Articulating - An Independent School Podcast

With AI now more accessible than ever, its impact on learning and educational equity is rapidly evolving. This series will share hidden challenges, real-world use cases, and actionable strategies for navigating the future of AI in education.This is the last of three episodes and focuses on responsible AI use for parents.ABOUT AMBER BERRYAmber Berry is a trailblazer in the field of AI and education, serving as the inaugural Vice President of AI and Strategy for Middle States Association (MSA). In this role, Amber cofounded RAIL: Responsible AI in Learning, shaping the future of accreditation and school improvement. With over 15 years of school experience spanning both public and independent education, she has held positions of increasing responsibility, including Division Head and Director of Teaching Fellows at St. Luke's School in Connecticut.Amber's thought leadership in responsible AI adoption is grounded in her rich educational background. A graduate of Princeton University with a B.A. in French & Italian, she earned her M.A. in Linguistics and Pedagogy from Middlebury College and an M.Ed. in Private School Leadership from Columbia University. Most recently, she added a Mini-MBA in AI for Business to her impressive credentials, amplifying her expertise in leveraging AI for strategic innovation.Amber is a sought-after speaker, an advocate for equitable AI practices, and a member of Excelle Collective for women in educational leadership. At home, she balances her roles as a devoted mom, NFL wife, and active community leader, inspiring others to embrace transformation in every sphere of life.Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

With AI now more accessible than ever, its impact on learning and educational equity is rapidly evolving. This series will share hidden challenges, real-world use cases, and actionable strategies for navigating the future of AI in education.This is the second of three episodes and focuses on responsible AI use for students.ABOUT AMBER BERRYAmber Berry is a trailblazer in the field of AI and education, serving as the inaugural Vice President of AI and Strategy for Middle States Association (MSA). In this role, Amber cofounded RAIL: Responsible AI in Learning, shaping the future of accreditation and school improvement. With over 15 years of school experience spanning both public and independent education, she has held positions of increasing responsibility, including Division Head and Director of Teaching Fellows at St. Luke's School in Connecticut.Amber's thought leadership in responsible AI adoption is grounded in her rich educational background. A graduate of Princeton University with a B.A. in French & Italian, she earned her M.A. in Linguistics and Pedagogy from Middlebury College and an M.Ed. in Private School Leadership from Columbia University. Most recently, she added a Mini-MBA in AI for Business to her impressive credentials, amplifying her expertise in leveraging AI for strategic innovation.Amber is a sought-after speaker, an advocate for equitable AI practices, and a member of Excelle Collective for women in educational leadership. At home, she balances her roles as a devoted mom, NFL wife, and active community leader, inspiring others to embrace transformation in every sphere of life.Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

With AI now more accessible than ever, its impact on learning and educational equity is rapidly evolving. This series will share hidden challenges, real-world use cases, and actionable strategies for navigating the future of AI in education.This is the first of three episodes and focuses on responsible AI use for schools.ABOUT AMBER BERRYAmber Berry is a trailblazer in the field of AI and education, serving as the inaugural Vice President of AI and Strategy for Middle States Association (MSA). In this role, Amber cofounded RAIL: Responsible AI in Learning, shaping the future of accreditation and school improvement. With over 15 years of school experience spanning both public and independent education, she has held positions of increasing responsibility, including Division Head and Director of Teaching Fellows at St. Luke's School in Connecticut.Amber's thought leadership in responsible AI adoption is grounded in her rich educational background. A graduate of Princeton University with a B.A. in French & Italian, she earned her M.A. in Linguistics and Pedagogy from Middlebury College and an M.Ed. in Private School Leadership from Columbia University. Most recently, she added a Mini-MBA in AI for Business to her impressive credentials, amplifying her expertise in leveraging AI for strategic innovation.Amber is a sought-after speaker, an advocate for equitable AI practices, and a member of Excelle Collective for women in educational leadership. At home, she balances her roles as a devoted mom, NFL wife, and active community leader, inspiring others to embrace transformation in every sphere of life.Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Articulating co-hosts return to the virtual studio with a major update that will shape the future of the podcast. Co-written by Sam Osborne and Tyler Woods Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

'Twas the week before Christmas, and you still haven't done your holiday shopping yet. But hold your reindeer! We've got a special bonus episode featuring Christine Platt, author of the Afrominimalist guide to Living with Less.  This is a must-listen for those who wish to tackle overconsumption and inspire their students to embrace a more minimilast and intentional lifestyle! ABOUT CHRISTINE PLATT A multi-genre author and advocate for representation and inclusion, Christine Platt has carved a unique path in literature, lifestyle, and wellness. Also known as the Afrominimalist, Christine's work centers on honoring Black voices and experiences—past, present, and future. She holds a B.A. in Africana Studies from the University of South Florida, M.A. in African and African American Studies from The Ohio State University, and J.D. from Stetson University College of Law.  Christine's literary works include the influential adult titles 'The Afrominimalist's Guide to Living With Less' and 'Rebecca, Not Becky', and the beloved children's series that teaches kids about media literacy, 'Frankie & Friends'. Her multifaceted career in advocacy spans working as a Senior Policy Advisor for the U.S. Department of Energy to Managing Director of American University's Antiracism Center to Director of Communications for Rihanna's nonprofit, The Clara Lionel Foundation. Christine is a member of the Association of Writers and Writing Programs, Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, Association of Black Women Historians, and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. She also serves as an Ambassador for Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Have you contemplated sending your student to an all-Black school? Patricia Hogan Williams is Head of the Imani School, the largest black independent school in the U.S. Founded in 1988, the school serves 100% African American students and emphasizes faith, confidence, and self-belief. Williams highlights the importance of setting high expectations and providing a nurturing environment that fosters academic excellence and self-worth. The school's curriculum includes African American history and literature, aiming to instill pride and competence in students. Williams stresses the critical role of education in empowering black children and the need for intentionality in their learning environment.  ABOUT PATRICIA HOGAN WILLIAMS A graduate of Fisk University, Patricia Hogan Williams has more than 40 years of experience as an educator with students from preschool classrooms to university campuses. She is the Founding Head and Executive Director of The Imani School — now the largest independent, predominantly African American private Christian school in the nation, serving students from preschool through eighth grade. Williams continues to be the driving force behind the school's progression, prevailing at the school's helm since 1988. The institution has grown to include more than 350 students across pre-kinder, elementary, and middle school grade levels, receiving national and international recognition for its success in developing self-confidence and academic excellence in African-American children. Mrs. Williams also serves as an adjunct professor in Child Development at Texas Southern University, where she helps sow into the next generation of educators. For her commitment to improving the lives of children and youth, Williams has received numerous honors and awards including: U.S. News and World Report's “Twelve Indispensable Americans''; “Current History Maker” by KHOU –TV; the Distinguished Woman Award from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated; Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church's Audrey A. Lawson Impact Award winner; the American Heart Association Award of Excellence as well as its Outstanding Educator Award; the National Association for Financial Assistance to Minority Students' Outstanding Educator Award; Links, Inc. Western Area for Outstanding Services to Youth; Texas Southern University Award for Excellent Service; and the Community Service Award from the Top Ladies of Distinction. Williams is the wife of Attorney Connie B. Williams, and the proud mother of three sons, Brian, founder of Step Afrika, the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping; Christopher, owner of Lucille's Hospitality Group, which includes nationally acclaimed restaurant Lucille's and its non-profit Lucille's 1913; and Benjamin, the co-owner of Highway Vodka, the country's first of its kind spirit crafted with hemp seed. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating! Special thanks to Vibrant Health for sponsoring this episode of Articulating! We're thrilled to share an exclusive 20% discount for our listeners. Use code ARTIC20 and take a step toward vibrant living!

When was the last time you read for 30 minutes straight? Uninterrupted? Ramon Javier, Head of School at George Jackson Academy, joins Articulating to discuss the importance of literacy in academic success, developing empathy, and building critical thinking skills. Listen for strategies on how to foster a love for reading not only for your scholar but also yourself!  ABOUT RAMON Ramón is a lifelong New Yorker, proud of his Afro-Latinx roots. A member of Prep for Prep, Ramón graduated from The Hackley School, Williams College, and received his Ed.M from Teachers College, Columbia University. He worked for Prep for Prep, The TEAK Fellowship, KIPP, Packer Collegiate, and The Trinity School in a variety of leadership roles. He also served on the NYSAIS Diversity Committee for six years.  Ramón sits on the boards of the International Boys' Schools Coalition, the New York State Association of Independent Schools. He is also a  member of the Education Committee of the Grace Church School Board of Trustees and sits on the Advisory Board of Parents In Action. Ramón is in his third year as Head of School at George Jackson Academy. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Gina and Sam sit down with Summer Love and Gabby Mclain, co-presidents of the Black Student Coalition (BSC), a thriving network serving over 500 students across New York and New Jersey. Summer is a senior at the Chapin School. At school, Summer is the DEIB president, student a cappella co-director, member of the speech and debate team, a singer in the rock band, and a student admissions ambassador. Her passion for connection and identity-based social justice work is exemplified in her work as the Co-President and Events Team Leader of the Black Student Coalition. The Black Student Coalition is a student-led group that supports the personal, academic, profesional, and social growth of over 500 Black students attending PWIs across 14 states. Fun fact, Summer is double jointed in both of her hands! Gabrielle McLain, a Senior at Horace Mann School, is Co-President and Newsletter Manager of the Black Student Coalition, a 500-member student-led nonprofit that celebrates culture, connections and community amongst Black high school students at PWIs in the New York tri-state area. In addition to BSC, Gabrielle is President of The Union at Horace Mann, which promotes inclusion and belonging for HM's Black student population. Gabrielle is also a Freshman Orientation Peer Leader, an editor of three student publications, and an afterschool tutor. Gabrielle, a social justice advocate, spent a semester in Washington, DC at The School for Ethics and Global Leadership, where she studied the complexities of geopolitical issues, followed by a summer at Yale Young Global Scholars program in the Solving Global Challenges cohort. Gabrielle is currently a Research and Teaching Assistant for Professor Timothy Adkins-Jones of Union Theological Seminary, where she is researching women's contributions to Bloody Sunday of the Civil Rights Movement and crafting a youth itinerary for the annual commemoration event in Selma, Alabama. In her free time, Gabby likes to bake and spend time with her beloved Lab, Polo. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Dr. Kay De Simone, a wealth mindset coach and complex trauma psychotherapist, joins Articulating to discuss the concept of imposter syndrome in the context of independent schools. Imposter syndrome is often fueled by external factors such as societal biases and institutional practices rather than individual shortcomings.  Dr. De Simone shares tools and strategies families can use to support their children so they can build confidence and resilience, and also self-advocate in educational settings. ABOUT DR. DE SIMONE Dr. Kay De Simone is a mental wellness expert, university professor, complex trauma therapist, researcher, and TEDx presenter with over two decades of experience supporting high achievers in competitive educational and professional environments. As a parent of daughters who have attended independent schools, she brings both personal and professional insight into the unique challenges faced by students and families in these high-pressure settings. Dr. De Simone is also an avid volunteer, fundraiser, and active contributor to independent school communities. A sought-after paid speaker, she focuses on mental wellness, wealth mindset, and developing strategies that help individuals not only survive but thrive in demanding environments. With a passion for leveling up skills, navigating complex trauma successfully, and helping individuals rise to their  moment, Dr. De Simone empowers students and families to achieve sustainable success while cultivating emotional well-being and personal fulfillment. Outside of her professional life, Dr. De Simone has a deep love for fashion, art, and building a lasting legacy through meaningful contributions and personal growth. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Sam Osborne and Gina Parker Collins explore the growing trend of engagement events at Martha's Vineyard, a popular vacation destination for Black families. They discuss how it has become a hub for conferences, workshops, and networking opportunities that foster community and education.  The co-hosts also celebrate two significant milestones: the 15th anniversary of RIISE (Resources In Independent School Education) and the 5th anniversary of the Articulating podcast.  Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Graduation season is upon us, students--are you ready for life after independent school. Gulp. Life coach Alexa Juanita Jordan joins us to discuss potential challenges that independent school alumni may encounter in adulthood and strategies for overcoming them.   Alexa is a certified life coach and writer. Her new book, THE START OF IT ALL, is now on sale! It's a 20-something's guide to resilience, empowerment, and authenticity at the dawn of adulthood, featuring questions for self reflection paired with anecdotal stories from her 20s.   Alexa has written several full-length and one-act plays and has been published in Smith and Kraus' Best Women's Stage Monologues of 2022, and is also a Premiere Stages Play Festival Semi Finalist.   In addition to writing and coaching, Alexa has also explored careers in marketing, development, arts administration, education, and theater performance.   She also designed Authentic by Alexa, a downloadable guide that Alexa created to make her signature process more accessible. It's full of journal prompts, visualization exercises, and personal anecdotes.  Join Alexa for her free weekly drop-in discussion group, “Authenticity Tuesdays” every Tuesday from 8 - 9:00 PM EST on Zoom. She created this space to chat with people about what authenticity means to them, and how we can cultivate more of it. Check out some of the past prompts here.  Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

While gender inclusivity has made strides in independent schools, transgender students still face challenges in achieving a "normal" school experience. Mimi Shelton joins us to discuss trans belonging.   Mimi Shelton (She/Her) is currently the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Trans (NHBS-Trans2023-24) Project Coordinator at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene where she leads research projects designed to improve the health of the trans community. Mimi has an extensive background in education and community-based advocacy work. In addition to her experience teaching English at Riverdale Country School, Manhattan Country School, the TEAK Fellowship, and the William Penn Charter School. Mimi's experience also includes serving as the Director of Trans Initiatives and Services at Destination Tomorrow, the Bronx LGBT Center.In 2022 Mimi received the Monica Roberts Torch Award for her work as an organizer of the National Trans Visibility March. She has also been a panelist and presenter for the Audre Lorde Project, GLSEN, the National Education Association, the National Council of Teachers of English, the Ethical Culture Fieldston School, and the Osborne Association. In 2020, Mimi was a featured talent in the Dove Pride 2020 Campaign, “Nothing More Beautiful,” directed by Tourmaline. She also serves on the board of directors for the New York Transgender Advocacy Group and The Okra Project.  This fall Mimi begins her first year of law school (1L) at City University of New York (CUNY) School of Law. She plans to pursue public interest law, particularly relating to labor justice, civil rights, and trans issues.  When she isn't advocating for collective liberation, Mimi loves to roller skate, watch professional wrestling, and dance. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Does it seem like every parent thinks their child is "gifted"? Well, they might be right! Even if the grades don't show it. Gina went on location and visited the Roeper School, an institution for gifted students in the Detroit area to interview Head of School Christopher Federico.  Christopher comes to Roeper from Toronto, having previously served as Head of Academics and Upper School at Bayview Glen and as Director of Curriculum, Research, and Uni Partnerships at the University of Toronto Schools. Fun fact. Or serious fact. Christopher has been a member of the Canadian Army Reserve since 1991 now serves as the Senior Instructor at the Canadian Army Command and Staff College in Kingston, Ontario. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

In recent years, schools have launched major initiatives and strategic plans around DEI. How do they hold themselves accountable to their commitments? Keeniun Brumskill joins us to discuss equity audits. Keeniun is the Executive Director of Community and Social Impact for the Ethical Culture Fieldston School which has locations in Manhattan and the Bronx. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

When your student graduates, that doesn't mean you have to. Leilani Brown joins to discuss how parents and guardians can become partners. Leilani M. Brown is an advisor to a diverse portfolio of clients including private and independent schools. Her boutique consulting firm has supported strategic plans, cultural audits, and equity-related crises. For over 15 years, Leilani has served as a board member and trustee for various non-profit, education, and art and culture organizations. Leilani is also a published author! Her book From Campus to Career: 25 Tips for Your First Professional Year, is in it's second edition is a widely celebrated guide for interns, new graduates and young professionals. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Dwight Vidale joins to discuss the current state of young men of color in indy schools and his upcoming annual symposium. Register for March 2nd here! Dwight is the Assistant Head of School for Institutional Equity and Belonging for the Collegiate School. Prior to Collegiate, he spent over ten years at Riverdale Country School, facilitating equity programming and teaching middle and upper school English. In 2010, Dwight developed The Young Men of Color Symposium and in 2018, Dwight created Beyond Fear LLC, a consulting firm that collaborates with organizations and institutions to shift equity practices and policies. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Gina and Sam continues its conversation with Dr. Hope Rias and dig deep into what schools and educators can do to reduce faculty of color turnover. Hope Rias, Ph.D. is an anti-racist educator and author who teaches History at Siena College. In 2019, she published, St. Louis School Desegregation: Patterns of Progress and Peril and continues to research this subject today. She holds degrees from Spelman College, Brown University, and Indiana University and is a St. Louis Missouri native. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Today we chat with Dr. Hope Rias, about Black faculty turnover and unpack Claudine Gay's resignation through the lens of indy schools. Hope Rias, Ph.D. is an anti-racist educator and author who teaches History at Siena College. In 2019, she published, St. Louis School Desegregation: Patterns of Progress and Peril and continues to research this subject today. She holds degrees from Spelman College, Brown University, and Indiana University and is a St. Louis Missouri native. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

As we struggle to address America's youth mental health crisis, it's become clear that traditional paths can fall short for students of diverse backgrounds. High schoolers Krish Mulholtra and Aaron Harrison are exploring an alternative route through Identifyou, an organization that promotes mental wellness and connects students through their digital app. Krish and Aaron are high school seniors at the Dwight Englewood School and co-founders of the organization Identifyou. Krish is an active student leader with a passion for community outreach and development, and Aaron serves as Student Body President and a peer mentor. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Is your student exhibiting signs of burnout or worse? Dr. Rashidah Bowen White, shares what families and schools can and should be doing to address this very serious issue. Rashidah Bowen White, Ph.D. is committed to advancing the mental health of BIPOC students and families and supporting independent schools in creating equitable, affirming, learning environments. As a psychologist, educator, and advocate, Dr. Bowen White defended her dissertation at Columbia University centering Black parents and how they racially socialize their children to thrive. Please note: we initially focused on young girls and women in the episode, but decided to zoom out to include all genders so pardon the deviation! Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Mr. Randall Dunn, Head of the Rye County Day School in New York, joins the podcast to discuss his new role, and leadership experiences as a person of color in education. During the span of his 35-year career in education, Mr. Dunn has been a teacher, coach, and senior administrator, and has worked in independent, public, day, and boarding schools. Mr. Dunn is also the recently elected Chair of the Board of Trustees of the National Association of Independent Schools or NAIS. Mr. Dunn attended Milton Academy in Milton, MA under the sponsorship of A Better Chance, then received his Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Brown University and Master of Education in human development and psychology from Harvard University. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating! Episode

In this current age of gentrification, urban change and the displacement of low income communities, what obligation does an independent school have to engage the neighborhood where its housed? Morgan A. Jones joined Avenues New York in 2019 as Director of Community Engagement and partnerships, and in addition to this role, he recently joined the admissions team. Morgan holds an MBA from Cornell University's Johnson Graduate School of Management, a BA in Chinese Language & Culture Studies at Middlebury College, and a graduate certificate from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and Nanjing University. Morgan was born and raised in New York City and also lived in China for six years. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

How often do we discuss representation in the Parents Association? Riverdale's PA president Tiffany Ellis Butts joins Gina and Sam to share various ways BIPOC parents can get involved and share her own leadership experiences. Tiffany Ellis Butts is a Riverdale Country School parent who has held a variety of leadership positions at the NYC institution, but is currently serving as the first Black president of the Parents Association. Tiffany is an arts management consultant, primarily working with various cultural institutions and Broadway productions on outreach efforts to communities of color. Tiffany resides in Harlem with her husband Calvin IV and is the proud mother of their two extraordinary sons, Calvin V and Reed. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

A young woman of color became the first Black American legacy at her independent boarding school. Her experience was not as smooth sailing as one might assume and, thanks to her love of journaling, she documented it all in her debut book. Joining us today to chat is Kendra James, author of Admissions: A Memoir of Surviving Boarding School! Admissions was just named one of the ten best memoirs of 2022 by Vulture. Kendra is a founding editor of Shondaland.com and her writing has been published in Elle, Marie Claire, Women's Health Magazine, Harpers, The Verge, Catapult, and The Toast, among other outlets. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

While most schools across the country are strategizing how best to engage BIPOC alumni, St. Andrew's Episcopal School in Maryland has already partnered with several of its graduates to launch the Black Alumni Collective. Delonte Egwuatu is a cofounder and joins Gina and Sam to chat about HackBAC--a social justice hackathon for youth. When not volunteering, Delonte Egwuatu serves as the Assistant Director of DEI, an Upper School Spanish teacher, and an Admissions Liaison at The Pennington School in nj. Prior to Pennington, he taught in the Lower and Middle School as a Spanish and Humanities teacher at his alma mater, St. Andrew's Episcopal School. Delonte is also a VERY PROUD alum of Morehouse College. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Why does faculty diversity matter? And how can schools attract and retain diverse talent? Curtis March - Director of Upper School for the Birch Wathen Lenox School - joins Gina and Sam to share BWL's efforts and progress. Curtis March, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with an MFA from Sarah Lawrence College, has worked in education for over thirty years. He and his wife, who is also an educator, live in Brooklyn. Their son lives in Colorado. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

The jock, the prepster, the delinquent. Black male students are often regarded by their peers and educators through a unique lens. How can they successfully navigate this social landscape and also be a student and—most importantly—be happy? Naledi Semela—an Antiracist Educator and the Browning School's Director of Equitable Practices and Social Impact—joins us to understand the social elements families should consider when sending their Black boy scholars to independent school. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

How does an Episcopal day school like St. Hilda's and St. Hughes in NYC foster inclusivity for its mixed-faith student population? Headmaster Virginia Connor joins us to discuss the school's current efforts, which includes a strategic plan and new role for family engagement. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

"Grit" and "exceptionalism" are frequently used in education to praise BIPOC students who face adversity, but what does grit actually mean? And is resilience an appropriate measure of competitiveness in school admissions? Testing prep expert Akil Bello joins us for a part two! Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Despite the widespread adoption of test optionality, families continue to spend jaw-dropping sums on test prep to improve their students' chances. But are the tutors, classes, books and software actually worth the investment? Akil Bello—a test prep expert best known for his appearance Netflix's "Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal"—joins us to explore standardized testing's costs, benefits and hidden inequities. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Educator Ruth Jurgensen joined Prep for Prep in July 2020 as CEO--the first person of color in that position. Jurgensen was tasked to reimagine the organization's vision and mission through the lens of equity, wellness, and innovation. Ruth joins Gina and Sam to share insights from the org's recently completed strategic plan, several key initiatives the plan has spawned, and the power of Prep's extensive alumni network. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

For many BIPOC children, attending PWI schools without proper support can be psychologically harmful. Families today are using Greyboy: Finding Blackness in a White World as a reference tool for how to raise their token students. Author Cole Brown joins the pod to share his thoughts on this phenomenon and detail his journey from indy school, to management consultant, to published author. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

If you have a BIPOC indy school family, mainstream admissions resources might not speak directly to your needs. "The Black Families Guide to College Admissions" answers your burning questions about HBCU v. PWI, defining success for your student and beginning to lay the foundation towards generational wealth. Admissions experts Timothy Fields and Shereem Herndon-Brown join the show to discuss this book, which will be released in September 2022. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

André Robert Lee's documentary “Prep School Negro” made waves throughout the independent school circuit a decade ago. Lee joins Gina and Sam to talk about the film's reception, his evolution since its release, and how PSN continues to impact budding filmmakers, authors, and indy school families today. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Today, we have a great guest joining us. Dare we say the best guest ever? Gina Parker Collins is chatting with Sam to dish about her recent appearance on CBSN's “The Trials of Critical Race Theory.” In this special, a dozen parents, students and experts like Gina discuss the facts, figures, and philosophies around this hot button topic. Have you watched it yet? Well spoiler alert, there were a lot of opposing views and we have a lot of thoughts. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Imagine being voiceless and then one day an Instagram account amplifies your story. Then your story and others like you become the catalyst for the biggest DEIB evolution in the history of independent schools. Black at Private School was created to support Black Students, Faculty/Staff members, Parents, and Alumni of Private Schools. Its aim is to make all of our educational institutions equitable and inclusive. While only in operation for a little over a year, the organization has already made a lasting impact in the education space and have no plans of slowing down. Co-founder Aja Moore-Ramos revisits her team's rapid growth over the last year, the partnerships they've formed, and their vision for the future. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Episode Two, Season Two is here! How do schools articulate "Belonging" in their print and digital media? And at what point does featuring underrepresented students become exploitive? In recent years, independent school marketing and communications teams have had to reckon with how their images and language potentially mis-portray the student experience. Jan Abernathy, Chief Communications Officer of the Browning School, chatted with Gina and Sam about her leadership and impact in this space. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

Welcome to season two of Articulating! Do your appearance, actions, and background impact the odds of your child gaining admission? What do you do if you're running late? How should you dress? Sharrie Varroux Renaud of the Avenues: The World School joins Gina and Sam to explore the do's and don'ts of "Admissions Etiquette". Sharrie joined Avenues in 2020 and has been particularly passionate about working on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives on campus. She is originally from New Jersey, where she received a B.A. in political science and anthropology from William Paterson University (NJ) and an M.P.A. in public administration from Rutgers University (NJ). Before joining Avenues in fall 2020, Sharrie worked in advancement at The Spence School and most recently worked on the admissions team at BASIS Independent Manhattan. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

The podcast is super excited to introduce you to some brilliant folx this summer you'll be glad you heard from, like Ellie! Today marks our final episode of the Summer Scholar takeover for @artic.ulating and we couldn't end with a better scholar. Ellie is a recent indy school graduate who's accomplished so much already as a student leader. As she embarks on the next chapter of her academic career, Ellie reflects on the contributions she's made to improve diversity and inclusion for her PWI. Thanks for listening! Gina + Sam

The podcast is super excited to introduce you to some brilliant folx this summer you'll be glad you heard from, like Jada! Starting today they're TAKING OVER @artic.ulating telling their own short-form stories about navigating, negotiating & WINNING!!! Jada is a rising Senior and as a Black girl at a PWI, she is leaning more into her Blackness and the opportunity to learn new perspectives. She's also a Drake fan and a documentary geek and has developed a unique interest in fondness for cows...? Jada shares her experience as a high school intern in the public sector. Thank you for your beautifully bold independent school story, Jada. Gina + Sam

The podcast is super excited to introduce you to some brilliant folx this summer you'll be glad you heard from, like brothers James and John! Starting today they're TAKING OVER @artic.ulating telling their own short-form stories about navigating, negotiating & WINNING!!! 6th grader John, 11, likes all sports especially American football and basketball. He stayed up beyond his bed time to watch both NBA/NFL drafts. His favorite cereal - when he is allowed to have a treat - is “Frosted Flakes”. 8th grader, James, 13, likes gaming and BMX park riding. His favorite color is “Anything Black” and favorite cereal is “Raisin Bran Crunch”. Thank you for joining us James and John. Good luck this fall! Gina + Sam

The podcast is super excited to introduce you to some brilliant folx this summer you'll be glad you heard from, like the one and only rising senior, Dariana! Starting today they're TAKING OVER @artic.ulating telling their own short-form stories about navigating, negotiating & WINNING!!! Get ready to hear from rising indy school senior, D.A.R.I.A.N.A, as she Takes Over and ARTICULATES her bold story, in beautiful short-form. The podcast is super excited to introduce you to some brilliant folx this summer you'll be glad you heard from, like the one and only rising senior, Dariana Almonte! Dariana Almonte is a rising senior at the Riverdale Country School. When she's not dancing or reading a book, she's exploring her interests in both computer science and criminal justice reform. She's excited and ready to take on her last year of high school! Thank you for your beautifully bold independent school story, Dariana. Gina + Sam

We did it! Join Gina & Sam for a recap of the last six months. We could not have had the same impact without our wonderful guests, and you the listeners! Thank you for being on the independent school journey articulating the joy, challenges, outcomes, and wins as Black & Brown stakeholders! We're excited about the Summer Takeover of Articulating with our Black and Brown Scholars! StayTuned!!!

In today's episode, we welcome Avenues School's Global Director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion and parent, Kym Ward Gaffney. Kym joins us to discuss how Avenues' data-driven approach to diversity translates across their multinational campuses. And how a school's becoming and Black & Brown family's belonging requires work. Kym Ward Gaffney has been the Global Head for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Avenues for 1.5 years but a member of the Avenues community as a parent since its inception. Kym has articulated a global framework for a multi-year strategy for DEI and continues to develop specific programming aligned to Avenues' mission. Prior to joining Avenues, KWG served PricewaterhouseCoopers in consulting and executive coaching capacities for 21 years. Kym earned her BS from Howard University and MBA from NYU Stern School of Business in Marketing and International Business. Follow us at @artic.ulating on IG for more of Articulating!

In today's episode of Articulating, we are thrilled to welcome our first head of school, Dr. Tom Kelly, from Horace Mann in the Boogie Down Bronx! Listen in as Tom ardently articulates his perspective and leadership style prioritizing the relevance of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at a time when there is intense pushback to the evolution of long-overdue racial reckoning and progress in our independent schools. Personally, this is exactly what I needed to hear from leadership! Courageous leadership is what we need right now. As a parent advocate and founder of RIISE, I am heartened by Dr. Kelly's willingness to lean into what his students need to transform the world in good and just ways, even if it means rescinding offers of recognition or losing donations. Thanks for your time and energy, Dr. Kelly! Horace Mann is a Nursery-grade 12 co-ed independent day school located in the Bronx, NY. The resource referenced by Dr. Kelly: Hollaback - Bystander Intervention Training - www.ihollaback.org/bystander-resources/

Independent schools can open up a world of opportunity and careers for students of color-but what about creative careers? On today's episode, we chat with designer and indy school alum Mapate Diop about his path from attending Riverdale Country School to launching the streetwear brand DIOP. Mapate Diop is a Detroit-based fashion designer who has raised more than $100,000 for social-justice causes and COVID-19 relief efforts through the sale of his company's batik-printed masks. He articulated with us about his independent school experience, West African-inspired clothing line, and the importance of community. For all things DIOP, go to www.wearDIOP.com to see Diop and other interesting people who stand for something and love the brand. Plus check out the new merch! We're thrilled to share that Articulating is officially on iTunes and Spotify! Simply search “articulating an independent school podcast”, hit subscribe, and enjoy. Thanks for listening! And, don't forget to engage with us @artic.ulating on Instagram!

On today's episode, we chat with Dr. Cristina Melendez, the Parent Whisperer, about how hard-working parents can practice self-care and empower their children to self-advocate in the classroom. Dr. Cristina interrupts a parents' need to raise their kids how society wants and teaches them to raise their kids how they choose to so they can succeed in school & life. In short, she helps families raise confident, academically successful, happy children. It's about creating safe spaces for children to be free to be themselves. Dr. Cristina is an independent school parent and bilingual educational leader who delivers innovative transformational solutions for families. You can find her and a ton of resources on Instagram at @beyondlimits_family and at www.beyondlimits.family/

In this episode, we had the awesome privilege of articulating with Dr. Eddie Moore Jr. We really needed his voice in response to the recent backlash to the anti-racist curriculum many of our independent schools are instituting in alignment with their mission statements and DEIB commitments. What we value about Dr. Moore's voice is that he gives the facts straight and no chaser. However, his passion for Black students and their excellence is palpable. You will hear us discuss curriculum, teaching, and our student's wellbeing through an anti-racist lens. We also discuss what anti-racism is and is not. We tried to keep in under 45 minutes, ya'll, but we needed the next ten or so minutes to find joy! This episode was recorded before the mass shooting in Los Angeles. We dedicate this episode and stand in solidarity with our AAPI brothers and sisters too! Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr. has pursued and achieved success in academia, business, diversity, leadership, and community service. In 1996, he started America & MOORE, LLC to provide comprehensive diversity, privilege, and leadership training/workshops. Dr. Moore is recognized as one of the nation's top speakers and educators. His interview with Wisconsin Public Radio won the 2015 Wisconsin Broadcasters Association's Best Interview in Medium Market Radio, 1st Place, and he is featured in the film “I'm not Racist….Am I?” Dr. Moore is the Founder/Program Director for the White Privilege Conference (WPC). In 2014 Dr. Moore founded The Privilege Institute (TPI) which engages people in research, education, action and leadership through workshops, conferences, publications and strategic partnerships and relationships. He is co-founder of the on-line journal Understanding and Dismantling Privilege, co-editor of Everyday White People Confront Racial and Social Injustice: 15 Stories, The Guide for White Women who Teach Black Boys,The Diversity Consultant Cookbook: Preparing for the Challenge (2019), Teaching Beautiful Brilliant Black Girls (forthcoming, 2021) and Lil' e - The Big Misunderstanding (2020). For 10-years, he served as Dir of Diversity at Brooklyn Friends School (Brooklyn, NY) and The Bush School (Seattle, WA). Dr. Moore received his Ph.D. from the University of Iowa in Education Leadership. His Ph.D. research is on Black Football Players at Division III Schools in the Midwest. Twitter: @eddieknowsmoore | Instagram: @eddiemoorejr | In: www.linkedin.com/in/eddiemoorejr *IDI Qualified Administrator idiinventory.com/ Black Families, Brown Families, Black Students, Brown Students, Black Educators, Brown Educators, Independent Schools, Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, Belonging, Cultural Capital, Anti-Racist Education, Recruitment, Enrollment, Experiences

As promised, here's the second half of ep. 5 and equally as good! Thank you, Marta! In part one we discussed educator accountability. This hits home with parents having agency in supporting culturally responsive and anti-racist curriculum for our young scholars, and their peers. Highlights *what wakes Marta up, *choosing indy school education, *the personal power narratives as armor, *LITTLE SALLIE WALKER, and, *[4.10 RIISE workshop] Cause No Harm: Curricular Concerns & How to Cure Them - A Parent & Educator Independent School Workshop Register on 4RIISE.org! Thank you for following us on IG @artic.ulating Dr. Marta Effinger Crichlow is an interdisciplinary artist and educator whose projects in the mediums of theater, film, and literature highlight her mission to fuse social issues, culture, and history. She is the descendant of Black southern migrants who continue to inform her sensibilities and her path. Marta is a past recipient of a National Endowment for the Humanities grant. She also received a Pittsburgh Multicultural Arts Initiative grant for her multi-media collage “The Kitchen is Closed Startin' Sunday”. For her produced play “Whispers Want to Holler,” Marta collaborated with noted jazz saxophonist Billy Harper. She has also worked as a freelance dramaturg for theater productions in New York City, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Memphis, and Louisville. She is the author of Staging Migrations toward an American West: From Ida B. Wells to Rhodessa Jones published by University Press of Colorado. She appeared on TEDx at the Tribeca Performing Arts Center in 2015 and has lectured in Xiamen University in China, the National Parks Services African Burial Ground in NY and at the Rosie the Riveter Museum in Richmond, CA. In 2014, The Network Journal, which recognizes "Black women leaders and influencers in every field," selected Marta as one of their "25 Influential Black Women in Business." This storyteller and Washington, DC native, is a graduate of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts (DESA), where she studied Literary & Media Arts. DESA changed her life. She studied African American Studies at the University of Pittsburgh (BA) and Yale University (MA). Marta received her PhD from Northwestern University and is a full professor in African American Studies at New York City College of Technology-CUNY. She helped curate 400 Years of Inequality: Contributions from the Diaspora at Carnegie Hall's Weill Music Institute. Her feature length documentary film LITTLE SALLIE WALKER, about Black women and girls, is currently in post-production and has received recognition from Women Make Movies, NY State Council on the Arts, Working Films Impact Kickstart. She is a member of Brown Girls Doc Mafia and the Black Theatre Network. Marta is the mother of a daughter (at an independent school).

The bottom line is, August Wilson's Fences and other literary or interdisciplinary works where race is central, or undeniable, requires utmost care, respect, historical context, responsive research, and educators humble enough to dig deep and tell the full truth -before it is taught in our classrooms. This episode is so good it has to be a two-parter! Our guest is the phenomenal Dr. Marta Effinger Crichlow - interdisciplinary artist, educator, and indy school mom! In part one we focus on the institution and educator accountability, Fences in the classroom, the N word, the value of personal and untold stories in shaping critical thinkers, and a passion for learning.

Come on in for some indy school joy, transparency, power, and sage advice for the newly admitted enrolled, and those families of color thinking independent schools.