Going public: Education scholars as policy advocates

Going public: Education scholars as policy advocates

Author: Ethical Schools August 12, 2022 Duration: 47:45

We speak with Dr. Kevin Kumashiro, a founder of Education Deans for Justice and Equity and organizer of the International Conferences on Education and Justice. Dr. Kumashiro describes how education scholars across the country are forming professional communities, both to build their capacity and to speak collectively on issues of public policy, leveraging their research to promote justice and equity. He argues that progressives must cease ceding the framework of education policy to corporate forces.

Overview 

00:00-00:47 Intros

00:47-02:15 Importance of scholars collectively addressing policy issues

02:15-05:08 Horizontal organizing

05:08-09:03 Examples of public statements on policy issues

09:03-15:35 Different nature of different stalwarts—intersection of mobilization, public education and advocacy

15:35-20:12 CareEd in California

20:12-24:22 Education Deans for Justice and Equity

24:22-26:18 “Think tank” aspects

26:18-32:02 EDJE Framework for Assessment and Transformation

32:02-40:59 “Surrender”: How progressives are losing some of the biggest battles to the corporate sector

40:59-44:12 12 International Conference on Education and Justice in October 2022

44:12- Outro

Transcript

Click here to see the full transcript of this episode.

References


Conversations about education often focus on test scores and curriculum, but there’s a deeper layer that truly shapes a student’s experience. Ethical Schools digs into that layer, exploring what it means to build a learning community grounded in integrity and care. Each week, hosts Amy and Jon sit down with educators and innovators who are actively reimagining schools. You’ll hear specific, grounded discussions about the practical work of creating environments where every student feels safe and respected. The dialogue frequently addresses how to support young people dealing with trauma, moving beyond theory to share actionable strategies that teachers are using right now. More than just problem-solving, this podcast highlights how to empower students themselves to become advocates and changemakers in their own communities. It’s a series that connects philosophy with daily practice, looking at the social and cultural structures within schools through a lens of ethics. For anyone invested in the future of education-whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or simply a concerned community member-this podcast offers a thoughtful and necessary perspective on the foundational values that make education meaningful.
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