Our Classroom

A librarian at the Los Angeles Public Library went viral after giving one of the funniest and most thoughtful explanations of internet slang ever recorded.

But beyond the humor lies a deeper message about curiosity, culture, and why libraries still matter.

In this episode of Our Classroom, host Roberto Germán reflects on what this viral moment teaches us about learning in public, bridging generations, and approaching education with humility and curiosity.

Because whether we’re in classrooms or libraries, the goal is the same: to create spaces where learning feels human again.

The librarian as cultural translator

Why curiosity is a powerful teaching tool

Learning in public vs. performative knowledge

Libraries as spaces for connection and equity

How this viral moment mirrors the mission of Multicultural Classroom

Video clip on Instagram

Multicultural Classroom

0:00 – Welcome to Our Classroom
1:00 – The Viral Librarian Moment
3:00 – The Power of Curiosity
5:00 – Learning in Public
7:00 – Making Learning Human Again 

In this follow-up to “The Difference Between Harmful Books and Harm-Exposing Books,” host Roberto Germán responds to a public comment on Lorena Germán’s recent post — a comment that reflects a common misunderstanding about book banning and access.

In this episode, Roberto unpacks the language used in conversations about “restricted” versus “banned” books, revealing how the distinction is often used to downplay the real issue: power and control in education. 

Through reflection and challenge, this episode invites listeners to rethink what it means when schools remove certain stories — and who ultimately benefits when harm-exposing books are kept off the shelves.

Blog: “Harmful Books vs. Harm-Exposing Books” by Lorena Germán

Learn more at multiculturalclassroom.com

In this episode of Our Classroom, host Roberto Germán expands on Lorena Escoto Germán’s blog post “Harmful Books vs. Harm-Exposing Books.” Roberto breaks down the crucial difference between books that perpetuate harm and those that reveal it to inspire empathy and justice. Through this lens, he explores how silence, stereotypes, and unchecked bias shape what students read — and how banning books written by marginalized authors silences essential voices. Tune in to learn how educators, parents, and readers can defend harm-exposing books and nurture classrooms rooted in truth, love, and humanity.

0:00 – Intro: Why this conversation matters

2:20 – What makes a book harmful

8:10 – What makes a book harm-exposing

13:30 – Why book bans target these stories

18:00 – How educators can stand for truth and love

22:00 – Closing reflections

In this episode of Our Classroom, New York Times bestselling author Abigail Hing Wen joins to explore how storytelling can be a dynamic tool for teaching students about artificial intelligence. Diving into her new middle-grade novel, "The Vale," Abigail shares her vision of a hopeful, creative, and ethical approach to technology—one where young people are empowered, not intimidated, by AI.

We discuss the power of fiction to foster tech literacy, empathy, and imagination. The conversation also highlights the importance of diversity in both tech and storytelling, as seen through the journey of Bran, a neurodiverse protagonist navigating both real and virtual worlds. Abigail shares candid insights from her experiences in Silicon Valley, offers inspiration for educators to use "The Vale" and its companion film in the classroom, and encourages students to become thoughtful creators and users of technology.

Welcome to Our Classroom!

In this episode of Our Classroom, titled "Shaping the World," Lorena Germán invites us to a vibrant conversation with renowned author and illustrator Yuyi Morales. Recorded as part of the Latinx Kid Lit Book Festival, this episode dives into the transformative power of children's literature and how stories can spark imagination, resilience, and hope—especially in challenging times.

Yuyi Morales shares the journey behind her latest book, "Little Rebels / Peques Rebeldes," offering a glimpse into what it means to be a rebel in today’s world, the importance of land and community in her stories, and the healing possibilities that children’s books offer to both young readers and adults alike. Through thoughtful questions and heartfelt discussion, Lorena and Yuyi explore the essential role that artists and writers play as “antennas” attuned to the needs and potential of society, as well as the responsibility of creating stories that nurture and empower children.

Tune in for a conversation brimming with warmth, wisdom, and practical insights on how storytelling shapes not only our educational experiences, but also the world at large. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or lifelong learner, you’ll find inspiration and actionable ideas to bring more love, care, and creativity into your own "classroom."

In this episode, Eric Royo, founder of Hip Hop Building Blocks, joins to explore the intersection of hip hop culture and social emotional learning (SEL). Eric, a lifelong hip hop artist and seasoned educator from New York, shares the transformative impact hip hop has had on his life and how it inspired him to create an innovative, culturally relevant educational platform. From stories of international connections in Australia to building empowering communities in the classroom, Eric dives into the foundational “building blocks” every student needs—peace, love, unity, and fun—and how hip hop pedagogy can cultivate meaningful relationships, cultural pride, and real engagement. Whether you’re an educator, hip hop head, or just passionate about youth empowerment, get ready for a dynamic conversation about disrupting traditional approaches to SEL, fostering belonging, and the power of collaboration within our communities.

In this episode, Roberto sits down with Edgar Palacios, a dynamic advocate for Latino representation in education and the founder of both the Latinx Education Collaborative and Revolución Educativa. Edgar shares his journey from growing up in a vibrant Latino community in Miami to feeling isolated in less diverse environments, and how these experiences fueled his passion for educational equity.

Together, they dive deep into the challenges facing Latinx youth in schools today—from persistent systemic barriers and underrepresentation among educators to the urgent need for collective action and community engagement. Edgar offers candid insights into shifting mindsets, building meaningful change, and the power of love and self-acceptance in advocacy work. Whether you're an educator, parent, or ally, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical advice for making a real impact in your community.

 IG - Latinx Education Collaborative

AI isn’t here to replace teachers—it’s here to support them. In this episode, Roberto Germán explores how educators can shift their mindset and classroom practice to embrace AI as a powerful partner, not a threat. From grading hacks to real-world projects that outsmart AI misuse, you’ll discover actionable ways to save time, boost engagement, and protect the integrity of student learning.

You’ll learn:

✅ How to use AI responsibly as a teaching tool

✅ Strategies to design “AI-proof” assignments

✅ Tips to guide students toward ethical AI use

Whether you’re skeptical or curious, this episode offers a clear, practical path for educators navigating the AI era—without losing the human heart of teaching.

In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto sits down with Jackson Garcia, the dynamic Dean of Students at Renaissance Charter School at Coral Springs. Known for his commitment to equity-driven leadership and culturally responsive teaching, Jackson shares his journey from aspiring political science major to visionary educational leader. Together, they explore what it takes to foster a truly inclusive and supportive school culture, tackle the nuances of restorative discipline, and unpack the importance of building strong, trusting relationships among students, faculty, and families.

Jackson offers insight into navigating the challenges and rewards of working in a richly diverse K-8 environment in South Florida—a place where being a leader of color is both celebrated and empowering. From candid stories about student discipline to the significance of hiring practices and relevant professional development, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for educators striving to create relationship-centered, culturally responsive learning spaces.

Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or someone passionate about the future of education, this conversation will inspire you to lead with humility, empathy, and vision. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt discussion on building environments where every learner feels seen, heard, and valued.

Is your school committed to equity but still seeing gaps in student experience, staff retention, or instructional impact? In this episode, Roberto Germán explores why so many well-intentioned school initiatives stall—and what real transformation looks like when equity is embedded across culture, instruction, and leadership.

You’ll walk away with:

✅ 3 common mistakes schools make

✅ A vision for sustainable culture change

✅ Concrete next steps for moving from intention to action

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, principal, or district leader, this episode will help you reimagine what meaningful progress can look like in your school community.

🎧 Tune in and visit multiculturalclassroom.com to learn how we support schools in building inclusive, engaging, and purposeful learning environments.

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Resources - Textured Teaching