03/16/2026
It was such a joy and an honor to present my Real Self Care as Systemic Change workshop at the !!
In my first year as a teacher, I was invited into a local NEA meeting by a veteran teacher. And, honestly, beyond the basics, I didn’t really know what the NEA did or why it would be worthwhile to lean into my local union.
Needless to say, after a few meetings and my first NEA convention, I understood the power of this union. Coming together to advocate, to learn, and to support one another as educators sparked so much growth in my teaching practice.Standing in solidarity with thousands of other educators who are passionate about creating and evolving our public school systems literally changed my life.
So to be a small part of giving back to educators in this space felt like a full circle moment. In my workshop, we discussed how, yes, of course outward political action is necessary for creating life-giving schools for all AND how inward reflection, care, and integration are also essential for creating life giving schools for all. And my absolute favorite part was integrating game Afro-Rithms For The Future into the workshop! This invited us to play our way into radically imagining what the future of education could look like. What a joy!!
I wish I would have taken more pictures!! But, also grateful to have been fully present in this experience. And grateful to be able to do this work with (one of) my babies with me!
(And shout out to for this great shirt!)
