In this episode, host Caitlin Howley, director of child welfare and education at ICF, examines the issue of racial equity in Appalachian education. The conversation with Director of the Regional Comprehensive Center, Kandace Jones, and First2 Network Program Coordinator, Jade Irving, covers such topics as:

• Why racial equity in education matters so much for the future of Appalachia.
• Current trends and shifting attitudes toward social justice in Appalachia.
• The importance of student exposure and staff training in reaching racial equity.
• The achievement and opportunity gaps in learning—and what to do about them.
• The systemic nature of racial inequality in education, and the systemic solutions required to combat the issue.

NOTE: Jade Irving appears on this podcast in a personal capacity. She does not represent the views of her employer.