"Literacy is everything."

Dr. Duane Davis

Literacy Advocate and Public School Advocate

https://www.instagram.com/literacyloungepod/

https://bsky.app/profile/literacyloungepod.bsky.social

Email us at morelifemorestories@gmail.com

"We need to see models and examples of people that look like us."

Hello, Season 3! We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Duane Davis back to the Black Educators Matter podcast for a special episode that introduces our new collaborative initiative, the Literacy Lounge. Dr. Davis, a passionate literacy advocate, emphasizes the critical role that Black educators play in shaping the future of students, especially as a model for those who may not have seen educators who look like them.

"Literacy is a movement."

Dr. Davis discusses the origin of the Literacy Lounge, a companion podcast aimed at uplifting the voices of authors, storytellers, and creatives in the education space. He reflects on the importance of literacy as a foundational element of education and its expansive role in various aspects of life, including STEM, art, and health. Dr. Davis shares his call to action for Black educators and creators, encouraging them to continue their vital work and support one another. He highlights the significance of community and representation in education, reminding us that every effort counts in the ongoing fight for equity and access.

Special thanks to Dr. Davis's family and the mentors who have influenced his journey. Join us as we celebrate the launch of the Literacy Lounge and the impactful stories that will emerge from this new platform.

"We are the backbones, we are the nurturers, we are the lovers, we are the teachers."

Ayanna Scott Jenkins

Middle School Instructional Coach

ayanna.s.jenkins@gmail.com

http://www.primerica.com/a_jenkins

"Without us, the world would be something different."

This week, we welcome Ayanna Scott Jenkins, a dedicated middle school instructional coach, to Black Educators Matter. Born and raised in Aurora, Illinois, Ayanna reflects on her formative years in predominantly white educational settings, where, despite never having a Black teacher, she was deeply influenced by a strong community of Black mentors, including her parents and godparents. Her journey led her to pursue education at Clark Atlanta University and later at the University of Illinois, Chicago, majoring in secondary education. Ayanna shares her experiences of moving through different educational landscapes, from Illinois to Ohio, and the profound impact of building genuine connections with her students.

"I wanted to be the teacher that I did not have."

Ayanna discusses the challenges and triumphs of her 24-year career in education, emphasizing the importance of leading with love and the critical role of mentorship. Her reflections touch on the systemic issues within Black education, including the effects of integration and the need for communal support and representation in schools. Ayanna also shares her passion for financial literacy, aiming to empower educators to secure their futures beyond retirement.

Special thanks to Dr. Briggs, Dr. Stephanie Powell, Dr. Darrell Sanders, and Dr. Kimberly Hinton, whose mentorship and guidance have significantly shaped Ayanna's career and personal growth.

"You are capable and it is possible."

Darius Stanley

Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership, Author

To order his book: https://hep.gse.harvard.edu/9781682538869/blackeducatorsmatter/

"I realized that I don't think they hired me to teach."

This week, we are joined by Dr. Darius Stanley, an assistant professor of educational leadership at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Hailing from Tallahassee, Florida, Dr. Stanley shares his journey from being one of the few Black students in his K-12 classes to attending Florida A&M University, an HBCU that felt like home. His experiences in predominantly white schools and later at an all-Black high school shaped his understanding of the importance of representation and community in education.

"Black educators are the shepherds of maintaining the wholeness of Black students."

Dr. Stanley reflects on his career, from teaching social studies in Orlando to pursuing a PhD to enact systemic change. He discusses the challenges Black educators face, such as being seen as disciplinarians rather than teachers, and the critical role they play in creating spaces where Black students can see their potential. His book, "Black Educators Matter: The Experiences of Black Teachers in an Anti-Black World," explores these themes and emphasizes the importance of addressing anti-Blackness in educational systems to truly support Black educators and students.

Special thanks to Mr. Burgess, Dr. David Jackson, and all the Black educators who have influenced Dr. Stanley's journey and continue to inspire others.