Our Classroom

In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto and Lorena Germán explore the pressing issues of conformity and resistance in education. They shared powerful insights on how discriminatory policies in schools, particularly around hair and appearance, reflect deeper systemic racism. With personal anecdotes and fiery passion, they advocate for inclusive policy-making, transparency, and collective action t...

In today’s episode, we dive deep into Jasminne Mendez 's celebrated novel " Aniana Del Mar Jumps In , " which has received the prestigious 2024 Pura Belpre Honor Award. Together, we'll navigate the powerful currents of her narrative, where poetry meets prose to explore the pressing themes of chronic illness, cultural identity, and the transformative symbolism of water. Jasminne, with her personal...

In this episode, we tackle the essentials of in-kind donations for schools, the pivotal role of organized parent groups, and the innovative strategies needed to uplift Title 1 schools and their parent-teacher organizations.     We'll explore the pressures that small nonprofits, especially those led by people of color, endure in securing funding and the quest for equity in nonprofit fundi...

In this episode, Anna J. Small Roseboro shares her fascinating work, " Experience, Poems and Pictures: Poetry that Paints, Pictures that Speak ," that has captured international acclaim for its innovative blend of poetry, artwork, and insightful prompts. This book is not just a collection; it's a powerful tool for classroom engagement, inviting students to explore, reflect, and create. We'll uncov...

In today's episode, host Roberto Germán sits down with guest Robert Liu-Trujillo , author and illustrator of the captivating picture book " Fresh Juice ." They delve into the inspiration behind the book, the importance of diversity in children's literature, and the significance of familial relationships. The conversation also touches on the representation of fathers of color in children's books an...

In this episode of Our Classroom, we have the privilege of welcoming the award-winning author Natalia Sylvester , whose poignant novel "Breathe and Count Back from Ten" gives voice to Veronica, a young girl with hip dysplasia whose dream is to swim freely as a mermaid in Mermaid Cove. In an episode we’ve aptly titled “Navigating Disability and Dreams,” we'll explore the powerful themes of independ...

In this episode, our host Roberto is joined by David Spellmon Jr. , a behavior specialist who is making an impact in Charlotte, North Carolina by incorporating Hip Hop Pedagogy to promote social and emotional learning. David is the author of " Just Like Music: Social Emotional Learning Inspired by Hip Hop ," and in this conversation, he shares the importance of affirmations, the integration of Hip...

In this episode of Our Classroom, host Roberto Germán engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Patriann Smith , an esteemed scholar and educator specializing in language, literacy, and exceptional education. The focus of their discussion is Dr. Smith's groundbreaking book, " Black Immigrant Literacies: Intersections of Race, Language, and Culture in the Classroom ." Throughout the epis...

In this episode, titled "Conquering Test Anxiety," we have two extraordinary guests joining us. First up is Dr. Wallace Panlilio II , an educational psychologist, headmaster of 14 years, and chief mentor officer who has witnessed firsthand the benefits of moving away from traditional testing methods in favor of project-based assessments. Alongside him is cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Artyom Zinchen...

In this episode titled " Nourishing Caregiver Collaborations ", we tackle the discomfort that might arise when engaging with people of different languages, and Nawal emphasizes the critical need to dispel biases that might hinder the open channels of communication between families and educators. Together, we'll explore strategies to bridge the divisive gap between a child's home and the classroom...

In this thought-provoking conversation, we are joined by the remarkable Shawna Coppola , the author of " Literacy for All: A Framework for Anti-Oppressive Teaching ". Shawna is a seasoned expert in the field of child and adolescent literacy, ready to challenge our conventional understanding of literacy practices. Shawna will take us on a journey beyond the confining norms of the current literacy d...

In this enlightening episode titled "Teaching Black History in K-3," we're joined by the inspiring Dawnavyn James , an educator who brings Black history to the youngest of learners through song, storytelling, and critical thinking. Dawnavyn is not just a teacher; she's an innovator in the realm of education, admired for her holistic approach and her belief in the transformative power of knowledge....

In today's show, we're diving deep into a painful piece of California history and the remarkable story of triumph that's emerged a century later. Our special guest is none other than George   C. Fatheree III , a Harvard-educated attorney, Fintech Founder, and social impact entrepreneur who played a crucial role in correcting an age-old wrong against the Bruce family of Manhattan Beach. In the...

In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto is joined by Tiffany Rose , the author of the powerful book ‘ Pack Light .’ This episode journeys through Tiffany's biracial experiences, her battles with marginalization and identity, and the resilience she's found through storytelling. Tiffany's literary work is a raw and authentic exploration of heavy topics that are masterfully unpacked, allowing us, t...

In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto is joined by distinguished guest Tricia Ebarvia . An experienced high school English teacher, Tricia is also the co-founder of #DisruptTexts and author of the masterpiece, " Get Free: Anti-Bias Literacy Instruction for Stronger Readers, Writers, and Thinkers ." The interview explores this groundbreaking book that aims to liberate from socialization forms t...

In this week's episode, we are thrilled to have St. Clair Detrick-Jules , award-winning Afro-Caribbean filmmaker and photographer, back with us. Join us as we dive into her impactful book, " My Beautiful Black Hair 101 Natural Hair stories from the Sisterhood. " St. Clair shares the inspiration behind her book, which emerged from her desire to uplift her sister Chloe, who faced bullying due to her...

In this episode of Our Classroom we are joined by St. Clair Detrick-Jules , author of My Hair is Like the Sun . We unpack the inspiration behind the title of the book and how St. Clair's Afro-Caribbean background shaped her perspective on Black hair and its connection to the beauty of nature. We also delve into St. Clair's journey in advocacy work, particularly in immigrant justice and Black liber...

In this episode , w e are honored to have   Martha Bireda, Ph. D ., sharing her experiences of growing up during the Jim Crow era. In this episode, Martha highlights the importance of not seeing oneself as a victim, even in the face of adversity, and explores the complex concept of reparations beyond just financial compensation. She takes us on a journey back to her childhood, where segregati...

In this episode, we'll be joined by esteemed guests, including Dr. William Sandy Darity , a leading expert on wealth inequality, Alejandra Montoya Boyer , the Director of Policy at Prosperity Now, Sergio C. Muñoz , a Mexican banker with a passion for broadcasting, and Abigail Golden VaZquez , a senior fellow at Prosperity Now who has been driving awareness of Latino contributions to the American e...

Supporting college readiness for high school students is essential for their future success. Here are three ways parents can help prepare their children for college: Proactively affirm their greatness Be a partner in the process Step in when necessary Welcome to Our Classroom!

In this episode of Our Classroom,  Jenny Suriel , educator and owner of Amor y Azucar Bakery , drops by to discuss her road to becoming an educator, the inception of her bakery business, and her experiences with restorative justice. Classroom Notes Educational journey Educator by day, baker by night Fear, failure & follow through Welcome to Our Classroom! Follow: IG - @_amoryazucar

In this episode of Our Classroom we continue to reflect on the fascinating developments in Florida that are greatly impacting education. Classroom Notes New development in Florida Resources available to educators Encouragement and things to consider My Classroom  is a community of Multicultural Classroom's people, educators, friends, and followers. Whatever you call yourself... you're welcome...

In this episode of Our Classroom Lorena German joins me to discuss Florida's Black History Curriculum. Classroom Notes Brief explanation of the new standards The so-called benefits of slavery Strategic framing to retell & minimize history Lorena Germán  is a two time nationally awarded Dominican American educator focused on anti racist and anti bias education. She has taught English Langu...

In this episode of Our Classroom Kareem Farah of the Modern Classrooms Project joins me to discuss Emotional Dysregulation. Classroom Notes What is emotional dysregulation? How can we effectively support students that experience emotional dysregulation? How is the Modern Classroom Project different from other blended learning models? Kareem Farah spent his teaching career as a high school math edu...

In this episode of Our Classroom  Kassie Infante and Dr. Marianela Rivera of the HomePlace Collective  join me to discuss Raising Activists. Classroom Notes   Democratic citizen in 21st century USA   How to support positive youth development in their quest for social change   3 action steps to drive social change Dr. Marianela Rivera and Kassie Infante, MEd , co-founders o...