Comrade Chris and Ismael Jimenez discuss the evolving role of teachers as activists in the face of increasing educational regulations. They explore the importance of networking among educators, the need for accessible resources in social studies, and the intersection of civics and current events in education. 

The discussion also touches on the potential for community-driven folk schools to fill gaps in traditional education, the importance of practical skills for future preparedness, and a critical assessment of the current state of activism and its challenges. They discuss the importance of connecting with global Blackness and Africa, the challenges of anti-Blackness in multiracial contexts, and the complexities of Latino identity. The conversation emphasizes the need for solidarity, collective power, and education to navigate the historical and contemporary struggles faced by Black communities.

Chris, Sharif and Ish cover the implications of recent lawsuits that threaten educational initiatives and funding for Black individuals, emphasizing the need for collective action and strategic planning to combat these challenges. The episode covers the historical context of Black resistance and the importance of funding independent organizations that advocate for equity. It also highlights the cultural shifts within the Black community and the necessity of fostering a collective identity to address systemic issues. Chris, Sharif and Ish discuss the importance of Black scholarship in advocating for educational equity and highlight the significance of defending Black educational programs and pipelines.

Chris Stewart and Sharif El-Mekki discuss implore us to think critically about public schools in the United States. They share insights from their visits to Montessori schools, highlighting the benefits of student-centered learning environments. They discuss the impact of charter schools on public education, and the role of choice in improving educational outcomes. They highlight public school success stories, the significance of diverse leadership, and the need for empowerment among Black educators. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of networking and community building, as well as the necessity for fellowship among educators to drive future initiatives.

Chris, Ish, and Sharif discuss the case of hip hop mogul P. Diddy, exploring the implications for the music industry and its impact on youth culture. They delve into the darker aspects of the industry, discussing corruption and exploitation. The conversation also covers the indictment of Mayor Eric Adams and the case of Marcellus Williams, who was executed despite evidence pointing to his innocence, highlighting the failures of the justice system and the need for authentic leadership. The episode concludes with a call to action for more grassroots efforts in education and community building, emphasizing the importance of literacy and awareness in the fight for justice and equality.

Chris, Ish, and Sharif discuss the issue of school shootings in the United States. They explore the cultural and societal factors that contribute to these incidents, including gun culture, access to firearms, mental health, and the devaluing of life. They also examine the role of law enforcement and the challenges of addressing gun violence in urban communities. The conversation highlights the need for comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of these shootings and prioritize the safety and well-being of students. The conversation explores different perspectives on how to address the problem, including the labeling of young offenders as 'killers' and the need for a balance between justice and understanding. They also touch on the role of the NRA, the importance of investing in prevention and support services in schools, and the need to create safe and inclusive environments for all students.

Conscious Lee, an educator and social media influencer, discusses his journey in education and the power of using social media platforms to educate a wider audience. He shares how his love for education began in the classroom, and highlights his experience as a debater, where he broke history as part of first black debate team to go undefeated at the national debate tournament. He emphasizes the importance of debate in developing critical thinking and communication skills. and discusses the challenges he faces as a black educator, including backlash and attacks on social media. He emphasizes the importance of being a loud learner and seeking knowledge from various sources. The conversation concludes with reflections on the power of education and the importance of finding the right educators for individual learning styles.

Dr. Charles Cole III tells us about his insightful report, 'Oakland 2023 24: Proficiency Over Pageantry.' They address the significant disconnect between grades and actual proficiency levels among students, with a particular focus on the Black community's struggle to access quality education. Dr. Cole underscores the necessity of community involvement, agency, and self-reliance, urging parents and communities to actively partake in their children's educational journey.

The discussion highlights the systemic issues within the education system, the dangers of inflated grades, and the collective responsibility needed to ensure all children achieve meaningful educational outcomes. By encouraging awareness, navigation, and community duty, Dr. Cole's insights provide a roadmap for addressing educational disparities and fostering systemic change.

Let's explore the essential elements of a great school and why everything from safety and cultural inclusivity, to overall educational design are so important, Chris and Sharif delve into the impact of school policies on childhood, the role of educators in shaping a positive learning environment, and the need for age-appropriate education on historical injustices. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of thoughtful planning and a student-centered approach. The conversation covers the importance of culturally safe and inclusive education, the impact of teachers on students' experiences, and the need for cross-cultural learning. It also addresses the concepts of racism, white supremacy, and anti-blackness, emphasizing the need for a more human-centered approach to education. Let us know in the comments, what makes a good school in your mind?

Brightbeam CEO, Chris "Citizen" Stewart and Ismael Jimenez, Director of Social Studies Curriculum for the School District of Philadelphia, explore the importance of high-quality curriculum in education. The conversation covers the issue of teachers sourcing curriculum from unreliable websites and the need for better quality control. The role of parents in monitoring curriculum and engaging in conversations with teachers is emphasized. Chris and Ismael also highlight problems with bad curriculum, such as the lack of guidance or reliance on biased perspectives. Humanizing education and focusing on pedagogical skills are identified as key factors in improving curriculum quality. The conversation delves into the importance of effective teaching, the need for teacher support and professional development, and the challenges of curriculum and "indoctrination."

Malcolm X was born 99 years ago last weekend. In this powerful conversation, Ish, Sharif, and Chris delve into his multi-faceted legacy, debunking myths, and exploring his enduring influence on black thought, activism, and the quest for racial justice. From his early years and evolving views to the misconceptions surrounding his stance on violence and separatism, the conversation offers a nuanced examination of Malcolm X's contributions and the global resonance of his message. The discussion also touches on contemporary issues, drawing parallels between Malcolm's teachings and modern-day challenges in the black community, emphasizing the importance of self-love, critical consciousness, and education in the ongoing struggle for freedom.