Marcela Andrés serves as President and CEO of designEDengagement, PBC, a Latina-owned education consulting firm based in Texas on a mission to reimagine how educators, families, and community members partner to support the hopes and dreams of students. Previously, Marcela was a program director for a non-profit whose mission was to advocate for public education. She was also a third- and fourth-grade teacher at a bilingual elementary school.

She is the author of Purposeful Educator Connections: Five Principles to Strengthen Relationships with Students. In the book, Marcela offers critical principles to deepen relationships with students, understand the importance of context beyond compliance, foster meaningful interactions, design high-quality learning environments, and partner with key stakeholders. Purposeful Educator Connections provides high-leverage practices, case studies, and reflection questions to help educators apply these principles to their practice, ultimately improving classroom culture and student outcomes.

Takeaways:

• The discussion posits that zip codes should not determine an individual's destiny, emphasizing the importance of equity in educational opportunities.
• We assert that education is a non-linear journey, where each experience contributes uniquely to personal growth and career development.
• The podcast highlights the significance of educators in recognizing potential in students, often before they themselves are aware of it.
• We explore the crucial role of family and community engagement in the educational process, emphasizing that learning occurs beyond traditional classroom settings.
• The conversation underscores the necessity of self-care for educators, as their wellbeing directly influences their capacity to support students effectively.
• Lastly, we reflect on the transformative power of relationships in education, asserting that true learning flourishes in environments where individuals feel valued and seen.

Website

https://www.designedengagement.com/

Social Media Information

IG: https://www.instagram.com/molcajete_talk/

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelaandres/

Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)

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Dr. Jewel Williams, a Doctor of Health Science, Nationally Registered EMT, and Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®), is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Bridgeport. With over 20 years as an educator and former principal, she is passionate about empowering educators to prioritise their well-being.

Dr. Williams integrates neuroscience with the eight dimensions of wellness—physical, emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual, occupational, environmental, and financial—to help educators create sustainable wellness practices. Through workshops and her private wellness community, she provides strategies that connect brain health to holistic well-being, enabling educators to thrive both personally and professionally.

Takeaways:

• As educators, it is imperative to acknowledge and adapt to the cultural dynamics of the environment in which we teach.
• The manner in which we communicate significantly influences our overall well-being and mental health.
• Implementing a brief daily practice of mindfulness and breathing can substantially enhance one's emotional resilience and clarity.
• Teachers must recognise their own wellness needs in order to effectively support their students' learning experiences.
• Pursuing one's authentic aspirations, irrespective of external validation, is essential for personal fulfilment and professional growth.
• The holistic approach to wellness encompasses emotional, physical, and mental health, which are interdependent in fostering a thriving educational environment.

Connect with Dr. Williams at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jewelwhitewmsdhsc/

https://www.youtube.com/@jewelwhitewilliams

Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)

https://nape.org.uk/

Discover more about Education on Fire

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https://educationonfire.com/support

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https://educationonfire.com/captivate

🔥 Descript – My...

Beyond its essential educational initiatives, The Be The Ladder Foundation also recognises those who make a difference through the Be The Ladder Awards. These prestigious awards shine a spotlight on individuals and organisations that embody the ethos of ‘being a ladder’ – helping others overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

Every year, the awards celebrate 30 exceptional individuals or groups, known as The Ladder List, across ten categories. From these nominees, one deserving recipient in each category is honoured with the coveted Golden Ladder Award during a special awards ceremony. This recognition is not just about celebration; it’s about inspiring a movement of kindness and mentorship, encouraging others to step up and be the ladder for someone else.

The Be The Ladder Foundation provides vital support to young people who may not meet their potential due to their socio-economic status and require essential resources to reach their full potential. The foundation bridges the gap by offering school uniforms, educational equipment, tuition support, and funding for enriching experiences that build confidence and self-esteem.

Dr. Trevor D. Sterling (Hon.causa), Senior Partner at Moore Barlow, is the Founder of the Be The Ladder Foundation.

His unwavering commitment to social mobility and education drives our firm’s dedication to this cause. Through his leadership and vision, we are not only supporters but active participants in changing lives for the better.

Takeaways:

• The mantra of 'don't just aspire to climb the ladder, Be The Ladder' serves as a profound reminder that we should actively support others in their journeys to success.
• The Be the Ladder foundation is dedicated to providing opportunities for individuals from under-resourced backgrounds to fulfil their potential, thereby enhancing social mobility.
• Believing in oneself is crucial; a sense of purpose and motivation can significantly influence educational and societal outcomes for individuals.
• Trevor Sterling's journey exemplifies that extraordinary achievements can stem from ordinary backgrounds, demonstrating the power of self-belief and resilience in overcoming socioeconomic barriers.
• The foundation aims to bridge the attainment gap by offering support such as private tuition and workshops, ensuring that all individuals have access to necessary resources for success.
• Celebrating those who have 'been the ladder' helps to inspire future generations, creating a ripple effect of motivation and empowerment throughout society.

Website

https://www.betheladderawards.com

https://www.betheladderawards.com/our-mission

Show Sponsor – National Association for Primary Education (NAPE)

https://nape.org.uk/

Discover more about Education on Fire

🔥 https://www.educationonfire.com/

🔥 Support the show with a One-Off Tip