2025 Summit on Educators of Color Breakout Sessions

In predominantly Black and Brown schools where the desire is to hire more white teachers, let’s discuss how privilege disregards what highly qualified Black teachers already know and do. How do we balance the need for diversity with the need for respect and recognition of highly qualified teachers?

Developing, Advocating and Respecting amazing future educators through the lens of a minority student teacher.

Learn strategies to create inclusive, empowering environments for both educators & students. This session will delve into the intersection of joy & justice, emphasizing their roles in creating a holistic & inclusive learning experience. Participants will engage in discussions & activities designed to highlight the importance of infusing joy into the educational process, fostering a positive & empowering atmosphere that propels both students & educators toward success. Join us in revolutionizing education for a more equitable & joyful future.

The goal of this session is to help educators develop strategies for open, culturally responsive communication that fosters understanding in diverse school environments.

“I don’t see color” is often a phrase that is stated but not considered for its harmful implications. Participants will use the NEA Leadership Competencies surrounding Social Emotional Learning to examine why the mindset of “I don’t see color” is damaging to people of color and explore ways to expand their viewpoints for students, staff, and community when considering race.

At VAESP Bill of Rights—A Campaign for rESPect, we will discuss the Virginia ESP Bill of Rights campaign. ESPs deserve to live a life of dignity, and we need your voice in the conversation. We will be holding a listening session to help determine priorities such as a living wage, retirement, employment rights, career advancement, job security, and the right to a union.  Join us and bring your ideas!

This session is designed to help participants build meaningful connections with students and helping them thrive in their educational environments. The session will help participants-1)Build Trust by creating a safe space where students feel heard and valued 2)Build Empowerment Strategies by encouraging students to take ownership of their behavior through reflection and goal-setting 3)Introduce Collaborative Techniques that engage teachers, parents, and support staff in a unified approach to addressing challenges and celebrating success.

This workshop is designed to equip leaders and educators with the tools to stand behind their commitments to fostering culturally affirming environments. Participants will explore essential practices for developing self-awareness and cultural responsiveness, focusing on aligning actions with inclusive values to create lasting, positive impacts. Through reflective exercises, discussion, and practical strategies, attendees will gain insights on how to effectively approach cultural diversity within their teams, building a foundation of trust and respect that nurtures belonging for all.

What are common Muslim myths and perceptions that negatively impact Muslim educators and students? How can we use counter narratives as an antidote to anti-Muslim racism and other forms of racism? Participants will learn an example through understanding how anti-Muslim racism, identifiability, gender stereotypes, and the importance of co-conspirators impact Muslim students and educators. Participants will learn how counternarratives can disrupt anti-Muslim racism in order to explore their identities and write the beginnings of their own counternarratives.

During this session, attendees will get an exclusive preview of two new vital human and civil rights courses. LGBTQIA+ Awareness and Cultural Competence courses are designed to empower K-12 educators and school employees (regardless of position) with the tools they need to foster safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive learning environments. These interactive sessions will engage participants in meaningful discussions, hands-on activities, and collaborative learning. Attendees can take insights from this new, dynamic content to their local affiliates or school districts to schedule professional learning for fellow members or school staff, strengthening collective awareness and advocacy.

This presentation will explore effective strategies for fostering culturally affirming school environments (SMILE Students Matter In the Learning Environment) diversity is embraced, and students from all backgrounds feel valued. Participants gain insights into the importance of cultural competence, equity, and inclusivity in education. The session will cover approaches for integrating cultural relevance into curriculum, classroom practices, and school culture. The goal will empower educators and school leaders where all students thrive academically and socially, promoting a sense of belonging.

This interactive workshop aims to equip educators and staff with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to create brave and inclusive spaces within schools. In such spaces, all students and staff can engage authentically, share their experiences, and participate fully, regardless of their backgrounds, identities, or perspectives. We will explore how to foster an environment that encourages vulnerability, promotes mutual respect, and challenges systemic inequities while ensuring psychological safety.

This interactive workshop explores the nuanced relationship between what we say (intent) and how it is received (impact). It will help educators and school leaders recognize the importance of addressing both the intention behind words and actions and the actual impact they have on students, colleagues, and the school community.

I have personally experienced the feeling of applying with the expectation that I would not receive an opportunity, and the imposter syndrome that comes with receipt! I would like to present my experiences in both applying for and receiving a variety of these opportunities, including the Grosvenor Teaching Fellowship with National Geographic, the Toshiba America Foundation Grant and the NEA Foundation Learning and Leadership Grant. Many of these programs are actively seeking applications from teachers of underrepresented communities.

This workshop is designed to empower educators in self-care and resilience. Learn gentle yoga flows that release tension, followed by mindfulness exercises that enhance focus and presence. You’ll learn breathing techniques to manage stress and cultivate a sense of calm that can be implemented anywhere, even in a busy classroom. By the end, you’ll leave with practical tools to integrate into your daily routine, helping you foster resilience and balance both in and out of the classroom.