Courageous Conversations: Dr. Shantha Smith | Episode 02

beyond the curriculum

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

— Arthur Ashe

In the wake of nation-wide protests that resulted from the death of an African American man at the knee of white police officers, it is clear racism is deeply ingrained in the fabric of our county. However, it is also clear that many Americans want to confront racism in order to become a nation that values ALL of its citizens regardless of race. Though conversations around racism are difficult, they are necessary if we want to make a significant impact.

So, how can teachers start having conversations about racism within their building?

Dr. Shantha Smith is an Equity and Excellence Coordinator and Instructional Lead Educator in Arlington, VA, where she works to transform school culture. She is dedicated to making her school a more equitable learning environment for all students by challenging staff to reflect on how their practice is informed by implicit bias and the impact it makes on students of color.

In this episode, I have the pleasure to learn how Dr. Smith opens these conversations with colleagues which challenges them to think in ways that take them, beyond the curriculum.

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