Grow Your Own Teachers? A BustED: Pencils Podcast:

Julian Vasquez Heilig and Laura Dinehart join Dr. Tim to discuss how Western Michigan University is ‘Growing Their Own’ teachers, without test tubes or science from the future! No, their “Gro-ing” their teachers by offering an opportunity to learn, work, and get PAID all in one place.  BustED Pencils LIVE – Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024 https://t.co/4LY9xTA0xj— BustED Pencils (@bustedpencils) April…

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Aquatica: The Great Lakes Underwater School – A New Approach to Deeper Learning in a Charter School

In the heart of Michigan, nestled within the vast, freshwater seas that are the Great Lakes, I’m excited that my revolutionary idea for a new charter school is taking shape. Aquatica: The Great Lakes Underwater School, is a new charter school set to launch in the fall of 2024. The school is not just a new chapter in my life and an educational innovation; it’s a bold reimagination of what a deeper…

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The Unbelievably Humbling Journey to a 'Blue Biography' in Educational Thinkers

The upcoming Palgrave Handbook of Educational Thinkers evokes a deep sense of connection with the lineage of educators and thinkers who have sculpted the contours of educational discourse and practice from antiquity onward. The roster of thinkers, whose work spans the spectrum of educational thought and action, represents a mosaic of visions and voices that have collectively pushed the boundaries…

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Reflecting on a Momentous Day: Testimony to Congress on School Choice

Today’s experience—testifying before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce about charter schools—represents a full-circle moment and, more importantly, in the ongoing dialogue about the future of education in America. This was an opportunity not just to present data or argue for specific policies but to engage deeply with the critical issues at the heart of our education system. The…

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A Crucial Conversation on Education: Tune into Upcoming Congressional Testimony

As the landscape of education continues to evolve, the conversation around education remains at the forefront of policy and public debate. It’s a topic that touches on the core of our values about education, equity, and the right of every child to a quality education. On Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at 10:15 a.m. EST, I will have the honor of contributing to this vital conversation based on my…

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Equity in Action: High-Stakes Testing and Accountability townhall on Tuesday 3/5/24

Allen Weeks sent this along: Austin Voices, as part of a week of “Equity in Action” themed events, is hosting an amazing virtual panel on March 5th from noon to 1:30 pm to discuss where we are going with high-stakes testing and accountability, both in Texas and nationwide. After almost 30 years of investment in the current accountability framework, many are questioning the results while…

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Have you been here?: Navigating Uncharted Life Waters

Have you been here? On the journey of the river of life, I find myself at a pivotal moment that’s both strange and intriguing. The call for retrospectives on my work and contributions has become a recurring theme, a notion that stirs a mix of emotions within me. Despite not having crossed the half-century mark, it feels as though I’m being prompted to pause and look back on the path I’ve…

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Embracing the Legacy: A Keynote on Progress, Diversity, and Courage for Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2023

Remarks for Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2023 Good afternoon, distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and cherished members of our Western Michigan University community. Today, as we stand together to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I found myself contemplating not just the words I would share but the message on my t-shirt. My wardrobe is a collection of narratives, each piece a…

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Closing Latinx Heritage Month with Inspiration and Family History 🌟🇲🇽🇺🇸

🎉 As Latinx Heritage Month 2023 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of resilience and determination that defines our heritage. 🌟 🎬 I just had the privilege of watching #AMillionMilesAway, and it’s an absolute must-see! Jose Hernandez’s story is a testament to the power of dreams and the unwavering spirit that drives us to achieve the impossible. I give…

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How it's going at Western Michigan

As autumn paints campus with warm hues, I’m filled with anticipation for what lies ahead. In my ten months at WMU, I’ve witnessed an inspiring level of passion and dedication, leaving me hopeful for the year to come.Commitment to excellence and ongoing recognition of outstanding faculty and staff From the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, I want to emphasize our…

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Florida's New College Entrance Exam: A Trojan Horse for Ideological Indoctrination?

The education community is buzzing about Florida’s new college entrance exam, a significant departure from traditional standardized tests like the SAT and ACT. But what many may not realize is the loaded political and ideological baggage that accompanies this shift to a “classical” exam. I weighed in this week the burgeoning issue based on my scholarship in curriculum and testing policy on NBC…

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ASA Panel: Attacks on Public Education and Strategies of Resistance

With my colleagues after the panel Grateful for opportunity to share insights on defending public education and fostering action at the #ASA2023 panel. Thanks to professors John Diamond & Noliwe Rooks for a thought-provoking discussion. Reflecting on state of Education today, it’s vital to lead and continue scholarship. #education #highered #highereducation #leadership #educationinsights See my…

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Vorcreatex: An Open Letter to John Harris about Public Education

I appreciate you providing this in-depth, critical critique of how elite capture has affected public education. This compilation’s thorough research and analysis put light on a troubling issue that is not only unique to Indianapolis but also resonates with a larger national movement. It is crucial for citizens, parents, educators, and legislators to comprehend what is taking place behind the…

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First all Vegan In-and-Out Burger

I am thrilled to announce that I have decided to open the nation’s first all-vegan in-and-out burger joint right here in Kalamazoo! This has been a dream of mine for years, and I am so excited to finally make this investment idea a reality. As a vegan myself, I know how difficult it can be to find fast food options that fit with our dietary restrictions and ethical beliefs. That’s why I am…

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Meaningful Change Can Happen Quickly!

Meaningful Change Can Happen Quickly!

If you are afraid to fail, you won’t succeed. Honored to work with my colleagues @UKCollegeofEd 🚀💙🔝#results #InnovationZone #educationalleadership #educationinsights #education Here are the results from our first three years of work at the University of Kentucky College of Education. Some say meaningful change cannot happen quickly, but I believe our faculty, students and alumni are showing…

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Julian Vasquez Heilig hired as Teach For America Vice President

CloakingInequity.com has been sold: Julian Vasquez Heilig hired as New Teach For America Vice President

Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig will join the national staff of Teach For America as of April 1, 2015. He will serve as Teach For America’s Vice President of Umbilicus Monitoring and Evaluation. I just want to feel young and inexperienced again, Teach For America can help me do that for about two years. You cat to be kitten me right now. Love, Julian For all of Cloaking Inequity’s post on Teach For…

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Latest Paper Focuses on School Finance Policy and Civil Rights

Latest Paper Focuses on School Finance Policy and Civil Rights

By Amanda Nelson  LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 8, 2022) — A newly published analysis of how dollars are distributed to schools in the U.S. posits that funding allocation models continue to disadvantage those in low-income communities, despite long-standing evidence that equitable funding is critical to students’ capacity to learn and achieve.  An Opportunity to Learn: Engaging in the Praxis of School…

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