Elevating Youth Scholar Voice Through Antiracist Educational Practices

Session Type: Invited Speaker Session

Abstract

In this session, attendees will reflect upon the questions, “How can I create increased educational spaces aligned to culturally and linguistically responsive teaching practices that elevate student voice?” and “How does elevating student voice play a key role in dismantling racial injustice?” Through an interactive rotation of table and artistic presentations, distinguished 9th through 12th grade youth scholars from the Buffalo Public School District will document their experiences and learning outcomes as participants in the Office of Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Initiatives’ nationally recognized scholar programs. Youth scholars will reflect upon their own experiences in these programs and share key learnings, lived experiences and personal thoughts, and their own ideas for creating brave spaces which elevate student voice and action to disrupt racial injustices and inequalities in education. Additionally, youth scholars will discuss how participation in programs grounded in culturally and linguistically responsive teaching practices hone their social justice advocacy skills, identity and sense of self, and appreciation for the value of anti-racist educational experiences.

Sub Unit

• AERA Presidential Session

Chair

• Fatima Morrell, Southampton Union Free School District

Participants

• Nevah Foster, Buffalo Public Schools

• Damariel Hill, Buffalo Public Schools

• Michael Hunley, Buffalo Public Schools

• Abu Jallow, Buffalo Public Schools

• Abu Jallow, Buffalo Public Schools

• MD Khandaker, Buffalo Public Schools

• Robert Procter, Buffalo Public Schools

• Jordan Rookstool-Woods, Buffalo Public Schools

• Jamari Shaw, Buffalo Public Schools

• Savanna Turner, Buffalo Public Schools

• Calieb Walker, Buffalo Public Schools

• Avery Williams, Buffalo Public Schools

• Paul Wilson, Buffalo Public Schools

Discussant

• Jevon D. Hunter, Buffalo State University - SUNY