In this episode of Teaching Channel Talks, Dr. Wendy Amato is joined by educator, author, and consultant Kwame Sarfo-Mensah to talk about honoring student identity in everyday teaching. Drawing from his new book Learning to Relearn, Kwame shares personal stories and practical strategies around identity, decentering, and collective action. He and Wendy discuss how cultural awareness, reflection, and empathy can shape stronger student-teacher relationships. Listen in for ways to build trust, center student voices, and create classrooms where every learner feels they belong.

Resources for Continued Learning

Explore the Book Learning to Relearn

Learning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally Affirming Classroom is Kwame Sarfo-Mensah’s latest release for educators who want to center student identity and reflect on their own role in the classroom. The book offers questions and stories that challenge educators to reexamine old habits and stay rooted in what students actually need.

Visit Learning2Relearn.com to download chapter previews, find discussion guides, and access tools that help you bring the book into your teaching practice.

Bring Identity Work Into Your School or District

Kwame founded Identity Talk Consulting, a group offering workshops, coaching, and speaking engagements focused on affirming student identity, building strong teacher habits, and supporting educators as they grow in the classroom.