forwardED, LLC

12/03/2024

I’ve heard from many of you—teachers, leaders, allies—who are worried about what this past election means for our work. Some are even considering stepping back, afraid of the consequences. Let me tell you: Now is not the time to retreat.

Stay the course.

This is a moment to dig in, push forward, and hold fast to the work we’ve dedicated ourselves to—the work that matters.

Yes, the political landscape may shift, but that doesn’t mean the fight for equity is over—quite the opposite.

Let’s be clear: This election wasn’t the overwhelming rejection of equity some claim. Trump may have won, but with less than a majority of the popular vote (just over 49 percent to Harris's more than 48 percent). The mandate isn’t as sweeping as it might seem. The Senate and House remain closely contested. This is no time to let narratives of defeat take root.

The truth is that people aren’t rejecting the idea of equity. They’re rejecting performative gestures that lack substance and feel dismissive and just plain wrong. What people are really seeking is belonging. Justice. Schools where children feel safe, cared for, and valued. Communities where systems serve everyone, not just a select few.

This work—our work—is about building a future that reflects those ideals. That’s not a vision to abandon. It’s a promise to fulfill. Let's fulfill it!

So I urge you: Dig in. Hold your ground. Push where you can, and refuse to give up. We are shaping the future with every step we take.

08/16/2024

A true education is not just the transfer of knowledge but the cultivation of humanity, where every student is seen, heard, and valued.

To read more, visit forward-ed.com

08/03/2024

Dignity-driven education is more than equity (how we respond within an inequitable system). It pivots to belonging (how do we create systems

07/16/2024

Integrating equity thoroughly into education by making it a foundational aspect across all departments and activities, supported by comprehensive plans and budgets. This integration aims to safeguard equity efforts against political opposition by embedding them deeply within institutional culture and climate. Additionally, they stress the importance of promoting accountability and excellence in equity work through effective communication of its benefits, addressing criticism, and ensuring high standards in implementation to sustain equitable practices collectively.

07/16/2024

In recent months, there has been a troubling backlash against equity initiatives, which some district superintendents and equity officers find disheartening. This backlash is evident in legislative measures across states like Florida, where laws restrict discussions on race in schools and workplaces, and in school renaming decisions reverting to Confederate affiliations. Corporations such as Anheuser-Busch and Disney have also faced repercussions for inclusivity efforts. Furthermore, legal and institutional changes, like bans on equity programs and Supreme Court decisions, signify a retreat from progress in areas like college admissions and police reform. Despite these challenges, the author emphasizes the essential role of true equity in fostering fairness, access, and belonging in society. They advocate for integrating equity comprehensively in education and promoting accountability to sustain and advance equitable practices amid adversity.

Click the link in bio to read more.

07/30/2023

At forwardED we are embracing AI. We understand the potential dilemmas with privacy and bias, but know it can never replace people. We believe it can help us transform the world and advance justice and dignity in education. It’s not about the tool; it’s about what you do with it.

07/28/2023

Instead of managing classrooms, learn how to build community in classrooms. Let’s advance the conversation.

07/25/2023

When we work together to break down barriers and promote equity, amazing things happen! Let’s share success stories and inspire others to join the movement.

07/20/2023

Check out this article on restorative justice:

Maryland lawmakers prioritized the alternative disciplinary practice four years ago, but the rollout has been complicated

07/20/2023

Restorative justice is less about how it looks than how it feels. It should feel different, affirming, and empowering. It should move away from the idea that discipline is about punishment and closer to the idea that it is about building community and character.

05/21/2022

You will get there, so don't stop because change is about relentless movement. We will go with you. To learn more, visit forward-ed.com.