NCTCA 2025

This thought provoking session will delve into the complexities of racism and anti-racism in education. Inspired by Dr. Beverly Tatum's analogy of the walkway towards addressing racism. You will gain a foundational comprehension of how racism is deeply interwoven into society’s fabric and our education system, often concealed from view. It is this concealed nature that necessitates our active pursuit of anti-racism. We'll embark on a journey to challenge common misconceptions like "colorblindness" and the notion of a pure meritocracy. We aim to dispel the belief that racism is a thing of the past or confined to isolated incidents of hatred. Instead, we'll cultivate a profound comprehension of its ever-present, pervasive nature that affects us all in varying, sometimes imperceptible, ways. Some may be acutely aware of its presence, while others remain oblivious. The aim is clear: to ensure equitable treatment for all so that every child can access the same high-quality education and have the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. Together, we will work towards creating a more just and inclusive educational future for all. You'll leave with an understanding of how racism is deeply woven into society's fabric, with a focus on actively practicing anti-racism to ensure equitable treatment for all in our schools. You'll gain practical tools, knowledge, and strategies, empowering you to be a better ally to your students and colleagues. Join me as we unmask the hidden dimensions of racism and commit to a future where every child's potential is nurtured.

Are you dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in your classroom? This empowering session integrates culturally responsive teaching, antiracism, and allyship. We will explore practical strategies grounded in anti-racism principles to create a welcoming, inclusive, and safe learning environment for all students. Learn how educators plays a crucial role in dismantling systemic barriers and fostering belonging for ALL students. Participants will leave this session equipped with a wealth of actionable insights and tools to implement immediate change in educational spaces, cultivating a more equitable educational experience for ALL students.

In the first half of this session, employees from Black Gold Schools will lead you through the story of their first year starting and running Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). You will learn what an ERG is, and how it can offer a meaningful internal community of shared identities (racial, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, etc) that offers a route to equity and inclusion in the workplace. You will leave this session with access to a folder of all our resources (PD we have completed and offered, info on how to structure meetings, etc). In the second half of this session, we will offer a panel discussion where participants will have the opportunity to ask ERG members questions, as well as anything else related to our pursuit of a more inclusive workplace.

Global crisis’, rights and equity issues are entering, and sometimes disrupting, classrooms within increasing frequency, leaving both students and educators feeling overwhelmed and hopeless. In this session, participants will explore approaches that create environments where they can explore complex topics and equip students with tools to address injustice. Participants will also examine how classroom culture, courage to engage in complex conversations and project-based learning, can be used together to help students find hope and equip them with skills to take action.