by the Inner Strength Team
In the recent episode of the Conscious Classroom podcast, Amy Edelstein invites listeners to reflect on the history of educational segregation in the United States. Through the insights of Leslie Fenwick’s well researched new book Jim Crow’s Pink Slip, Amy explores the impact of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision on the population of black educators.
This episode takes a reflective approach, guiding listeners through a thoughtful exploration of how historical legislation and informal policies and deep-seated attitudes have shaped the current landscape of public education. Fenwick documents how more than 100,000 black principals and teachers were dismissed or demoted following the desegregation decision, resulting in fewer black teachers and lower expectations for black students. This historical context sets the stage for a conversation about the present-day consequences of these past actions, the dearth of black educators within the public school system and the ramifications that this has on students of color.
Mindfulness and self-reflection are key themes throughout the episode. Listeners practice a “thought bubble ” exercise to identify biases, preconceptions, and emotional reactions around the subject of desegregation and education. By bringing awareness to these internal reactions, Amy promotes a more conscious approach to sourcing solutions around educational disparities.
The episode is a call to action, not only to remember the history of educational segregation but to actively work towards creating more inclusive and equitable learning environments. Edelstein weaves in practical ways Inner Strength is working to support and increase the number of black educators, such as offering training scholarships, paid internships, and partnering with local colleges for interns and co-op student teachers.
In summary, this Conscious Classroom episode serves as a reminder of the long arm of history, and the importance of diversity, equity, and mindfulness in education. By delving into the complex history of desegregation, with kudos and thanks to Fenwick’s research, Edelstein engages in an important conversation for educators, administrators, and policymakers to recognize their own conclusions and beliefs, hold them lightly, and reconsider ways we can practically create a more inclusive and representative educational system that supports all students. This episode is a powerful mix of historical analysis, current research, and forward-thinking strategies that can lead to transformative change in classrooms around the country.
