Building the Black Educator Pipeline
The Politics of Fighting for Black Students (Ft. Councilmember Isaiah Thomas)
Episode Summary
Philadelphia City Councilmember Isaiah Thomas joins the show to discuss fighting for educational change as an elected official and the politics are improving our schools.
Episode Notes
Isaiah Thomas discusses the intersection of education and politics, emphasizing the need for increased funding and support for schools.
He shares his personal journey in education, highlighting the impact of mentorship and programs like Freedom Schools. Thomas emphasizes the importance of teachers and mentors in shaping the lives of young people and calls for higher wages for educators.
He also discusses the role of the federal government in education and the need for systemic changes in how schools are funded. Thomas concludes by urging listeners to participate in elections and support candidates who prioritize education.
Takeaways
- Mentorship and programs like Freedom Schools can have a profound impact on young people, shaping their future aspirations and instilling a sense of service.
- Teachers and mentors have the power to make a lasting impression on students, not just through academic instruction, but also by how they make students feel.
- The intersection of education and politics is crucial, as elected officials have the power to allocate resources and make decisions that directly impact schools and students.
- Higher wages for educators are necessary to attract and retain talented individuals in the teaching profession.
- The federal government should provide more funding and support for education, including addressing capital deficits and investing in innovative approaches to learning.
- Changing the funding model for schools, particularly by increasing resources and making education a top priority, can lead to better outcomes for students.
- Individuals should participate in elections and support candidates who prioritize education and are committed to improving the education system.