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In this episode of the Teachers Forum podcast, host David Harris interviews J. Stacy Utley, a critically acclaimed visual artist and educator from Charlotte, North Carolina. They discuss Stacy's journey into education, his evolution as an artist, and the importance of storytelling in art. Stacy shares his experiences in architecture and public art, emphasizing the significance of representation and community engagement in his work. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of gentrification and how art plays a role in shaping communities. In this conversation, Stacy discusses the intersection of art, community, and gentrification, exploring how urban planning affects artists and neighborhoods. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement in public art projects and the role of art education in fostering creative problem-solving skills. Stacy shares his current projects and reflects on the influence of teachers in his life, highlighting the significance of storytelling in art and the need for authenticity in artistic expression.

To learn more about Stacy and his work you can visit his website at jstacyutley.com

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david@theteachersforum.org
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Send us a text message and let us know what you think and for ideas for future episodes.

In this episode of the Teachers Forum, host David Harris interviews Adrian Gordon, a distinguished music educator and composer and one of only a handful of Black composers of classical music in the nation. Adrian shares his unique journey in music, from his early influences growing up in a Jamaican household to his experiences in music education and composition. He discusses the challenges of representation in classical music, the importance of mentorship, and the need for diverse voices in music education. Adrian emphasizes the significance of introducing young students to a variety of musical styles and the role of composers in shaping the future of music education. In this conversation, Adrian Gordon discusses his involvement in the Canon Project, which aims to diversify music education and promote young black composers. He reflects on his multifaceted career as a composer, performer, teacher, and author, emphasizing how these roles inform one another. Adrian also shares insights from his book 'Note to Self,' which addresses the challenges of transitioning into new teaching environments and the importance of mental health and authenticity in education. He also explores the concept of imposter syndrome, particularly among educators of color, and discusses the current state of inclusivity in classical music.

To contact Adrian you can reach him at Adriangordonmusic.com
You can also listen to Adrian's composition, "A Tender Moment in Time" on YouTube
For more on black composers in classical music click here.

Join the Conversation:
david@theteachersforum.org
X (formerly Twitter) @theforum1993
Please subscribe, share and leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Help us amplify the voices and issues of K-12 educators all over the world.

Send us a text message and let us know what you think and for ideas for future episodes.

In this episode of the Teachers Forum, host David Harris engages in a deep discussion with educators Melanee Duncan Friday and Dave Stieber about the pressing issues of mental health in students, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. They explore the impact of social media, the challenges faced by students in processing emotions, and the role of schools in providing support. The conversation highlights the need for more resources, the importance of trauma-informed teaching, and the complexities of managing cell phone use in educational settings. In this conversation, educators discuss the impact of technology on learning, the challenges of teaching history and critical race theory, and the media's portrayal of parental perspectives in education. They explore the balance between digital citizenship and classroom management, and ultimately reflect on what gives them hope in the current educational landscape.

Additional resources on the topics discussed in the episode:

• Addressing mental health challenges among students in all grade levels.
  • Kid's Declining Mental Health Is the 'Crisis of our Time,' Surgeon General Says
• Cell phone bans in schools across the country
  • Why Schools Are Racing to Ban Student Phones
  • Schools Say No to Cellphones, but is it a good idea
  • A look at state efforts to ban cell phones
• Black History Bans
  • Black History 'Underground Railroad" forms across U.S. after increase of book bans

Join the Conversation:
david@theteachersforum.org
X (formerly Twitter) @theforum1993
Please subscribe, share and leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Help us amplify the voices and issues of K-12 educators all over the world.