Traditional curriculum does not situate Black youth in a positive light and Kaya Henderson is on a quest to do something about it. Kaya is perhaps best known for serving as Chancellor of DC Public Schools from 2010-2016 and as the co-host of “Pod Save the People” podcast. Now, she is the co-founder and CEO of Reconstruction, a technology company delivering a K-12 supplemental curriculum that situates Black people, culture, and contributions in an authentic, identity-affirming way. In episode 44, she connects with Natalie to discuss the misconceptions about culturally-responsive teaching and how removing the barriers of the school system can unlock passion and joy.
Show Notes:
- The need for caucusing in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. (2:30)
- Why Kaya is unapologetically Black. (7:40)
- How the traditional curriculum doesn’t situate Black children in a positive light and how Reconstruction is offering a different perspective. (9:20)
- Playing an inside-outside game to change the school system. (13:10)
- The teaching job is the most resistant to change and people are starting to demand more meaningful and manageable work. (17:20)
- An identity-affirming national Black curriculum. (19:30)
- Misconceptions exist about culturally-responsive teaching in a predominantly white teaching force. (22:55)
- The underrepresented period in American history called “Reconstruction” which is a narrative of Black excellence and the namesake of Kaya’s company. (26:35)
- Being liberated from the school system ignites creativity and curiosity. (31:40)
- Co-creating curriculum with a team of “reconstructors” who are passionate about the mission and experts at creating a culture of belonging. (36:35)
- Reimagining education to be more flexible and indulge the passions of students. (42:25)
- The purpose of education. (45:00)
View full show notes here!
Kaya on Twitter: @HendersonKaya
Email the Podcast: hello@educrushpod.com
Podcast on Twitter: @educrushpod
Natalie on Twitter: @natabasso
Podcast on Instagram: @educrushpod
Podcast Website: www.educrushpod.com
Resources:
https://reconstruction.us/home
