Get On Code Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Speaker: Dr. Sean Woodley, educator, and author
• Focus: Education, empowerment, and culturally diverse classrooms
• Setting: "Get On Code" series, focused on empowerment, health, wealth, and self-knowledge
• Emphasis on building wealth within melanated communities

Background

• Dr. Woodley: Architect behind "Teach Hustle Inspire"
  • Teach: Unlocking intellectual treasure in students
  • Hustle: Continuing to learn (90's hip-hop inspired)
  • Inspire: Spreading love and light
• Works with underserved, undervalued, and under-loved schools/districts

Key Discussion Points

Impact of Environment on Education

• Disparities based on zip code and economic status
• Political narratives around raising standards
• Real issue: Whose standards are being raised?

Addressing the Achievement Gap

• Achievement gap vs. Instructional gap
• Importance of differentiating instruction
• Need for understanding students' cultural and social context
• Educators tend to teach the "average" student, who does not exist

Importance of Relationships

• Teaching is relational, not just tactical
• Connection and respect between teacher and student are crucial for learning
• Lack of connection leads to lack of motivation and efficacy

Urban Schools

• Need for mindset shifts in educational approaches
• Authority vs. leadership dynamics in classrooms
• Creating environments that are warm and friendly but also challenging
• Real-world application through culturally responsive teaching and project-based learning

Dr. Woodley's Book: "MC Means Move the Class"

• A play on words from Eric B and Rakim's "Move the Crowd"
• Focus on sparking engagement and motivation in urban and culturally diverse classrooms
• Four main areas:
  • Achievement: Culturally relevant instruction
  • Alliance: Connection and relationship building
  • Awareness: Self-awareness and student relations
  • Artistry: Bringing authentic self into teaching

Changes Needed in Education

• Relationships first: Effective teaching requires strong relationships
• Systemic changes beyond raising standards
• Introduction of new teaching methods like culturally responsive teaching and project-based learning

Involving the Community

• Importance of parental and community involvement in schools
• Challenges for communities of color in engaging with school systems
• Need for systemic changes to build trust and collaboration

Personal Reflections and Future Directions

• Woodley’s passion project: Creating a movement with "Teach Hustle Inspire"
• Intentional generational change: Breaking old cycles and traditional methods
• Continuous learning as a core principle (Never stop learning)
• How connections and relationships shape personal and professional growth

Advice for Educators and Community Members

• Importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences
• The role of self-care in being a better educator
• Encouragement to take active roles in supporting and teaching students

Final Thoughts

• Necessity of pouring into oneself to better serve others
• Empowered educators can create empowered students
• Connection and engagement go beyond the classroom

Actions & Resources

• Visit Dr. Woodley's website: TeachHustleInspire.com
• Check out his book "MC Means Move the Class"
• Engage with him on social media for updates and motivational content