When I took the helm as principal of Nathanael Greene Middle School in April 2023, one in every two students was chronically absent. This school boasted a celebrated history, but at the time, it ranked in the bottom 1% of the state – a one-star school.  It was identified for comprehensive support and school improvement.  […]

In our building, we have a commitment to honoring the experiences of all our students and families. We have students from all over the world with rich and diverse histories and cultures, and we want each and every child and the adults in their lives to feel like they belong. What’s more is that we […]

I grew up in a bilingual program here in Buffalo, New York, and now it’s my privilege to support students and educators in bilingual programs as an instructional coach. Much of my work with educators focuses on dual language instruction and amplifying students’ home language – Spanish, in the case of our community. This year, […]

Here’s a situation your fellow leaders have shared: You’re welcoming new English language learners and immigrant students into your building, and your team has questions about how to support their success.  Longtime ESL educator and district facilitator Valentina Gonzalez knows this challenge well, too. Here’s the No. 1 strategy she recommends to school leaders like […]

As educational leaders, we play a crucial role in shaping the narrative of Black History Month within our schools. While teachers spearhead Black History Month classroom lessons during February, it’s our responsibility to integrate Black history meaningfully into our school-wide vision and foster a commitment to anti-racist education and equity. I’ve been thinking about this […]

Planning for Black History Month? These strategies can help you add a little extra joy to your community celebration. School leaders like you have shared with us the joyful and affirming ways you elevate Black stories and voices in your building – especially in the lead-up to Black History Month. Whether you want to honor […]

When you’re a young Black student, meeting a Black male educator allows you to literally see success personified. It changes your outlook on what’s possible. You see someone who looks like you making a difference, and you can aspire to make a difference, too.

We want new families to feel seen and accepted before their students’ first day

During Hurricane Katrina, I was a new teacher. In 2020, I was a new principal. Here’s how these experiences shaped my approach to equity.

With the humanity of our students at stake, we have to sit with some serious questions.