in-person schooling, but as it pertains to education more generally going forward.

Plus a FIRE top five.

Emergency Episode: AAPI Educators Speak Out: Celebrate Us and See Us

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0400

In this emergency episode, Gerardo hosts a roundtable with five Asian American/Pacific Islander-identifying educators from across the United States to discuss the horrific murders of eight Asian and Asian American people in Atlanta a few days ago. Carla, Erika, Tran, John, and Kim share their stories of struggle, triumph, purpose, pain, and invisibility as this threat of violence and death hangs over them, as is has over all Asians since they first came to these shores.

In this episode, they express pain, anger, frustration, disappointment, and more than any other emotion, numbness. The draw critical connections to a larger AAPI Civil Rights struggle, acts of murder and violence faced by their community, and ways in which anti-Asian hate and violence are acceptable in our world, as they have always been.

This episode is heart-wrenching and inspirational. Listen today and stand in solidarity with our AAPI neighbors and friends.

92. The Comeback

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0400

Just the fellas today. This harrowing adventure of schooling during a pandemic is fraught with contradiction, anxiety, frustration, joy, disappointment and doing one's best with what one has. We engage in some real talk around returning to in-person schooling, including our own experiences, as well as across the country.

Additionally, we shout-out our financial supporters with nicknames (can you find yours?) and look ahead to the final weeks of school. Don't call it a comeback! Actually, call it a come back. Because we're literally coming back...to school buildings...

91. To Be Received with LaChanda Garrison, 2021 DODEA Teacher of the Year

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

To talk with LaChanda Garrison, the 2021 Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA), is to be taken to school by next-level brilliance, compassion and intellectual and spiritual depth. Her story is unique and fascinating, and reminded us that each person has a unique path and set of experiences. A self-proclaimed "military kid," LaChanda shares her story of racial insecurity and a desire to "be received" and be seen for who she is.

We could not be prepared for the deeply honest and open experiences that LaChanda shared. She shares stories of her biracial identity, her work in the "family business" of DODEA teaching, and living in Bahrain. She shares her praxis of student-centered, relationship-driven mathematics instruction, and takes us to school. And finally, a wonderfully constructed Top Five rappers/performers that gives us even more of a glimpse into this amazing spirit.

A longer episode, and worth every second.

Exit Interview 03. "God Said it was Time" with Donna Druery

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Being a Black educator in the American system of schooling will test the faith of the strongest. In this powerful episode, Doctoral candidate Donna Druery (who has her defense the day after this episode!) shares the long journey through education that ultimately ended with her departure. She shares upsetting experiences, ranging from the hostile to the absurd. An excellent educator once highly recruited and touted as exceptional in her context, she experienced what so many Black educators experience. Her professionalism was not simply questioned, but outright attacked. She was the subject of gossip among White teachers. For over a decade she found herself in a textbook abusive relationship with her job. At times, she felt that "we were turning a corner" only to find herself attacked again.

Listeners will find resonance with Donna's story. The "constant strategizing" simply to be heard in her community the physical manifestations of her racial battle trauma.

Through it all Donna's faith carried her to a degree that is jarring and powerful. Don't miss this episode of the Exit Interview!

90. National Teacher of the Year Finalist Juliana Urtubey

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Juliana Urtubey's family came to the United States to escape the Civil War in Colombia. Their transition was aided by existing citizenship, and Juliana has made the most of her opportunity, not only in her own educational attainment, but as a highly skilled and accomplished elementary educator. She brings a different energy, one that is completely consistent with her nickname "Ms. Earth" a moniker given her by a student. She is a person of many worlds, who crosses borders daily in her quest to humanize the schooling process in Nevada, where she is the first Latinx educator to be named Nevada Teacher of the Year. She is also one of the four national finalists for National Teacher of the Year, and this interview tells you only SOME of what you need to know about this well-deserved distinction.

Over the course of an energetic, healing and fun conversaton, Juliana shares her experiences with community gardening at the school, National Board Certification, grassroots teaching and learning, humanizing pedagogies, and teaching to thrive in a space where multiple worlds meet. You will love her insights and stories!

89. Dr. LaGarrett King on Black Historical Consciousness

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

As a young college student, LaGarrett King knew somethin was up. A student of history who had a profound understanding of himself as a complex human being, he knew that the version and framework of history he was being offered in his program was limiting and myopic. "I didn't have the language" he explains, "but I knew there was more to it."

As a teacher, "I was on the traditional track for a Black male educator," which meant administration, but after a few months "checkin hall passes" he decided that he wanted to dig more deeply into the work of studying and understanding Black Historical Consciousness.

Now Associate Professor of Social Studies Education at the University of Missouri and founder of the Carter Center for K-12 Black History Education, Dr. King is setting schools ablaze with powerful abolitionist ideas around the importance of Black Historical Consciousness. He dives deep into contentious, unsettling historical study and drops so many gems we thought we'd just robbed a museum!

Gerardo and Kevin had the experience of hearing Dr. King teach at professional development, and now you get to hear his ideas. Get a pencil and paper, because class is in session!

88. Neelah Ali of Denver's Black Educators Caucus

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 12:10:00 -0500

The systematic attack on Black teachers continues across education, and the great city of Denver is no exception. The ways in which Black and Brown teachers are often scapegoated and experience proxy attacks on the communities from which we come and which we serve. The designation of schools with Black and Brown student populations, and those which employ Black and Brown educators as "low performing," "not meeting" or, locally, "red" is a well-established and researched problem in our system.

We sit down with secondary teacher Neelah Ali, one of the founding members of Denver's Black Educators Caucus, about the continued marginalization of Black teachers within our system and the caucus' recent #dpssoracist campaign. Neelah speaks at length about stories shared with the caucus regarding atrocities committed against Black teachers, especially in the form of stereotypes, professional bullying and other microaggressions felt keenly in most schools which employ Black and Brown educators.

Follow the BEC, the hashtag on Facebook, and support Denver's Black educators!

02. "Everything for a Reason" with Analise Harris

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 02:00:00 -0500

Analise Harris embodies Black genius, Black ingenuity, and a resilience. Always socially conscious and connected to her community, Analise entered the education system through alternative means after studying sociology in college. Having worked with the NAACP and other advocacy organizations, we in education were bless to have her join our ranks and work with children every day. She was impactful immediately and beloved by her students and parent community.

Then, as occurs so often with Black women teachers, things went south. The gossip. The microaggressions that became outright hostility. In a wrenching conversation that lays bare the pain shouldered by Black women educators, Analise shares in stark and unapologetic detail her harrowing journey from star teacher to persona non grata. Even today, she expresses bewilderment at the ways in which she was treated, as she re-lives the trauma of being run out of the classroom.

But she never wavered in her commitment, her goals, and her certainty that she was doing right by her students. Listen as she turns her pain and struggle into one of the most exciting STEAM programs in the area. She now looks to "corner the market" that schools simply refuse to see. This is a powerful, painful, but ultimately inspirational story of healing and creative genius. Do not miss this one!

Hosted by Asia Lyons and Kevin Adams

Produced by Gerardo A. Muñoz

87. Midseason Brain Dump

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 09:12:42 -0500

It's mid-season, and we got so much on our mind that we just can't recline. This podcast has its roots in brain dumping the things we see, feel, and experience over the course of a year. It's a necessary catharsis, release of anxieties, celebrations, frustrations that is frenetic and healing all at once. Plus Kidz Bop M.O.P.

86. Resist. Heal. Create with Ki Gross of Woke Kindergarten

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

Ki Gross is clear on many things. They are here to serve Black and Brown children, their families, and communities. They center healing and radical love of Black and Brown babies. They create spaces for all manner of Black, Brown, and LGBTQIA+ folx. We've been excited about Ki's work since we first heard of Woke Kindergarten on the Abolitionist Teaching Network's podcast hosted by Dr. Bettina L. Love, and are deeply honored and humbled to conversate on the show with them.

We were not prepared for the deeply spiritual and healing conversation that ensued. They started by asking us not how we were doing, but "How are you nurturing your spirit today?" And that set the tone. Ki pushes us with passion and love to develop deep learning of the spaces we occupy. Before teachers put a curriculum in place, we must form relationships with our students, their families, and communities. We engage in the practice of education as a community, setting priorities as a collective.

Among the most powerful statements Ki makes to students that "you exist in the future" and that Black and Brown lives are precious. Yes, there are resources shared here, like the Tenets of Woke Kindergarten, the Nap Ministry, 60 second stories, Little Revolutionary, and Black Children Play. But really the power of their ideas is in causing us to reconsider ways in which we may center healing in our work. This conversation was mind-altering, and we hope it gives you the chills of possibility as it did for us.

Please consider attending the Bank Street Early Childhood Symposium TODAY, February 4, 2021!

The Exit Interview 01: Sataira Douglas

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 03:00:00 -0500

When she came into the teaching game, Sataira Douglas was a highly regarded rising star in teaching. In a profession that struggles to recruit, let alone retain, Black teachers, Sataira was sought after by multiple school districts.

The situation decayed quickly. Microaggressions and macroaggressions. Gaslighting. Frozen out by colleagues. Rumors. Blamed for colleagues health problems. Invisible labor. The stress on family and community members who watched her struggle and still hold her head high. Belittled publicly in front of colleagues.

And still, Sataira came to work. Told herself "it could be worse." Worried what would happen to her students if she left. Staying for a community of parents and children that she felt a bond with. Hold your head down. Just do your job.

And yet, "I knew I was going to quit by October."

But through the pain and professional harm done to her, Sataira found a way to rise. To discover her power. To learn exactly how much was too much.

85. 2021 Texas Teacher of the Year Eric Hale!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0500

This one is a history-making episode, y'all, and instant classic. We go for an energetic and inspirational ride with Eric Hale, the 2021 Texas Teacher of the Year. The first Black man to earn this award in the history of Texas. We cover a wide range of topics, from serving your community and meeting its needs to raising the achievement of his students who come from historically marginalized communities, to raising money in the wake of a tornado that devastated his community. Also, we discuss his critical perspective on the TooDope Top Five MCs .He has appeared on NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, as well as the Kelly Clarkson show, and now he is with us!

Fasten your seatbelts and enjoy this conversation! It left us ready to run through a wall, honestly.

84. "I Didn't Have Teachers Like Me"

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

This week we have a fun, insightful, and heartfelt conversation with Julio and Daniell, two queer educators of color in our city. In this honest and direct conversation, they explain the spaces they inhabit, their process of accepting and celebrating themselves, and the daily identity negotiation that comes with working closely with students and their families.

Our podcast has not done nearly enough to bring stories of LGBTQ educators of color to light, and we are grateful that these two brilliant and energetic educators shared their stories with us. The discuss their childhood, the impact of adults, the influence of educators and mentors, and their hope that they can be role models for LGBTQIA students, students of color, and students who live in those intersections. Plus top five rappers.

You will not want to miss this episode.

83. Outta Pocket

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

This has been hard. Gerardo is at his breaking point. Hard week, and Kevin noticed that it's starting to boil over a little. He's a lil snippy in department meets, scowls in front of his camera during staff meetings and is running his mouth without thinking first. Kevin is concerned. We have a little therapy session, the fellas blow off some steam, discuss all kinds of stress-inducing events from an attempted takeover of Congress to return to school which is just days away for us.

We close out by commemorating Dr. King and his lessons for us today.

Mind the volume on this episode, it's a loud one.

82. Natalie Vardabasso of #educrush

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

We hope 2021 welcomes you with optimism, resolve and human connection!

By the time you're hearing this, you might have tasks to assess and grade. Don't grade anything until you've listened to this!

Gerardo sat down with Natalie Vardabasso of the #Educrush podcast a while back to discuss an important challenge faced by all teachers: feedback, grading, and antiracism. In it, we explore the intersections of those important aspects of effective classroom practice as we prepare for a new semester. Natalie's work and this episode are essential for teachers who hope to remix their grading and feedback practices for student success and empowerment. Natalie shares her insights on feedback, grading, and growth rooted in relationships.

This episode is a crucial listen if you are a teacher who is weary of the grading rat-race. Enjoy!

80. 2021 Premiere: Cornelius Minor!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 03:00:00 -0500

What better way to kick off the most uncertain semester in the history of public education than with educator, author, revolutionary, superhero and trickster Cornelius Minor? He sits with us for a fun, energetic, optimistic and wide-spanning conversation that covers such eclectic topics as race in education, a pedagogy centered in Black and African spirituality, community and intellectualism, basketball, comic books, movies, and the Dr. Xavier of BIPOC educator-superhero-tricksters. We laugh, we become serious, and he has a special offer for the first 5 TooDope Patrons to join us this month!

Also, fun fact: this is our 80th regular episode but our 100th overall episode (including mixtapes and emergency episodes)! Thank you for helping make this possible!

81. Lauren Piraro of Teach to Blossom

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 02 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0500

We've really tried to avoid thinking about work these last couple of weeks. However, we agree that in these few days before we see students, some planning is in order.

Lauren Piraro is a brilliant early-service teacher in the Bay Area. She teaches high school history, and like so many of us, is dedicated to doing the best she can for ALL students, especially her students from communities of color and LGBTQ communities.

We found her on instagram under the handle @TeachtoBlossom, where she shares a wide range of professional experiences. From her exemplary planning and leveraging of digital platforms to her own work as a graduate student in History, her field of passion, Lauren works hard to connect to others and build community.

Planning is at the center of equitable praxis. The more energy we dedicate to planning and responsiveness, the more we reach all students, especially students from traditionally oppressed and marginalized communities. Her Instagram account reflects these realities in a powerful way.

In addition to, and more importantly, Lauren makes her content relevant and accessible to students. Her students complete a local history project, even in her Advanced Placement History class. We mention the AP class because she has taught us and so many others that there is ALWAYS a call to make content and skills applicable to students' lived experiences, and curricular demands, especially high-stakes assessments must NEVER throw us off that focus.

Gerardo has a fun conversation with Lauren. Follow her at @TeachtoBlossom on Instagram where, in the interest of community and collective learning, she unselfishly shares her wisdom and resources.

Encore! Dr. Bettina L. Love at NEA #EdJustice 2020

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 13:38:00 -0500

This past summer, Kevin and I had the privilege, the blessing, the amazing opportunity to be a part of the National Education Association’s Justice Summer Camp. Our partnership with NEA on the issue of educational justice has been a thrilling two-year experience, and we must thank the amazing Shilpa and Stephanie for coordinating for us and connecting us to dope educators, thinkers, and artists who are out here doing this work.

When we learned that we had been selected to interview Dr. Bettina Love, author of We Want to do More than Just Survive and Hip Hop’s Lil Sistas Speak: Negotiating Hip Hop Identities, we about lost our minds. Her revolutionary work around Abolitionist Pedagogy has represented a tipping point for us in the last year, especially with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and her work has guided us in this turbulent school year.

When Dr. Love addressed the topic of schools’ role in the spirit murder of Black children, Kevin responded with a call for us as teachers to be spirit HEALERS, eliciting a cheer from Dr. Love. That has remained our call as we have navigated this year, and we are so grateful to Dr. Love for her work and spiritual guidance. ALSO we are so grateful for her top five!

79. Semester Finale

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0500

We have arrived at the most anticipated winter break in the history of public education! We have a lot on our minds, and a lot to decompress; thankfully, we have our nation of toodope therapists to listen and not judge us! In this episode, the final episode of 2020, we discuss lessons we have learned, both school-related and otherwise, during this year, we discuss the importance of healing, and make some resolutions for the new school year. In fact, this year has taken such a toll that Kevin even tries to convince Gerardo to freestyle and, well, you're just gonna have to listen to the show to hear what happened.

We love you all, and are so appreciative of your support this year. We have made major strides in this of all years because of you!

78. Trauma Informed and Anti-Racism with Emily Santiago of the Center for Cognitive Diversity

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Gerardo flies solo this week, as Kevin attends to family business, as Emily Santiago of the Center for Cognitive Diversity breaks down the urgency of trauma informed practice and antiracism in schools. After beginning her career as a Montessori teacher, Emily discovered that providing true social/emotional support was her true calling. As the executive director of the Center, she and her team have provided important programming for whole school communities, including adult staff, who also deserve the lens of trauma informed praxis. This episode is a must-listen in these anxious and stress-inducing times.

77. They Don't Know Who We Be: Evaluations and BIPOC Teachers

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 04:00:00 -0500

December is nearing the halfway point, and we get together to talk about our continuing (unending?) COVID-19 experience. Despite all that has changed in school and system accountability practice, teachers in many states will still be evaluated this semester, and this year.

Evaluations are a loaded and emotional experience for all teachers, but the biases and assumptions that BIPOC teachers, especially Black teachers, have even more dire consequences. We sit down and discuss a number of studies regarding the evaluations and teachers of color, and call upon administrators, coaches, and other teacher evaluators to recognize the fraught situation that is the yearly appraisal.

It comes down to the lyrics of DMX's "Who We Be," because for many teachers of color, their leaders don't know...who we be. Take heed: this disruptive episode will ask you to re-think how you coach your teachers in general, but especially your teachers of color.

A special thank you to our Hella Dope Patrons, Jackie Parkins, Bram Hubbell, Ryan Sullivan, Matt Busch, Asia Lyons, Natalie Shaffer, and Jill Boyd Meyers, as well as Kelsey Gray, whose donations alone make each episode possible. Thank you.

Encore! Boots Riley, NEA EdJustice 2018!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0500

This week we revisit our memorable session with the incredible and real Boots Riley, who breaks down artistic expression, social justice, community organizing, hip hop, and education from the 2019 Revolutionary Summer Mixtape!

76. Growth Game and Gratitude

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 24 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

The most anticipated break in the history of public education is finally upon us. In the most chaotic moment that either of can remember, with a future that is hazy at best, Kevin and Gerardo take some needed "us" time for their relationship. No guest this week means that we chop it up like we used to. We discuss what teaching, learning, and evaluation should look like in this moment, share an less toxic approach to our work as teachers, and conversate about the news of the day, especially the sudden resignation of Superintendent Susana Cordova days ago. We close off by expressing what great and terrible building leadership has looked like during our long and storied careers before demanding that our BIPOC people bum-rush the NCTE call for proposals.

Please follow us @TooDopeTeachers on IG and Twitter, like us on Facebook, and email us toodopeteachers@gmail.com. See our Twitter and Facebook profiles to support this important work.

Episode 74: Olivia Meikle of What's Her Name

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

On this historic weekend, we talk to Olivia Meikle, have of the dynamic duo that hosts the incredible "What's Her Name?" podcast. On this historic day, Olivia shares with us what motivates her and Dr. Katie Nelson to publish a true labor of love and scholarship which aims to tell amazing stories of women you never heard of. Moving deeper than the traditional list of important women in history, What's Her Name highlights amazing women from every time period and every continent. Fun, entertaining, and engrossing, Olivia is all of the above. Join us for this very celebratory moment of firsts, smiles, and cupcakes--but only for the winners!

75. Racial Battle Fatigue with Asia Lyons

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 04:00:00 -0500

Not too long ago, Asia Lyons found herself at a career crossroads. By introducing social justice curriculum, she landed in hot water with her school leadership. Now, having been away from the classroom and running her own consulting business, Lyons Educational Consulting, Asia has started her doctoral research on Racial Battle Fatigue. Teachers of color, and Black teachers in particular, face institutional racism at work, and the fatigue and frustration doesn't end at 3:00. When they come home, they must find ways to engage with friends, family, and loved ones. This is exhausting, and Asia shares her insights on an issue that has not been researched nearly enough.

Episode 52: Live at #TOCA19!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 21 Nov 2019 23:26:38 -0500

Kevin and Gerardo are LIVE at the Teachers of Color and Allies summit at the University of Colorado! Following the incredible act of Dr. Eve Ewing, author of Ghosts in the Schoolyard, the fellas unpack #teacherlife in November. With an energetic audience and teachers of many backgrounds and experience levels, we try to make sense of our lives in trying times. Be strong, check us out!

Episode 52: Live at #TOCA19!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 21 Nov 2019 23:26:38 -0500

Episode 51: Hold Down the Block

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 22:06:01 -0400

The block is hot! In difficult times, when performance ratings, electoral tension locally and globally, and a high level of professional and institutional anxiety threaten our very spiritual happiness, it is critical that we circle back to why we started. Young Kev and Young Gera are back, full of code-switching idealistic fervor, to remind the old fellas why they continue to do this work. Who are we? Who are we becoming? And how do we weather the storm and remain standing. The block is hot, lots of danger and fear, but we are out here to hold it down.

Episode 51: Hold Down the Block

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 22:06:01 -0400

Episode 50! Fitty! And the Struggle is Beautiful!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 13 Oct 2019 14:41:32 -0400

IT IS OUR 50TH EPISODE, Y'ALL. FITTY! The boyz are back, checking in after a hard few weeks. We discuss the new bad weather policy in the district, the impending school ratings, and adopting a mindset of solidarity with our students as we navigate accountability measures within a political climate that has no doubt elevaned stress, anxiety, and trauma for our most vulnerable families and communities. Maybe we're a little short on substance today, but maybe enthusiasm and positivity is what we need right now.

Episode 50! Fitty! And the Struggle is Beautiful!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sun, 13 Oct 2019 14:41:32 -0400

Episode 49: Back to Skool!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 12 Sep 2019 15:14:26 -0400

It's Back to School night for the fellas, and before we meet parents and members of our larger community, we reflect on the first month of the 2019-2020 school year. What are we discovering? What are we as a community not yet good at? Also, get a sneak preview of the stuff we're gettin into, including a presentation at the Colorado Thespian Educators conference, as well as our upcoming hosting of the amazing Taina Asili. Plus contribute to an ongoing discussion by following the hashtag #ImDiscoveringThat. Subscribe and listen today!

Episode 49: Back to Skool!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 12 Sep 2019 15:14:26 -0400

Season 4 Premiere! (Back to) School Daze, Episode 48!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 22:57:41 -0400

The boyz are back, can you believe it? Neither can they. The summer is over, and the new school year has hit us like a freight train! But through the mayhem of understanding the school focus, making sense of a post- (and maybe pre-) strike world, and a teaching world that calls upon us to do even more in the name of justice, we can say emphatically that WE OUT HERE. We chop it up about out focus, hopes, and dreams for the new school year, and do our best to make you feel excited. Subscribe, download, and listen NOW! Or you'll get a detention. For real. No Restorative Practices here...

Season 4 Premiere! (Back to) School Daze, Episode 48!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 22:57:41 -0400

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 8, Episode 48: Taina Asili

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 14:43:43 -0400

A very special guest, on the heels of a rousing and inspirational performance at the end of the NEA Conference on Racial and Social Justice, Recording artist and advocateTaina Asili has been refining her music and her community activism for decades. The child of artist-educator-activists, she embodies the life well-lived: advocacy for your community, solidarity with communities in struggle, crisis, or oppression, using your gifts to do so. Gerardo has been listening to her music for years, thanks to a friend’s recommendation, and this conversation is a seamless and exciting view into the life of an advocate, activist, educator, revolutionary.

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 8, Episode 48: Taina Asili

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 14:43:43 -0400

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 7, Episode 47: MapSO Freedom School

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 14:31:42 -0400

When the system fails to meet the needs of our young people, we have a choice to make. But sometimes their needs are so invisible to people in power that we need to go it alone. Meet the courageous Freedom Educators of the MAPSO Freedom School, in the joint South Orange-Maplewood School District, serving two municipalities in Essex County, New Jersey. In the tradition of the Freedom Schools during the struggle against Segregation, these fearless teachers established a program designed to support students working their way through modern-day struggles for educational and social justice. They were alone at first, but when the MapSO district learned how effective the Freedom School’s work was, they accepted them.

The only guests on this mixtape that Kevin climbed over tables and chairs before the keynote to recruit.

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 7, Episode 47: MapSO Freedom School

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 14:31:42 -0400

The only guests on this mixtape that Kevin climbed over tables and chairs before the keynote to recruit.

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 6, Episode 46: Flint's Own Jesyca Mathews

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 14:15:20 -0400

Sometimes the struggle finds us and we have a decision to make. Meet Jesyca Mathews, Language Arts teacher out of Flint, Michigan, who has not only engaged in the fight for clean water, a basic human need, but has also helped her students to raise their voices and power to fight. Though things have improved somewhat, the water crisis in Flint is far from resolved. After 1,912 days without clean water (counting--at the time of this post), the people of Flint are still subjected to unclean tap water, and still need bottled water and filters for basic needs. This energetic, fun, and fierce conversation is just what is possible when we listen to students and help them access tools they need to transform their lives and communities. We cannot let them feel the way her students felt when she began this adventure: “They forgot about us.” Never again. Listen today, and hang to the end for ways to support the people in Flint.

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 6, Episode 46: Flint's Own Jesyca Mathews

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 14:15:20 -0400

#TooDope #Revolutionaries Mixtape Track 5, Episode 45: Undocumented and Unafraid

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 11:15:53 -0400

During Track 3 of our summer #Revolutionaries #Mixtape series, we chop it up with Karen Reyes-Lozano, DACA teacher from Austin, Texas. She speaks openly and honestly about the importance of sharing our narratives and advocating for systemic and ideological change in the treatment and opportunities we expose our undocumented youth to. This is an episode of laughter and tears as the courageous Karen shares her inspiring path to outspoken, loud and proud activism and advocacy. A symbol of a new era in which undocumented individuals have emerged from the shadows, rejecting anonymity and invisibility, she is at the forefront of the fight which will likely define our society for the next generation. Recorded live at the NEA Racial and Social Justice Conference on July 1, 2019 in Houston, TX.

#TooDope #Revolutionaries Mixtape Track 5, Episode 45: Undocumented and Unafraid

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 11:15:53 -0400

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 4, Episode 44: Lunch Interlude

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 10:56:12 -0400

The fellas take a breather after a morning of incredible conversations with revolutionary educators, whose work is redefining what it means to be an engaged educator, public intellectual, and public servant. You will hear previews from some conversations, reviews of others, and we attempt to synthesize what it all means for us in our work and in our lives as members of our communities. This one might set a record for our shortest episode, but if you are needing encouragement and perspective in these difficult times, give this a listen.

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 4, Episode 44: Lunch Interlude

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 10:56:12 -0400

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 3, Episode 43: Terry Jess and Micah Kruser

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 10:46:00 -0400

Our summer #Revolutionaries #Mixtape rolls on with our conversation with Terry Jess and Micah Kruser, who will discuss effective and disruptive white allyship, as well as the roll that white educators may play in supporting students of color. We all aspire to the level of collaboration and partnership modeled by Terry and Micah, don't miss this one. Recorded live in Houston at the National Education Association's Conference on Racial and Social Justice in Houston, TX on July 1, 2019.

To white educators, their message is no excuses, they, along with Luke Michener, have begun the work. Check out their youtube channel for some #RealPD!

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 3, Episode 43: Terry Jess and Micah Kruser

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 10:46:00 -0400

To white educators, their message is no excuses, they, along with Luke Michener, have begun the work. Check out their youtube channel for some #RealPD!

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 2, Episode 42: Boots Riley!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 10:32:05 -0400

Sorry to Bother You, but our summer mixtape rolls on! This track features the incredible revolutionary artist Boots Riley! Best known for the landmark film Sorry to Bother You, Boots has been a mainstay in grassroots movements all over the world. Raised by community-minded revolutionaries, Boots eventually became identified with the rebel hip hop collective The Coup, and has amplified people's movements all over the world.

As keynote speaker, Boots graciously agreed to spend 40 minutes with us to discuss the intersections of schooling, art, activism, and community organizing. We discuss the state of community organizing, schooling, and hip hop.

This interview was made possible by the National Education Association's Shilpa Reddy and Stephanie Luongo, during the NEA Conference on Racial and Social Justice, as part of our live show in the NEA Organizing Studio.

Six tracks remain on our #Revolutionary #Intersectional #Mixtape. Keep it locked right here. No texting. (listen to the episode for that joke)

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 2, Episode 42: Boots Riley!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 10:32:05 -0400

Six tracks remain on our #Revolutionary #Intersectional #Mixtape. Keep it locked right here. No texting. (listen to the episode for that joke)

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 9, Episode 49: Priya Vulchi and Winona Guo

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 15 Jul 2019 23:05:00 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo sit down for an energizing and inspiring discussion with Priya Vulchi and Winona Guo, co-Founders of Choose and co-authors of two books, most recently Tell Me Who You Are, and exploration of identity in the United States. As fifteen-year-old sophomores, these two young scholars were introduced to conversations about racial conflict following the death of Eric Garner at the hands of police. They were hit hard by the fact that racial identity and conflict had not been introduced to them previously, though they had both experienced discrimination. Their shock quickly evolved into determination to improve the quality of racial conversations in classrooms, and to develop a model for racial literacy, enabling all Americans to engage in deeper, more meaningful and progressive conversations around race.

They did all this while still enrolled in high school. Now college students, they have a thriving non-profit organization, two books they have co-authored, and two TED talks, all of which may be found here https://www.chooseorg.org/. Tell Me Who You are has found its way into classrooms in 40 states, and they remain traveling, committed, and energized in their fight for racial literacy. Listen to this one, and see how the torch of social justice continues to be passed.

#TooDope #Revolutionaries #Mixtape Track 9, Episode 49: Priya Vulchi and Winona Guo

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 15 Jul 2019 23:05:00 -0400

#TooDope #Revolutionaries Mixtape Track 1 Episode 41: Black Lives Matter in School

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 11 Jul 2019 18:07:00 -0400

The fellas are finally back after a long layoff! Summer is here, and is a time for reflection, recharging, and anxiety dreams about the first day of school, all while trying to complete long-overdue projects in the house, to say nothing of restoring relationships to our significant others and families which may have been broken during the turbulent 2018-2019 school year...but we digress.

This episode is the first track from our #Revolutionaries #Mixtape, our live shows from the NEA's Racial and Social Justice Conference in Houston, Texas on July 1 and 2. We have the incredible honor of sitting with Jesse Hagopian, co-editor of Rethinking Schools' Teaching for Black Lives, Kaitlin Kamalei, and Bruce Jackson, all public school teachers in the great state of Washington, and who were instrumental in a number of successful initiatives in the Seattle area, including the statewide optout of testing, the creation of an Ethnic Studies graduation requirement, and the establishment of an Ethnic Studies support office in administration. They discuss what they have learned from participating in community action, and offer insights and lessons on would-be educator-activists in a fun and inspirational conversation.

The #revolutionaries #mixtape will include five hours of tracks, and will feature our conversations on educational justice with revolutionaries from all over our educational landscape. Amazing people doing amazing work from coast to coast will share their ideas. Enjoy!

#TooDope #Revolutionaries Mixtape Track 1 Episode 41: Black Lives Matter in School

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 11 Jul 2019 18:07:00 -0400

Episode 40: Henry Roman

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 22:11:21 -0400

The fellas are back from Spring Break, and we sit down with Henry Roman, incumbent president of the Denver Classroom Teachers Association. It has been a turbulent and tense 2019, and he shares his thoughts on the 2019 strike, his decision to run for re-election, and his vision for the Denver Teachers' union.

Episode 40: Henry Roman

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 22:11:21 -0400

Episode 39: Introducing BHOOF Hip Hop Podcast!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 20 Mar 2019 23:48:00 -0400

The fellas are back this week to introduce Phillip and Omar, co-hosts of the BHOOF Hip Hop podcast, and 11th graders at the Denver Center for International Studies. These young fellas have a voice and a set of opinions, and discuss Hip Hop's Drill movement. We discuss podcasting, violence in hip-hop, Chicago, and the Boxer Rebellion. Yes, you read that correctly. Listen today!

Episode 39: Introducing BHOOF Hip Hop Podcast!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 20 Mar 2019 23:48:00 -0400

Episode 38- A More Perfect Union

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 16:12:35 -0400

Despite the SnowPocalypse, the fellas are back to have a conversation with Tiffany Choi, teacher at Denver East High School who is running for President of the Denver Classroom Teachers Association. As part of the Caucus of Today's Teachers within DCTA, she has advocated for a more democratic and more justice-focused union for Denver Teachers. She describes her experiences that led her to this candidacy, including her account of a school closure, and offers a vision for a union that is focused on support and development of community schools. Subscribe and listen today!

Episode 38- A More Perfect Union

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 16:12:35 -0400

Speak Freedom! Episode 3: Women's History Month

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 21:45:16 -0500

In this week's episode, Gerardo and Allison discuss the importance of Women's History Month and all that comes with it, or should. Allison shares her experiences in the classroom, and Gerardo discusses the implications of a feminist framework of teaching. Both teacher and student discuss the importance of representation and intersectional feminism, even drawing upon the importance of Men's History Day to strength resistance to patriarchy. Subscribe and listen today!

Speak Freedom! Episode 3: Women's History Month

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 21:45:16 -0500

Speak Freedom Episode 2: Access and Power

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 21:15:14 -0500

Carmen, Allison, and Gerardo are back for their second episode of the Speak Freedom! Podcast. In this episode, posted waaaay after it was recorded, the trio discusses a return from winter break, and the demands on students and teachers. We discuss access to academic support and college readiness, and the long way we all still need to go to allow all students the opportunity for success.

Speak Freedom Episode 2: Access and Power

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 21:15:14 -0500

Episode 37: Still Out Here!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 20:59:29 -0500

The fellas are back post-strike! Today they discuss life after the strike and the continued quest for justice in public schools. Subscribe today!

Episode 37: Still Out Here!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 20:59:29 -0500

The fellas are back post-strike! Today they discuss life after the strike and the continued quest for justice in public schools. Subscribe today!

Episode 36: When We Fight, We Win!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 12:41:00 -0500

The fellas are back, and it's gettin' real! The block is hot, with nearly 4,000 teachers taking to the streets of Denver, demanding fair pay. We try to make sense of this historical moment, one of national significance, and decompress after a full day of marching, chanting, connecting, and, for the third time since April, MCing a teacher rally on the steps of the capital. The emotion, the hope, the cautious optimism of a new moment are all on deck here. A must-listen for teachers and community members looking to debrief!

Emergency Episode: The Next Movement

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 24 Jan 2019 22:53:11 -0500

Kev and Gera are here with an emergency show. The Denver Classroom Teachers Association has voted overwhelmingly to strike. The ball is now in the court of Governor Jared Polis. The fellas get worked up and share their thoughts on the strike vote and its implications for our society. They get in their feelings, they ruminate on the democratic ideal and discuss the role of dissent in a vibrant and powerful democracy. This is the next movement.

Episode 34: Enough.

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 22:59:43 -0500

Kevin and Gerardo sit down to discuss current labor disputes all over the country in which teachers are involved. Denver's teachers have 48 hours left in their current contract, and the first strike in a quarter of a century could be on the horizon. Old Kev and Old Gera welcome in two guests, Young Kev and Young Gera, and talk about the importance of standing up, even when you're new, even when you're scared. Plus a balanced diet of silly and somber. A lot packed into this time, this is a must-listen!

Episode 33: Restore and Renew

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 11 Jan 2019 20:33:32 -0500

Happy New Year to all y'all! The fellas are back, fresh from the break, to discuss Restorative Practices. As schools attempt to move away from suspensions and other punitive responses to students' negative behaviors, we are left with questions: how to respond? How to help keep students accountable for their behaviors? How to build community and relationships? Today we welcome you back with silliness and a frank discussion about Restorative Justice, or "RJ." Subscribe and listen today!

Episode 32: Decolonize Your AP Class!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 23:05:00 -0500

Kevin and Gerardo welcome two dope AP teachers, Jennifer Boyle Taurman and Bram Hubbell, author and curator of the Paperless History blog. Like the civil service exams of Classical China, Advanced Placement was College Board's effort to provide a rigorous curriculum to students who needed the challenge. The test don't lie, they argued, and any student with a qualifying score, regardless of race, gender or socioeconomic background, could earn college credits and save money. However, it has become clear that AP classes carry with them expectations and constructions of what makes a good student, what success looks like, and who is represented in the curricula. Though we mainly discuss history classes, we hope these conversations begin happening in AP courses generally. Some great laughs and insight, and Gerardo forgets what city we're in, along with Kevin as a T-Rex.

Episode 31: If it Ain't (That) Broke...

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 28 Nov 2018 20:39:51 -0500

The fellas are back! In this episode, Kevin and Gerardo challenge the conventional wisdom that the school system is broken. As pundits, politicians, and profiteers line their pockets convincing that the public schools are in need of a total overhaul, we try to put the brakes on this gravy train and ask the question: Is the system really broken? Or is the system only a reflection of greater ills and inequities that play out in school. This is a yelling episode, be forewarned. In addition, Kevin's complaining corner and Gerardo gets petty. All that, and breakfast.

Episode 30: TooDope Supe?

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 19:48:55 -0400

Join Gerardo and intern Sofia as they talk with Denver Public Schools candidate for superintendant Susana Cordova. Hear her story, and the challenges and inspiration she experienced in her journey from native Spanish speaker to the highest ranking LatinX person in Denver Public Schools, and why she decided to throw her name into the hat for the vacant superintendent job in the most visible district in Colorado. Listen today!

Speak Freedom! Pilot

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 19:14:25 -0400

Welcome to the Speak Freedom Project, where teachers and students come together to discuss pedagogies of liberation! Join Allison, Carmen, and Too Dope Teachers and a Mic's Gerardo Muñoz as they engage in rare and unfiltered discussions about how school is experienced by students and teachers alike. Speak Freedom is dedicated to education as the practice of freedom. How can school be a place where people who are not yet free may prepare for freedom? Check us out!

Episode 29: All These Ts of C in One Place??

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 19:00:00 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo catch up on the University of Colorado's Teachers of Color and Allies summit. This episode is why this podcast exists. Join us as we talk about this amazing gathering of teachers of color and next steps in building a community. Complete with toodope teacher interviews! Download and listen today!

Episode 28: All the World's a Too Dope Stage

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 18:45:01 -0400

This week the fellas are joined this week by Caroline and Judd of the Create-Perform-Respond blog, two dope high school theater teachers whose sole purpose is to make the performance arts accessible to all. Hear our conversation about equity, access and opportunities for young people in the arts. Plus all four of us list our top five musicals (Kevin may not hate them as much as we thought). Listen today!

Episode 27: Hispanic Heritage Half Months

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 23:19:54 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo are back with another surprise episode! In today's platica, we are joined by student guest host Sofia, who offers her thoughts on Identity, the complexity of "Hispanic" or "LatinX" identity and this time of year, when many of us know that it is Hispanic Heritage month but few of us do more than a passing acknowledgment before getting back to "real" content. A fun and energetic episode with a rising young podcaster!

New Dope Teachers, Episode 1

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 22 Sep 2018 16:22:02 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo kick off New Dope Teachers, stories of new and early-service teachers of color as they navigate all the intersections of this important work. We begin our year-long story of Ray, a first year kindergarten teacher. He discusses his Teach for America experience, the unique demands and pressures facing new teachers of color, and his care and concern for the youngsters in his charge. Listen today!

Episode 26: Be Yourself?

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 17 Sep 2018 21:48:01 -0400

The fellas are back to address code-switching, abolishing fear, and the challenges faced by teachers and students of color. They don't care anymore, and want you to listen.

Episode 24: Survive and Commence!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 23 May 2018 23:02:26 -0400

The fellas are back from Chicago, all fired up and ready to go! Summer is upon us, just a few days before we cash in our overtime for the year. We discuss concluding a school year, Kev tears up about his graduating seniors, Gera complains but ultimately gets positive. Also, we shout out new Twitter followers, and talk about the incredible conference put on by the Journey for Justice Alliance. Plus, Gera is all about musicals, Kev not so much. Download and listen today!

Episode 23: Don't Fake the Funk!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 02 May 2018 23:10:03 -0400

The fellas are back with a late-year episode! As teacher protests swept the country in April, the boyz were onhand to absorb the energy and bear witness to a movement of public intellectuals and allies all over the community. We break down the movement, push the envelope, and try to keep it together for the conclusion of the school year.

Episode 21: Where the Heroes At? Black Panther and Testing Season

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 23:39:34 -0500

Kevin and Gerardo saw Black Panther and now they're on one. It is testing season, and here is how teachers of color can support each other, support students, and do the impossible. To support and encourage our community in these trying times of accountability and pressure. Plus Gerardo learns what a true homie is.

Episode 20: Hire Us!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 22:57:27 -0500

Kevin and Gerardo open up hiring season with some thoughts on recruiting and retaining teachers of color. Plus, a gathering you don't want to miss!

Episode 19: TooDope Resolutions!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 27 Jan 2018 09:42:44 -0500

Kevin and Gerardo are BACK for 2018 with our first episode of the new year. Listen as we discuss our New Year's Justice Resolutions, what it means to be an antiracist teacher, and an emerging group of justice-oriented teachers of color in this city and beyond. Subscribe today!

Episode 18: Too Dope Students REMIXED for MLK Day!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 15 Jan 2018 17:47:00 -0500

Too Dope Teachers open the new year with a #JusticeMonday #MLKedition with a panel of fantastic scholar-activists from a local high school! In our first live show, thanks to the Colorado Education Association, the young activists discuss their work in the community, their struggles, and their optimism in light of Dr. King's legacy. Don't miss this one!

Episode 17: All in the Same Gang?

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 01 Dec 2017 08:07:59 -0500

Kevin and Gerardo are back, and have some feelings about gang awareness professional development, particularly when presented by law enforcement. The fellas discuss holistic understanding of street organizations, their presence in schools, and the value and empathy we place on our students' communities...as well as our own. Plus, we are approaching episode 20! Let us know how to commemorate the occasion!

Episode 16: Justice Monday! and the Season for Cultural Appropriation

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 23:36:23 -0500

Kevin and Gerardo are back, broadcasting from the principal's office, with new music and a new attitude! Today, on #JusticeMonday, we discuss the importance of standing up for and with our students, and check in before a week off. It is also a dangerous season: between Halloween and Thanksgiving, cultural appropriation is rife, and we attempt a useful but honest conversation about a damaging practice in far too many schools. Plus, Kevin interviews Gerardo about his participation in the New York Marathon.

Episode 15: Conference Season, Being Present and Responsive, and Conscious Halloween Costumes

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 23:01:43 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo drop a surprise episode on Halloween! Much to discuss, including how we best engage during the most wonderful time of the year: parent-teacher conferences. Is there a solution? What about the parents that just show up, without an appointment? Why don't some parents attend? And what special responsibility do teachers of color have to connect with families? Plus, conscious costuming on Halloween, and showing up to do silly stuff for and with the students.

Episode 14: Back in "Studio"

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 22:15:53 -0400

Join Kevin and Gerardo as they make their triumphant return! We discuss losing studio space, continued research supporting the importance of teachers of color, weird stuff kids do, and teaching in a time of great political, social, and cultural tension. Listen today!

Episode 13: Back to Skool Catharsis!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 10:41:37 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo are back for the 2017-2018 school year with an episode inaccurately titled Catharsis. This episode represents a turning point from negative to positive, from vacation to work, from fear and stress to inspiration and encouragement. We discuss Charlottesville, staying #woke and teaching for justice in a time that desperately needs it.

Episode 12: Julie Bañuelos

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 07 Aug 2017 13:34:18 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo are back from summer vacation, and the block is hot! In this episode, we sit down with Denver Board of Education at-large candidate Julie Bañuelos, as she charts her path from border town to teacher to public servant. She tells an inspiring story of adversity, focus, reflection, and seeking to serve. Subscribe and listen today!

Episode 11: School's Out!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Sat, 03 Jun 2017 09:39:20 -0400

Gerardo and Kevin reflect on the year past, discuss ways #TooDope teachers can spend their summer, and look to the 2017-2018 school year. Kevin shares his plan of action, Gerardo tries to see that his glass is half-full, and Kevin complains.

Episode 10: Professor MCs

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Wed, 17 May 2017 00:30:56 -0400

Kevin and Gerardo return from their mid-spring hiatus to discuss what's been goin' on, Teachin' Trump, and an end-of-year rant. Shout out to #WuTangTeacherTribe!

Episode 9: Wu-Tang Style!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 17:08:22 -0400

Kevin (aka Irate Observer) and Gerardo (aka Tha Hunter) host a roundtable of #TooDopeTeachers, including Smiling Prophet, Thunderous Mercenary, Expert Assassin, Queen Ill Figure, Medianoche Comandante, Erratic Criminal, and Xpert Commander to discuss the lives, experiences, and hopes of teachers of color. This one is loud, silly, powerful, and important. Plus Complaining Corner and Shout Outs.

Episode 8: Digital Natives

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 00:43:49 -0500

Kevin and Gerardo sit down to discuss the work of teachers with classrooms full of "digital natives." How many conversations has your staff had about electronic devices? We have a generation of students for whom life without mobile phones, computers, and internet is a distant and foreign thing. Kevin chops it up, defining digital natives, digital pioneers, and digital dinosaurs. Which are you? How will you work to ensure that young people become responsible users of mobile devices and technology? Plus, Teachin' Trump, Gera's Complaining Corner, Challenge-based learning, victories, defeats, and another call to #StayDope.

Kickin' 'em out!

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Fri, 03 Feb 2017 19:51:51 -0500

Gerardo and Kevin are back! We introduce our new segment, "Teachin' Trump" to reflect upon the Trump Administration's recent moves which may impact our students, particularly the confirmation hearings of Betsy DeVos, as well as immigration in this administration. Then, the fellas interrogate the age-old practice of kicking misbehaving children out of class. One of your hosts shares a story about being kicked out of class. Listen and find out!

#TooDope Students

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 20:58:17 -0500

Gerardo and Kevin drop a surprise episode! In Episode 4, #TooDope Students, we sit down with four Denver high school students who have attempted to address issues of race in their school, recently completing a "Social Justice Spirit Week" at their school. These young people are #TooDope!