Reality Check

Jesicka Monroe, Instructional Assistant / Elementary Special Education Teacher “It’s white people who are picking what they want us to learn.” On this week’s episode, Ms. Jesicka Monroe is ringing the bell and hitting us with a reality check. Education is a game, and we are not taught how to play it appropriately. After working as an Instructional Assistant under an inspiring influence, Jesicka accepted her calling to become an authentic leader in the classroom. Since becoming a Special Education Teacher, Ms. Monroe is on a quest to advocate for Black students, empower all parents to be present and informed, and reject revisionist history (hello, Plantation field trips). Tune in as we talk about poverty and racism within the classroom, why it’s important to find your crew, and the “wow” moments that occur on this lifelong quest for knowledge (including learning about Ma’at and the vast influence of Africa).

Om Podcasten

Teachers are Earth's Mightiest Superheroes and their stories can inspire generations. The Black Educators Matter: Project 500 Podcast is on a journey to share the stories of 500 Black educators. Why? Research shows that Black students who have even one Black teacher are more likely to graduate, attend college, and see themselves reflected in positions of leadership. White students also benefit from learning from a diverse teaching force. This podcast is necessary because storytelling is the bridge that connects data to humanity—showing the world why Black educators matter.