In the first episode of the Stand With Educators series, Alexis discusses the first steps to creating systemic change for the teaching profession. Though our burnout is not our fault, it’s our responsibility to ensure we are taking the necessary steps to understand that we often play a role in our burnout when we perpetuate harmful narratives.  In this episode, Alexis will help you start to think about what matters most to you as a teacher and will give practical tips so you can teach and live more authentically. 

In this episode you will:

• Understand how agency and advocacy go together to create change. (6:40) 
• Learn how the history of teaching impacted today’s teaching culture. (8:00) 
• Understand how reflecting on and challenging the stories we tell ourselves is the start of systemic change. (12:00)  
• Know how crafting a mission statement is in keeping you centered. (15:00) 
• Understand the importance of setting and maintaining clear boundaries. (16:40) 

CALL TO ACTION: THINGS YOU CAN DO TOMORROW 

1. Reflect - The stories we tell ourselves are very powerful, and challenging them is the first step towards change.  Take out your journal, meditate, or whatever mode is best for you and ask yourself “What are the stories I tell myself and believe about my current situation?”
2. Craft a mission statement - Writing a mission statement will keep you grounded and focused on your “why”.  Click here for a template to guide you in writing your own.  
3. Set boundaries - Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries around your time are so important.  Take time to determine what you’ll say “yes” and “no” to.  

FIND ALEXIS 

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.theafroeducator.com

Instagram, Twitter: @theafroeducator

Facebook: The AfroEducator

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 

Previous Episodes Alexis was featured in: 

• Episode 108 - Stand with Educators with Alexis and Kaitlin
• Episode 73 - Color Your Perspective: A Candid Conversation with Alexis Shepard
• Episode 48 - Challenging the “Good Teacher Narrative” with Alexis Shepard

Teacher Wars: The History of America’s Most Embattled Profession by Dana Goldstein 

Click here for the free mission statement template

THE BAILEY AND WOOD BURNED-IN TEACHER AWARD

Click here to nominate yourself or someone you know for the Bailey and Wood Burned-In Teacher Award.