EDTalksMN

EDTalks: Transforming Education For A Changing World by EDTalksMN

This EDTalk features Sandy Bolton Barrientos is community coach for the South High School debate team and member of the Minnesota Urban Debate League (MNUDL) community, where they focus on curriculum design. An abolitionist organizer in South Minneapolis, they are a studio trainer for REP MN, where they teach workshops that build networks of community crisis support, and co-founder of Futures Beyond Criminalization, which hosts events on public safety, harm reduction and policing alternatives. Sandy is an alum of Minneapolis Public Schools and a student in the University of Minnesota's DirecTrack to Teaching program with a concentration in second languages and cultures. Sandy believes debate offers a unique space where students can freedom-dream institutions that affirm their livelihoods, visualize a future of joy and liberation for all people, and ultimately begin to formulate imaginative and realistic solutions for the big problems facing their communities. Sandy presents testimonials from current and former students on the impact of debate on their lives and argue strongly for additional resources and support for debate in Minneapolis Public Schools. EDTalks is co-presented by Achieve Twin Cities and Graves Ventures, a project of the Graves Foundation. For more information on EDTalks or to watch EDTalks videos or listen to audio podcasts, visit achievetwincities.org.

This EDTalk features Coach, author and educator Larry McKenzie. Larry is the first coach to win four straight state titles in the 100-year history of Minnesota State Boys Basketball, and the first coach in Minnesota high school basketball history to lead two separate schools to multiple titles. But beyond the trophies and medals, Coach McKenzie has accomplished something even more impressive: coaching and supporting his athletes to increase their academic performance alongside their athletic skills. Using basketball as a tool, he has led his players to 100% high school graduation and a 3.4 team GPA. Coach McKenzie shares stories about his journey at Minneapolis high schools and how he helps his student athletes become champions on the basketball court, in the classroom, in their families and in their communities. EDTalks is co-presented by Achieve Twin Cities and Graves Ventures, a project of the Graves Foundation. For more information on EDTalks or to watch EDTalks videos or listen to audio podcasts, visit achievetwincities.org.

Although Minnesota has started to move the needle on teacher diversity, we still have a very long way to go. Over the past few years, policymakers have created a variety of incentives to increase the numbers of teachers of color in our state—along with some changes to teacher preparation and licensure systems—but too many obstacles remain. This EDTalk features three education professionals who will share insights from people of color who were at one time considering a career in education, but ultimately changed their minds and did not pursue this field. Josh Crosson is Executive Director of EdAllies; Haben Ghebregergish is an educator at the High School for Recording Arts, and Jocelyn McQuirter is a local government engagement manager. This EDTalk was recorded at Icehouse on November 13th, 2023. EDTalks is co-presented by Achieve Twin Cities and Graves Ventures, a project of the Graves Foundation. For more information on EDTalks or to watch EDTalks videos or listen to audio podcasts, visit http://www.achievetwincities.org.

Despite the critical role educators play in shaping our young people, the teaching profession in the U.S. has been losing respect and admiration, with negative messages perpetuating an unflattering and incomplete image of a viable and impactful profession. Increasing teacher diversity is a critical component in the effort to elevate the teaching profession. This EDTalk features Dr. Rose Chu from Elevate Teaching, part of a state-funded teacher recruitment campaign and movement to shift how we view and talk about the teaching profession to include the profound impact teachers have in our society. Dr. Chu is, among other things, professor emerita of Urban Education at Metropolitan State University; former assistant commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education; founder and president of Plum Blossom Strategy LLC, and the visionary and project lead for Elevate Teaching. This EDTalk was recorded at Icehouse on November 13th, 2023. EDTalks is co-presented by Achieve Twin Cities and Graves Ventures, a project of the Graves Foundation. For more information on EDTalks or to watch EDTalks videos or listen to audio podcasts, visit http://www.achievetwincities.org.

As a central player in Minneapolis' vibrant and complex community, Minnneapolis Public Schools serves over 35,000 students each year and requires sufficient resources to create truly welcoming and safe spaces where all young people have the resources and support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom and beyond graduation. Minneapolis Public Schools has balanced its budget for the past three years with the help of nearly $262 million in federal pandemic funds, nonrenewable revenue that is set to expire late next year in 2024. The district's most recent five-year budget projection predicts an "imminent financial crisis" due to declining enrollment and a failure to cut costs. Both strategic budget cuts and investments are critical to ensure student learning. This EDTalk features presentations by Rochelle Cox, MPS Superintendent, and Ibrahima Diop, MPS Senior Officer of Finance and Operations. Following the presentations, there is a panel discussion, including Amira Ali, student at South High School and member of the MPS CityWide Student Leadership Board; Tara FitzGerald, principal at Andersen United Middle School; Teresa Gloppen, Minneapolis Public School teacher on special assignment; Briana Thompson, parent from North Community High Schools; and Elleni Fellows, parent from Lyndale Elementary School This EDTalk was recorded at Icehouse on October 2nd, 2023. EDTalks is co-presented by Achieve Twin Cities and Graves Ventures, a project of the Graves Foundation. For more information on EDTalks or to watch EDTalks videos or listen to audio podcasts, visit achievetwincities.org.

In this EDTalk, Paula Cole discusses opportunities for educators and families to collaborate, advocate and ultimately hold school districts and legislators accountable for the wellbeing and academic success of young people. She argues that we need to change the narrative around parent engagement, particularly for lower-income and BIPOC families, and provide culturally relevant tools for all families to become powerful agents of change for education excellence. Paula Cole was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, a place she left to pursue her dream of a college education in the United States. After six years as an Educators for Excellence (E4E) member and teacher leader, Paula joined the Minnesota chapter as executive director. Prior to this role, she worked as an elementary teacher and academic coach in Minneapolis Public Schools. Paula believes that the voices of educators are rarely sought and often ignored by policymakers, and she loves her work at E4E because it allows her to ensure that teachers' perspectives are included in education policies that directly impact children's education outcomes. This EDTalk was live streamed from Icehouse in Minneapolis on May 8th, 2023. EDTalks is presented by AchieveTwinCities in partnership with Graves Ventures, a project of The Graves Foundation. For more information on EDTalks or to watch EDTalks videos or listen to audio podcasts, visit achievetwincities.org.

In this EDTalk, Rosie Lais and Natty B. Hels share information on new guides Great MN Schools developed to help families better understand what their kids should be learning each year in English language arts and math. They share what they have learned from beta testing with nine community organizations and over 250 Minneapolis families. Families who use the guides are better equipped to be learning advocates for their children and more likely to provide support at home, connect with teachers and seek additional learning opportunities. Rosie Lais is the director of community resources at Great MN Schools, where she blends her strategic and relationship-building skills to ensure that every family has the tools they need to navigate the K-12 system for their children. She began her education career as a Peace Corps volunteer in Panama, where she served as national coordinator for the Leadership Development for Global Education program. An alumna of Minneapolis Public Schools, she earned her master's degree in public administration from Princeton University. Natty B. Hels was born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia. Early in her career she worked as assistant director of an early learning center, where she witnessed the importance and value of high-quality education in supporting the health and well-being of children and youth. After immigrating to the U.S. in 2015, she began working at Centro Tyrone Guzman, where she currently serves as the youth programs director. She is proud to be part of an organization where she can work with her community and follow her passion for supporting children and youth. This EDTalk was live streamed from Icehouse in Minneapolis on May 8th, 2023. EDTalks is presented by AchieveTwinCities in partnership with Graves Ventures, a project of The Graves Foundation. For more information on EDTalks or to watch EDTalks videos or listen to audio podcasts, visit achievetwincities.org.

In education, nonprofit and government spheres there is much discussion today about diversity, equity, and inclusion – but relatively few conversations that address disability or its intersections with race. In her EDTalk, Maren Christenson Hofer identifies how ableist ideas inform our educational systems and discusses the profound impact educational practices and policies have on students with disabilities. She also offers a new vision of education that replaces ableist ideas with models of true inclusion and concrete steps we can take towards realizing that vision. EDTalks is co-presented by Achieve Twin Cities and Graves Ventures, a project of The Graves Foundation. Learn more at www.achievetwincities.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This EDTalk was live streamed from Icehouse in Minneapolis, MN on April 19, 2023. It was emceed by Kyrra Rankine.

As a spoken word artist and educator, Frank Gardner has seen first-hand the power of young people who are harnessing artistic expression as a tool for social change, interpersonal reflection and community building. In his EDTalk he explores how young people are processing the tumultuous years of COVID quarantine and the murder of George Floyd through Spoken Word, poetry, theater, songwriting and activism, such as school walkouts. He shares how he utilizes youth voice and Spoken Word to support young people in tapping into honesty and authenticity and suggests tools for teachers as they navigate our current challenging teaching environment. He argues that young people are already deciding what's next for our world – adults just need to listen! EDTalks is co-presented by Achieve Twin Cities and Graves Ventures, a project of The Graves Foundation. Learn more at www.achievetwincities.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This EDTalk was live streamed from Icehouse in Minneapolis, MN on April 19, 2023. It was emceed by Kyrra Rankine.

In celebration of our 10th anniversary season of EDTalks, Achieve presented this special event where five past EDTalks speakers gathered in conversation around our 2022-23 season theme, “What's Next? Where does education go from here?" Speakers reflected on their past EDTalks topics in light of the present day: What has or has not changed? What are they more or less concerned about? How has the pandemic or other recent events shifted the way(s) they see their topic? What do they think is in store for us? Panelists included Dr. Keith Brooks, Former Student Services Director, Anoka-Hennepin School District; Jason Bucklin, LGTBQ Education Specialist at the Minnesota Dept of Education; Dave Eisenmann, Director of Technology, Minnehaha Academy; Salma Hussein, Principal, Gideon Pond Elementary; and Erin Walsh, Co-Founder, Spark and Stitch Institute. EDTalks is co-presented by Achieve Twin Cities and Graves Ventures, a project of The Graves Foundation, in partnership with The Citizens League. Learn more at www.achievetwincities.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This special EDTalk event was live streamed from Icehouse in Minneapolis on March 8th, 2023.

This EDTalks is titled “Teacher-Powered Schools: Sharing Power with Educators, Students and Families” Our featured speaker is Amy Junge. Amy is the director of Teacher Powered School at Education Evolving, a Minnesota-based nonprofit working to improve public education. Amy supports educator teams across the country through teacher-powered governance, collaborative leadership and autonomous school models. A former California elementary and middle school assistant principal and teacher, she began working with teacher-powered schools in 2009. In her EDTalk, Amy will explore the structures and cultural characteristics of teacher-powered schools, the many benefits of these learning environments for students and communities and the growing movement of 250+ teacher powered schools that are embracing this approach to educating and making change. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on December 5th, 2022.

This EDTalks is titled “Supporting Our Educators in a Post-COVID World” Our featured speaker is Dr. Tim Brown. Dr. Brown is principal at the American Indian Magnet School in Saint Paul. A member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe, Dr. Brown has spent 26 years working in Twin Cities public schools. He has also served on the board of regents for St. Mary's University and taught courses at Augsburg University, Hamline University and Minneapolis College. A father of three, Dr. Brown is a musician and an accomplished visual artist who has always been driven to ask good questions. In his EDTalk, Dr. Brown will share ideas on how to restructure professional development, committee work and student engagement to give teachers more voice and choice, help them feel more greatly valued and go beyond traditional self-care. He argues that if we aren't intentional about meeting the needs of our teachers, we will continue to see large numbers leaving the profession. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on December 5th, 2022.

EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by a generous grant from the Bush Foundation. This EDTalks is titled “Strategies for Rediscovering Our Common Humanity” Our featured speaker is Dr. Jackie Vertigan. In our increasingly polarized cultural and political environment, where it has arguably become much harder to engage in civilized discussion with those we may oppose, Dr. Jackie Vertigan is holding on to optimism. In her EDTalk, she will pull from personal experiences, research, and identifiable public trends to explore the contemporary experience of dissent and negative discourse. She will share her approach for looking beyond the statements, opinions, and personalities of those from whom we differ and, instead, find concrete ways to identify commonalities – at very least, our shared humanity. She will also provide reason for optimism and encourage personal action for spreading that optimism. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on October 27th, 2022.

EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by a generous grant from the Bush Foundation. This EDTalks is titled “Joy as Catalyst: Utilizing Healing Centered Practices for Adaptive Change” Our featured speakers include Faiza Bharmal, Jason Bucklin, Nikkia Hines, Matthew Myrold and Jewell Reichenberger. When considering the question "what's next in education?”, the founders of The Collaborative Affect agree that healing is the central through-line. These past years have been full of traumatic moments, and we cannot expect educators and students to "bounce back" by brushing past this collective pain. We heal in many ways, but the most accessible way is through intentional and radical joy. In their EDTalk, Faiza Bharmal, Jason Bucklin, Nikkia Hines, Matthew Myrold and Jewell Reichenberger will offer an anecdotal exploration of joyful, relationship-centered schools where students, staff, families and community members can see and feel that they belong. This passionate group of educators will help lead the way down the path of learning, vulnerability and healing through radical joy. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on October 27th, 2022.

In 2007, Dr. Jon Peterson began the long and long-awaited journey back to his homeland of Samoa to reconnect with his roots, his homeland, his family and himself. Through this process, he discovered what it means to both love and live leadership, both as an educator and as a human, and developed a theoretical model for Indigenous Leadership that can be applied to work in education and beyond. In his EDTalk, Dr. Peterson will discuss his life's work, “The Alofa Movement” (the Love Movement) and address the critical importance of honoring our ancestry and our roots as educators and leaders in these challenging times.

Presenters: Kyra, Jamya and Octivious, Young Leaders, St. Paul Youth Services' YouthPowerMN Leadership Institute As a young person, if you were handed the mic, what would you say to the adults in your life? In their EDTalks, young leaders Kyra, Jamya and Octivious of the St. Paul Youth Services' YouthPowerMN Leadership Institute will join us to describe their lived experiences with adults in educational institutions and how those experiences have impacted their wellbeing, safety, and ability to achieve their goals as Black youth. They will also address the barriers to youth providing input in designing education systems and offer tools and insights for adults who are committed to including young people in the creation of youth-centric, equitable education. EDTalks is presented by Achieve Twin Cities in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievetwincities.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on April 26, 2022. It was emceed by Amanda Koonjbeharry.

Presenter: Walter Cortina, President and Co-founder, Bridgemakers By the time Bridgemakers co-founder and president Walter Cortina reached the age of 13, he had experienced poverty, trauma, homelessness, the murder of his best friend, and the deportation of both of his parents. In his EDTalks, Walter will draw on his personal and professional experience to speak to how schools, community leaders and policy-makers must engage with the experiences and leadership of young people when reimagining schools and systems, particularly youth who have faced trauma in their young lives. Walter will also discuss the transformative power of developmental, mentoring relationships, and the importance of centering BIPOC young people in these discussions and giving them a head seat at the table. EDTalks is presented by Achieve Twin Cities in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievetwincities.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on April 26, 2022. It was emceed by Amanda Koonjbeharry.

Presenter: Jeannine Erickson, Writer's Room Manager, 826 MSP Jeannine Erickson from the arts education nonprofit 826 MSP discusses the importance of creating anti-racist and anti-oppressionist “third spaces” to support students in the classroom and other settings, such as the organization's Writer's Room at South High School. The creation of “third space” is rooted in abolitionist teaching practices and requires loving accountability, de-stigmatization of mental health, and de-centering of whiteness to truly support youth people in life and education. In her EDTalk, Jeannine shares how third space that is rooted in community-building, Afro-futurist theories and teachings, and decolonizing the lives, minds, and dreamscape of historically marginalized folks, can reshape and provide opportunities for rebirth for all young people, regardless of race or racial identity. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on March 28, 2022. It was emceed by Adia Morris.

Presenter: Hannah Planalp, Program Manager, Foster Advocates People who have experienced foster care face a unique set of education challenges for both K-12 and postsecondary school. Even though only 41% of Minnesota Fosters are able to graduate from high school, over 80% still want to go to college. For Fosters who are moving out of the child welfare system, postsecondary education is especially critical for their transition to adulthood. In this EDTalk, Hannah Planalp from Foster Advocates shares her personal stories of being a Foster and the mentor who supported her journey to college and a full scholarship. She also introduces Minnesota's new Fostering Independence Higher Education Grants Program, which covers the full cost of attendance for Fosters at accredited schools. Throughout her talk, she shares data and insights from Foster leaders that broaden the conversation around foster care and education. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on March 28, 2022. It was emceed by Adia Morris.

Almost every area of the human brain is required to engage in music-making. Student musicians do better in school, have higher attendance, graduation and test rates, and learn key 21st century workplace skills. It's time to stop treating music education as optional and understand its critical importance in every child's development, especially those from historically under-resourced communities. Musician, evaluator and educator Sara Zara Zanussi presents research on how integrating music from the beginning of every child's development can actually rewire neurological pathways, increase student engagement and performance, and help close our education opportunity gaps. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on February 23, 2022. It was emceed by Amanda Koonjbeharry.

Presenter: Laichia Vang, High School Student and Activist, Roseville Area High School Our cultural identity is strongly intertwined with our native language. So what happens when that language gets lost or diminished? High school activist Laichia Vang (she/they) is a native Hmong speaker who experienced the erasure of her native Hmong language while participating in English Language Learners (ELL) classes. In her talk, she explores this common experience that is shared by many students of color and others for whom English is not their first language. They also identify ways that our education systems must support and advocate for multilingual students and families by understanding what is at stake when language is lost. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on February 23, 2022. It was emceed by Amanda Koonjbeharry.

This EDTalks is titled “PSEO As a Bridge from High School to College” Our featured speaker is Maria Wright. Maria is director of dual enrollment at St. Cloud State University. Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) – also known as dual enrollment – provides an affordable way for high school students to experience college and earn college credit by completing courses at eligible postsecondary institutions. PSEO has grown rapidly in Minnesota over the past twenty years, but there are wide gaps in participation between white students and students of color, English language learners and low-income students. A former PSEO participant at South High School, she's passionate about increasing postsecondary education access for students of color, students from lower socioeconomic status and first-generation college students. Maria has also worked as assistant registrar at Troy University in Alabama and in various roles at the University of Minnesota's College in the Schools concurrent enrollment program. She earned her MBA at Augsburg University and is currently completing a doctoral program in higher education at St. Cloud State University. Maria will draw on her experience as a PSEO participant and higher education leader to discuss the great benefits of PSEO and how it can help close education equity gaps by providing a bridge between high school and postsecondary education. As an advocate for young scholars, she argues that we must challenge current paradigms around PSEO, particularly the way it is funded. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on January 20th, 2022. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​.

This EDTalks is titled “How PSEO is a Game-Changer for High School Students” Our featured speakers are Asiya Browne and Zeke Jackson. Asiya Browne is a sophomore at the University of Minnesota, where she's studying sociology of law, criminology and deviance, and Asian and Middle Eastern studies with a focus in Arabic. She serves on the board of People for PSEO, where she works to connect more students to PSEO through outreach and policy work. Zeke Jackson is a junior at the University of Minnesota, majoring in finance and political science. He serves as executive director of People for PSEO, working hard to inform families about PSEO, lower barriers to PSEO enrollment, advocate for strong PSEO policies and build a statewide PSEO community. As high school students, Asiya and Zeke participated in PSEO, taking college classes and earning credit at no cost. Now both are University of Minnesota students and leaders in People for PSEO, a nonprofit that works to increase visibility about the many benefits of PSEO and increase participation, particularly by students of color. Asiya and Zeke believe that PSEO is a powerful tool that can help break cycles of poverty, close education disparity gaps and reduce student debt. They will share their personal experiences of PSEO, how the program helped them find their voice and become more confident advocates, and the importance of lowering barriers to access PSEO and ensure that students succeed while they are in the program. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on January 20th, 2022. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​.

Presenter: Amal Karim, Impact Officer, The Constellation Fund | December 8, 2021 Philanthropy and education is a complicated mix that has a tremendous impact on education equity and access. More than a quarter of charitable giving by wealthy donors goes to education causes, from childhood to postsecondary, and education is very popular among all donors. As a Constellation Fund impact officer, Amal Karim sees first-hand the interesting dynamics between philanthropy and education and the effects on communities. In her talk, she provides a brief overview of philanthropic giving in education and explore current conversations surrounding education funding, race and equity. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This event was emceed by Adia Morris.

Presenter: Sara Spafford Freeman, Consultant, SFF Strategies and community organizer | December 8, 2021 Sara Spafford Freeman is a community organizer, parent and author of "Apartheid in Minneapolis: Racial Disparities in Five Local Systems." Sara has extensively studied PTAs and parent fundraising within Minneapolis Public Schools and argues that current systems perpetuate vast racial disparities. In this talk, she shared insight and data on how antiquated state funding models, school choice and segregation have resulted in stark inequities within districts like MPS, and the myriad ways parent fundraising contributes to widening these gaps. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls in partnership with the Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This event was emceed by Adia Morris.

These four young speakers from the Youth Leadership Initiative (YLI) believe in a youth-centered world where young people are excited to learn, be themselves and transform their communities. They will share how creating a youth-centered space through an equity lens requires three things: first, a shift in framework from youth as recipients of services to youth as partners; second, a dismantling of the hierarchical power structures that exist between youth and those in power; and third, a commitment to constant redefining and improvement. By reimagining the ways that we adults think about and work with youth, we can create more equitable spaces where young people can grow their self-confidence, better understand their peers and the world around them, and feel more empowered to effectively change their communities. EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by a generous grant from the Bush Foundation.

Mikisha Nation carries a deep cultural understanding of the wisdom of youth voice that's influenced both by her personal experience of migrating from Jamaica to the U.S. as well as her role in leading youth development programs for low-income students, BIPOC and Indigenous students, and students from immigrant, multilingual and first-generation backgrounds. Elevating these diverse voices is often not prioritized in American culture: adults make decisions about the lives of young people all the time without their input and with far-reaching implications. Mikisha will explore five essential leadership lessons she's gained from listening to young people and will also discuss how youth can have a powerful impact on adult leadership as they work to change power dynamics in education. She'll draw from her personal experiences as a young immigrant, as a mother of young children who is navigating K-12 and postsecondary education systems, and as a dedicated professional working in the field of youth development for 20+ years. EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by a generous grant from the Bush Foundation.

Presenter: Ini Augustine, Founder, Project Nandi | May 4, 2021. Technology was designed by and for white people to the detriment of BIPOC people and experiences in all areas of life. Ini Augustine will discuss white supremacy in the technology field and how it impacts education, particularly for children of color. She’ll share her lived experiences as a Black woman in hostile educational and workplace environments, and her work as founder of Project Nandi, which is restoring educational access to children of color during the COVID-19 pandemic. She will also map the ways that the digital divide harms children of color by criminalizing them, keeping them in poverty, and excluding them from education – traumas that all carry into adulthood. EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Video editing by Jeff Achen at http://www.callsign51.com​. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This event was emceed by Adia Morris.

Presenter: Chastity Lord, President & CEO, Jeremiah Program | May 4, 2021. Generational poverty is perpetuated by an ecosystem of unjust policies and correlating structures that disproportionately impact communities of color. Chastity Lord will share her insights on the connections between generational poverty and systemic racism, and how communities that experience poverty have far less access to quality education and other basic services. She will also demonstrate how education can disrupt the cycle of generational poverty through a focus on career-track college education, high-quality early childhood education, empowerment and life skills training, and supportive communities. EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN​. This event was emceed by Adia Morris.

Dr. Courtney Bell-Duncan, a passionate educator, education consultant and founder of Courtney S. Bell Consulting LLC, works to co-create educational equity solutions with PreK-12 educational institutions. While serving as a classroom teacher, she witnessed the power of caring relationships and high expectations for children. She later went on to become an educational leader and consultant with the goal of spreading her love of education more broadly. A proud graduate of North High Community High School, Courtney attended the University of Minnesota, where she completed her BA in Sociology, her M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction and Ph.D. In Education Policy and Leadership. In 2018 she was a finalist for the 2018 Minnesota Teacher of the Year Award. In this talk, Courtney will discuss how culturally responsive pedagogy has the power to counter and actively disarm epistemic violence against K-12 schools. She will also lay a foundation for transformational shifts in thinking about culture in schools and the broader society. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on Feb. 8, 2021. EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by a generous grant from the Bush Foundation.

This EDTalks is titled “Let’s Talk About Race in School” Our featured speaker is Derek Francis. Derek Francis is a passionate and experienced school counselor who approaches his work from a proactive and equity-based space.  He currently serves as the manager of counseling services for Minneapolis Public Schools, where he specializes in helping students and staff build trusting cross-cultural relationships. He has presented at conferences throughout the country including the American School Counselors Association, Minnesota School Counselors Association, Texas School Counselors Association and Wisconsin School Counselors Association. He recently led a webinar for over 20,000 U.S. counselors and educators on “Proactive School Counseling After a Major Racial Incident.” Derek’s published work includes contributions to Contemporary Case Studies in School Counseling, a recent blog entitled “This Is Not A Fire Drill – Supporting students after George Floyd” and articles for the American School Counselors Association and American School Board Journal. In this EDTalk, Minneapolis Public Schools counseling services manager Derek Francis will talk about the critical importance of talking about race in our classrooms, and offer some strategies on how to do it right. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on Feb. 8, 2021. EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by a generous grant from the Bush Foundation.

This EDTalks is titled “Developing an Equity Leadership Identity” Our featured speaker is Dr. Lanise Block. Dr. Block is a highly experienced educator who has served as a teacher, program coordinator, content lead for K-12 social studies, technology integration specialist and strategic project administrator. She is currently an adjunct professor at of the University of St. Thomas School of Education, Hamline University’s Center for Excellence in Urban Teaching, Metropolitan State University’s School of Urban Education and Augsburg School of Education. Her research interests include the digital divide, advocacy and inclusion. Dr. Block is also the founder of Sankore Counsulting, which fosters creative leadership in organizations and builds capacity in equity, diversity and innovation from the classroom to the boardroom. She holds a B.A. from Drake University and master’s and doctorate degrees in education from the University of St. Thomas. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on January 14, 2021. EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by generous grants from the Bush Foundation and Comcast.

This EDTalks is titled “Developing an Equity Leadership Identity” Our featured speaker is Dr. Lanise Block. Dr. Block is a highly experienced educator who has served as a teacher, program coordinator, content lead for K-12 social studies, technology integration specialist and strategic project administrator. She is currently an adjunct professor at of the University of St. Thomas School of Education, Hamline University’s Center for Excellence in Urban Teaching, Metropolitan State University’s School of Urban Education and Augsburg School of Education. Her research interests include the digital divide, advocacy and inclusion. Dr. Block is also the founder of Sankore Counsulting, which fosters creative leadership in organizations and builds capacity in equity, diversity and innovation from the classroom to the boardroom. She holds a B.A. from Drake University and master’s and doctorate degrees in education from the University of St. Thomas. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on January 14, 2021. EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by generous grants from the Bush Foundation and Comcast.

This EDTalks is titled “Where is Mental Health in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Work?” Our featured speaker is Jamil Stamschror-Lott. Jamil is a mental health professional who practices psychotherapy with individuals, hosts community healing sessions, and works with businesses to incorporate mental health, diversity and inclusion through a therapeutic lens. Jamil and his wife Sara co-founded Creative Kuponya, an organization that focuses on out-of-the-box, community-based and creative methodologies to bring about healing for individuals, communities and businesses.  Jamil also teaches diversity and equity courses in Augsburg University’s graduate social work program. He has been named a Mentor of the Year by New Lens Urban Mentoring, and received Marquette University’s Young Alumni of the Year award in 2014. He holds a B.A. in sociology from Marquette University and a master’s degree in clinical social work from Augsburg University. This virtual EDTalk was live streamed online on January 14, 2021. EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by generous grants from the Bush Foundation and Comcast.

EDTalks: From "Adequate" to "Quality" by EDTalksMN

There’s a clear connection between academic failure, delinquency and crime. Students who aren’t proficient in reading by fourth grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school. And students who drop out of high school are over three times more likely to be arrested in their lifetime. When 85% of children in our juvenile court system are not literate, this is a clarion call to action. Dr. Artika Tyner will share strategies to promote literacy and end the school to prison pipeline, and provide details on her new book and community outreach program, Leaders are Readers, which promotes literacy, raises cultural awareness and fosters leadership development. You’ll come away feeling a greater sense of urgency to make change and gain new tools to make a difference in your community. Presenter: Dr. Artika R. Tyner is a passionate educator, author and advocate for justice. A professor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, she is founding director of the school’s Center on Race, Leadership and Social Justice, where she trains students to serve as social engineers and create new inroads to justice and freedom. Artika also provides leadership development coaching and resources for young people and adults, organizes policy campaigns, fosters restorative justice practices, develops social entrepreneurship initiatives, and promotes asset-based community development. The founder of Planting People Growing Justice, she has been featured in a variety of media outlets and has received over two dozen awards for her leadership and service from the American Bar Association and several other organizations. This EDTalk was livestreamed on October 5, 2020. EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation and Comcast. Audio production by www.callsign51.com. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN.

Too often our education systems work to “fix” black male students rather than recognizing the systemic racism inherent in these systems and the tremendous harm they inflict on students. The Minneapolis Public Schools Office of Black Student Achievement (OBSA, formerly Office of Black Male Student Achievement) was created in 2014 to address our city’s wide racial disparities in education and provide targeted support for black students. Director Michael Walker will explore common misperceptions of black males, how these beliefs shape education practices, and how OBSA engages students, families, teachers and community members to provide support, build confidence and change outcomes for these young people. Presenter: Michael Walker is a highly experienced leader in youth development and assisting black youth to achieve success. As the inaugural director for the Office for Black Male Student Achievement (now the Office for Black Student Achievement), he works to expand support and change outcomes for black students in Minneapolis Public Schools. Michael is former assistant principal and dean of students at Roosevelt High School, has served as a Career & College Center coordinator for AchieveMpls, and directed the Black Achievers program at the YMCA of Minneapolis and Greater St. Paul, where he managed programs focusing on social, academic, athletic and employment skills for youth. A graduate of Minneapolis Public Schools, he holds a master’s degree in counseling from the University of Wisconsin River Falls. This EDTalk was livestreamed on October 5, 2020. EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation and Comcast. Audio production by www.callsign51.com. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN.

Author Junauda Petrus-Nasah shares her journey of researching queerness within Black American and Black Caribbean culture for her young adult novel, The Stars and The Blackness Between Them, which is about queer young Black love across the diaspora, mass incarceration, astrology, ancestral magic, Whitney Houston and trusting your sacredness despite oppression and heartbreak. Junauda’s work is inspired by the absence of examples of herself within popular text as a young person and how that has played out in both her life and her work. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on March 2, 2020. EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation and Comcast. Audio production by https://www.soundspowerful.com. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN.

Youth who identify as girls face broad challenges such as sexual harassment, barriers to academic success and unique health disparities, compounded by the intersections of race, sexual orientation, ability, and socioeconomic class. Data shows there is a tremendous need for programming and policies that focus solely on the needs of girls and young women to compensate for the gender stereotypes present in our communities and the gender inequities built into our systems, including the education system. Girls Inc. is a national expert in girls-only and pro-girls programming and inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. In this EDTalk, Louise and Sophie, two youth leaders at Girls Inc. at YWCA Minneapolis, and Elena, Girls Inc. after-school coordinator, talk about what we can all learn about the impacts of gender-specific programming, as well as ways to create pro-girl environments in gendered and co-ed spaces. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on March 2, 2020. EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation and Comcast. Audio production by https://www.soundspowerful.com. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN.

This EDTalk is titled “How Debaters Will Save Democracy and Change the World.” Participation in academic debate improves student test scores, grades and graduation rates – and also fosters critical skills that strengthen civic action and agency. In this EDTalk, Amy Cram Helwich explores how academic debate - historically dominated by white, male and wealthy individuals - has now expanded to a much wider range of participants and can help strengthen critical thinking, listening, empathy, problem-solving and advocacy skills. Amy also describes how students from the Minnesota Urban Debate League's Spanish, East African and Financial Literacy debate teams utilize debate skills to create change in their communities. EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation and Comcast. Videography by Jeff Achen. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN.

This EDTalk is titled “Igniting Civic Engagement Through Service- Learning.” An informed citizenry is the foundation of a democratic society. Through service-learning experiences, students become informed citizens by researching community needs, identifying projects, connecting with experts on sustainable strategies and applying their academic skills to real-world needs. Service-learning answers the question, "Why do I need to know this?" with students as the drivers of exploration and action. In this EDTalk, Amy Meuers introduces this powerful teaching and learning approach that not only meets the academic, social and emotional needs of students but also addresses the needs of our communities and the world. Amy is chief executive officer of the National Youth Leadership Council, an international nonprofit committed to ensuring that all young people become civically informed and engaged global citizens. An ardent advocate for youth voice, Amy is a social entrepreneur with over 16 years of experience in service-learning, youth development and education. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on February 24, 2020. EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League, with generous support from the Bush Foundation and Comcast. Videography by Jeff Achen. Learn more at www.achievempls.org/edtalks or follow us on Twitter at #EDTalksMN.

This EDTalk is titled “How to Raise Tech-Healthy Kids.” Tablets, smartphones, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube and more... technology is a central part of young people’s lives today. Keeping up can be challenging, but a positive and well-informed approach can have a big impact on a child’s future and in creating new habits that lead to digitally healthy individuals. In this EDTalk, Dave Eisenmann will teach simple tips to help both kids and adults balance the use of technology in our lives. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on January 13, 2020. EDTalks is supported by generous grants from the Bush Foundation and Comcast.

This EDTalk is titled “It’s complicated: Students, Social Media and Mental Health.” Students spend an average of 53 hours each week on social media and other technology – more than any other activity but sleeping. While many assume technology is inherently bad for student mental health, evidence suggests that it can either boost or undermine what young people need to thrive. As more and more schoolwork goes online, both the opportunities and challenges are magnified, and parents and educators need to learn how to respond. In this EDTalk, Erin Walsh will describe the key ingredients for digital wellness and share strategies to help students thrive in a world of screens. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on January, 13, 2020. EDTalks is supported by generous grants from the Bush Foundation and Comcast.

Artistic expression can be a powerful catalyst for social change and a source of personal power for young people and their families. Since 2008, Washburn Blackbox Theatre has provided a safe space for students from a wide range of backgrounds to make visible the all-too-often invisible voices and stories of urban youth. Student actors engage in a rigorous and unique training program to create, perform and tour original theater that helps break down social barriers and build bridges among themselves and their communities. In this EDTalk, students will speak their truths about public education and how creating original theater can make change both in and out of the classroom. Presenters: Crystal Spring, Washburn High School Theatre Teacher Washburn High School Blackbox Theatre students EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizen's League. Thanks to Bush Foundation and Comcast for their generous financial support.

Student voice is an essential element for school health, vitality and success. The Voices Framework project team interviews students about key issues such as diversity, race, safety and school culture, and creates videos reflecting these voices and stories. The videos are then presented to school leaders, followed by facilitated conversations that unpack adult narratives and guide participants in examining their pedagogy, beliefs and practices. The Voices Framework is designed to help school leaders get to know their students in a new and authentic way and ensure that they feel valued and respected, which bolsters achievement. Staff from Brooklyn Center Community Schools will share how this process can unlock new ways to improve student achievement and strengthen school culture. Presenters: Josh Fraser, Principal at Brooklyn Center Middle and High School STEAM Ambar Hanson, Community Relationship Officer for the Mortenson Family Foundation Expanding Opportunities for Children and Families program area EDTalks is co-sponsored by AchieveMpls and The Citizen's League. Thanks to Bush Foundation and Comcast for their generous financial support.

Salma Hussein, M.S.W., L.I.S.W., is a school social worker at South High School who works with students and families from a wide variety of countries. Drawing on her own experiences as an immigrant and her work with her students and their families, she will share how creating strong home-school partnerships, celebrating diversity and building authentic relationships is absolutely vital for student success. The Power of Strong Relationships for Student Success by Salma Hussein was part of the May 2019 #EDTalksMN event on Immigrant Voices. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on May 6, 2019, by Jeff Achen (https://www.callsign51.com/). EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls and the Citizens League in partnership with Indigo Education and Pollen. Thanks to our generous sponsors, the Bush Foundation and the Verne C. Johnson Family Foundation. Learn more about EDTalks at https://www.achievempls.org/edtalks.

Tea Rozman Clark is co-founder and executive director of Green Card Voices, a nonprofit that utilizes storytelling to share personal narratives of immigrant youth and adults to foster tolerance and establish better understanding between immigrant and non-immigrant communities. Born in Yugoslavia, Tea has interviewed more than 400 immigrants from over 120 countries and is editor of the organization’s six volumes of compelling stories. She will share the power of Green Card Voices storytelling for both the teller and the audience, as well as stories of Minneapolis students from the organization’s collection. Storytelling as a Tool to Empower and Build Empathy by Tea Rozman Clark was part of the May 2019 #EDTalksMN event on Immigrant Voices. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on May 6, 2019, by Jeff Achen (https://www.callsign51.com/). EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls and the Citizens League in partnership with Indigo Education and Pollen. Thanks to our generous sponsors, the Bush Foundation and the Verne C. Johnson Family Foundation. Learn more about EDTalks at https://www.achievempls.org/edtalks.

This EDTalks focuses on “Creating Gender Inclusive Schools” Our featured speaker is Jason Bucklin. Jason is the LGBTQA+ Program Coordinator for Minneapolis Public Schools and has served the district’s students, families and staff for seven years. With over 15 years of experience in LGBTQA+ youth advocacy, Jason has overseen the development and implementation of gender inclusive polices both at MPS and across Minnesota. Outside of his work in education, Jason is a photographer supporting queer-identified performers in the Twin Cities. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on March 11, 2019. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League in partnership with Indego Education and Pollen. EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by generous grants from the Bush Foundation and the Verne C. Johnson Family Foundation.

This EDTalks focuses on “Creating Inclusive Classrooms: What Success Looks Like” Our featured speaker is Jennifer Sommerness. Jennifer is the Executive Director of Inclusive Schools at Kids Included Together (KIT) and an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas. A nationally recognized leader in disability inclusion, she brings over 25 years of experience and a deep passion for inclusive education to all she does. Jennifer works closely with families, teachers, administrators and community members to create inclusive schools and communities that support students through innovative, diverse learning strategies. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on March 11, 2019. EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League in partnership with Indego Education and Pollen. EDTalks is a lively series of community conversations about public education and related issues that impact our young people. Each EDTalks features two compelling, short presentations by cutting-edge educators, youth advocates, students, artists or community leaders. EDTalks is supported by generous grants from the Bush Foundation and the Verne C. Johnson Family Foundation.

Hanane Kachman serves as Workforce Development Consultant at Fairview Health Services, where she provides expertise in specialty recruitment, workforce planning, pipeline creation, diversity and inclusion, and building partnership with educators and public officials. Hanane is currently focused on creating career pathway programs that begin in high school and continue through a variety of post-secondary opportunities, including community and four-year college, training programs for working adults, internships and fellowships. Her talk was part of the EDTalk on the role of career and technical education in the 21st century. This EDTalk was recorded in front of a live audience at Icehouse in Minneapolis on Jan. 14, 2019, by Jeff Achen (https://www.callsign51.com/). EDTalks is presented by AchieveMpls and The Citizens League in partnership with Indigo Education and Pollen. Thanks to our generous sponsors, the Bush Foundation and the Verne C. Johnson Family Foundation. Learn more about EDTalks at https://www.achievempls.org/edtalks.