On this episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with Dr. Terence Lester, author of From Dropout to Doctorate: Breaking the Chains of Educational Injustice. Terence shares his remarkable journey from leaving high school to earning his doctorate, offering teachers a raw and honest perspective on the hidden battles many students face. Together, they explore how educators can support students who struggle academically and emotionally, especially those without strong support at home.
From breaking systemic barriers to building resilience, Terence’s story is a reminder that behind every statistic is a student waiting to be seen. Whether you’re a teacher, leader, or advocate for equity, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you connect with and champion the most vulnerable students in your classroom.
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About Dr. Lester
Dr. Terence Lester is a storyteller, public scholar, author, and nationally recognized community activist. He is the Founder and Executive Director of Love Beyond Walls, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about poverty and homelessness and mobilizing communities for meaningful change.
Dr. Lester holds a PhD in Public Policy and Social Change and is widely known for his powerful advocacy on behalf of the unhoused. His work has been featured on CNN, USA Today, The Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS News, NBC, and more, reaching millions around the world. He was also named a Coca-Cola History Shaker for his impact.
He is the author of several books, including I See You, When We Stand, and All God’s Children, as well as a children’s book co-written with his daughter, Zion Learns to See: Opening Our Eyes to Homelessness. His newest book, From Dropout to Doctorate: Breaking the Chains of Educational Injustice, will be released in Fall 2025.
Dr. Lester writes a weekly newsletter, From Streets to Scholarship, exploring the intersections of public policy, poverty, race, and faith. He lives in Atlanta with his wife, Cecilia, and their family.
About Franchesca Thompson
Franchesca Thompson is the owner of Thrive12 and host of Everything But The Lesson Plan. With a passion for supporting teachers in and out of the classroom, she shares real stories, resources, and conversations that inspire educators to thrive personally and professionally.
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