On this episode of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega discuss the importance of equity allies. Representatives from ACSA’s affinity groups including CAAASA, CAAPLE & CALSA talk about the development and goals of the California Administrator Equity Alliance to uplift students.

The Critically Conscious Classroom returns as hosts Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson how the Association of Raza Educators Los Angeles has been supporting students and families in the midst of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in the city.

On episode 11 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Dr. Tracie Noriega & Anthony Robinson discuss the wide-reaching implications of Mahmoud v. Taylor, the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on religious exemptions from certain classroom materials. What does this ruling mean for practices and for student identity?

On episode 10 of the Critically Conscious Classrom, Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega will talk with professors in the field all about ethnic studies. They'll discuss how the subject saved Tracie's life and why it is sometimes considered controversial.

On episode 9 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson sit down with Nicole Anderson, Founder and CEO of Nicole Anderson and Associates Consulting. Together, they’ll explore how educators and changemakers can challenge the status quo and lead with justice, integrity, and inclusion.

Nicole brings decades of experience in equity leadership, training, and systemwide transformation.

"We cannot close the educational gaps we see in our schools if we don’t close the one in our minds first." — Nicole Anderson

On episode 8 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson welcome Dr. Daryl Camp, superintendent of San Lorenzo USD and incoming ACSA board president to the show. They explore what it means to “lead loudly” and model courageous leadership in politically charged times.

On episode 7 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega mark the start of Pride Month with Dr. Julie Vitale, superintendent of Oceanside Unified School District. They'll discuss Julie's experience leading a school district as an openly gay superintendent and how educators can support the LGBTQ+ community.

On episode 6 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, we're joined by our very own Dr. Edgar Zazueta, ACSA's executive director. Hosts Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega discuss how ACSA is supporting DEI educators, advocating for inclusive policies and standing firm in our commitment to every student’s right to thrive.

What does it mean to write a love letter to educators in a time when public education is under fire? In episode 5 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson explore what love looks like as an act of resistance, affirmation and deep care in the face of socio-political tension. Our guests will reflect on the concept of “battle recognizance” and how to stay grounded in justice amid attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion.

In episode 4, our hosts Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega chat with guest Dr. Cherina Betters of San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools. They'll discuss the challenges involved in doing DEI work and showing up for students with an approach of courage, consistency and care.