Getting Unstuck: #168 / 169: How Can You Serve as a Catalyst for Change?
Take one small step to start
Update: We originally aired this interview with Assistant Principal Jamahl Hines last November. His change story starts by him realizing a need – in this case that students of color need to see someone like themselves standing in front of the class – and then by taking action to build a pipeline of future educators of diversity.
A lot has happened since. Kids of color like all students have been buffeted by COVID, but they’ve also witnessed the continued struggle around diversity awareness and respect, and the increased need for programs that champion diversity. So we decided to rerun Jamahl’s story and share his good news in a brief update.
Jamahl’s story continues to inspire us for a couple of reasons. It shows the impact a change catalyst – one person with an idea – can have. And it illustrates how powerful changes can start small and grow from there.
Our first conversation with Jamahl
Periodically on “Getting Unstuck,” we introduce you to individuals who have a unique story to tell – a story in which they have made a radical shift from one way of living or working to another way – a way that creates new possibilities for themselves and others. We call these shifts “transformation stories.”
Today we’re joined by Jamahl Hines who has a powerful transformation story.
Jamahl is the Assistant Principal at Conard High School in West Hartford, Connecticut and the founder of the Future Educators of Diversity, a powerful program that champions equity for students in his district and creates a pipeline for developing teachers of color.
The Future Educators of Diversity pin that students proudly wear at graduation.
How you can use this podcast
How effectively is your district addressing the needs of marginalized groups, including staff representation, opportunities for students to enjoy mentorships, constructing partnership with area universities, and the development of future teachers?
How effective are your recruitment efforts to hire minority administrators and teachers regardless of the make-up of your student body?
Which change agents are leading each of these efforts?