Black educators are, and always have been, invaluable. Their work reaches far beyond the classroom with its positive impact on all students and their fellow educators of color. Yet, Black educators still face systemic obstacles not experienced by their white peers, severe undervaluing and recognition of their work, and hostile work environments.
In spite of these burdens, both spoken and unspoken, Black educators continue to inspire students and their fellow teachers. We see evidence of this daily on Twitter, with some of our favorite pedagogical approaches, engagement strategies, activities, EdTech resources, and more.
Some have also chosen to share their experiences as Black educators. We know it is not their responsibility to do so, but are so appreciative of the ways they have shaped re-education and prioritization of equity in education.
So, here are 7 educators we’re following on Twitter who have shared amazing ideas for teaching, strategies for equity, more accurate views of history, and resources we can use to continue to learn.
1. Chris Emdin
Chris Emdin is a teacher, scholar, and the author of For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood… and the Rest of Y’all Too: Reality Pedagogy and Urban Education. He provides actionable steps to be an effective educator in urban schools, and emphasizes the importance of believing in students.
2. Jessie Hagopian
Hagopian is an ethnic studies teacher. He wrote the book “Black Lives Matter at School,” and continues to share the reality of Black education and the importance of educational justice in schools.
3. Martin Odima, Jr.
Odima is a teacher coach that understands that to be an effective educator, one must acknowledge inequity and oppression of Black students and educators.
4. Jornea Armant
Armant is a Head of Innovator Innovation and has a wealth of experience and information on Instructional Technology. She regularly posts newsletters, resources, and strategies for your “Teacher Tech Toolbox,” as she calls it
5. Yaritza Villalba
Educator and founder of non-profit YV Educational Resources Inc., Villalba is an expert on improving learning outcomes and shares a wealth of information to help other educators do the same.
6. Amber Coleman-Mortley
Coleman-Mortley is an Edtech teacher that understands the importance of cultural competence, SEL, representation, and access. She recently posted her Black History Month Toolkit, which we plan on referencing throughout the year!
7. Dr. Ibram X. Kendi
We know that there is no American History without Black History. Dr. Kendi an historian, scholar, and author that shares his research to provide a more accurate view of history and help people understand what it means to be anti-racist. He was recently named by Time Magazine as one of the Top 100 Influential People of 2020!
Who are some of your favorite Black educators that you follow for teaching resources? We’d love to hear about them!