Posts by Liza Gleason
Calling White Educators to an In-person Opportunity to Connect, Regulate, and Prepare for the Year Ahead
Last year was one of the most challenging ones we’ve experienced as educators, and—between the continued fallout from the war in Gaza, the upcoming election, and the ongoing pushback on DEI—there are sure to be many tense and complex moments this fall. As white educators, we’re often conditioned into silence; this year especially, silence will…
Read MoreConsider Joining “Sustaining and Evolving Anti-Racist Practices”: A Message from the Facilitators
In the summer of 2020, after the murder of George Floyd, record numbers of white people heeded the national call to step out of the shadows. White educators were no different. We heard countless stories of racism shared by BIPOC students—both online and within our independent school communities. For white educators, that summer was particularly…
Read MoreDear White Educator: What’s Your Summer Plan?
First, I want to say happy summer. I know how hard you have worked this year, and you deserve a rest. Summer has meant so much more to educators these past few years, and it’s essential to take the time to pause and take care of yourself. As you consider how you’ll rejuvenate and soak…
Read MoreWhat it Means to be White: We’ll Never Know if We Don’t Learn to Sit Deep Within It
I was well into my twenties the first time I was confronted with my racial identity. I’d just begun the Mills College Credential program and I was bubbling with excitement. I’d wanted to be a teacher since early college days. That first term, I took a class called Introduction to the Profession. From the course…
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