In this episode of Enhancing Equity in Elementary Education, host Stephen Hurley engages in a thought-provoking Speaker’s Corner conversation with Pam Agawa, the Human Rights and Equity Lead for Keewatin Patricia District School Board. With her extensive background in education and recent experience working with the provincial government, Pam discusses the complexities and daily challenges of promoting equity and human rights in education, as well as her efforts to support students, families, and staff.
The discussion addresses the shift from research to actionable steps, the importance of community relationships, and innovative approaches to overcoming systemic barriers. This episode provides listeners with practical insights into the strategies being employed to enhance equity in Ontario's elementary education system, highlighting the ongoing efforts to create inclusive and supportive learning environments.
Some key messages from this episode include:
- Action Over Research: Pam emphasizes the need to move from continuous data collection to implementing concrete actions that address educational equity challenges.
- Community and Relationships: Establishing strong, reciprocal relationships within communities is crucial for the success of equity initiatives.
- Innovation and Precedent: Pam advocates for innovation in overcoming systemic barriers. She stresses the importance of collaboration among educational leaders across different districts to set new precedents and push the boundaries of established protocols.
To access the transcript for this podcast episode, click (PDF file) here (opens in new window) .