Page 76 - BigConversationsDismantlingRacism

12. Good discussion. I feel encouraged that some problems in CCPS are being addressed or that
there are plans to address the problems
13. I appreciate the panel members recognizing that the conversations we need to have to make
changes will make us uncomfortable, but the uncomfort is necessary. The comment that we
are sacrificing children when we do nothing or not enough was timely and profound.

Group 271B

1. Prepared, professional, passionate. Powerful hearing from the students.

2. Students amazing- Adults “canned bureaucratic response” and some genuine concern.

3. The concepts and ideas were good. I think the reality is some teachers don’t have or take
control of their classrooms. Some point a kid in a direction and tell them to have at it, as
opposed to doing their job and instruct. Kids k-12 are not college students who are expected
to do so much on their own.

4. We have work to do. That seems obvious to all.

5. I was struck by the comment about expectations not conscious bias impacts.

6. The comments from the students were extremely valuable to me because they shared
actual experiences from being in the trenches each day. Some of the adult panelists spoke
more about what should be happening based on existing policies. The students discussed
what is happening.

7. The panels presentation was very interesting. It seems like what the administration and the
Board of Education has put in place has not gotten to the classroom ( as the two students
described).

8. There is a real need for more staff diversity. As Ms. Cousins said, there needs to be more
uncomfortable discussions about racial bias.

9. I thought their observation was on point. As a mother of 5 with one son, I have seen and
heard some of the most concerning situations. I am glad that we are talking about them more
openly today because that is a step in the right direction.

Group 272A

1. The adults gave statistics and platitudes without answers. The students gave real
perspective and their experiences which were most informative.
2. I was hoping for more candid responses from all of the panelists. I believe progress is
being made but we have a way to go.
3. All spoke knowledgeably, the students were eloquent and the moderator did a good job.
4. A very good conversation. The best and most informative responses came from the two
young men. It was good to hear from the adults on what and why things should happen,
but it was better to hear the real-life view from the students.
5. Guest speakers seemed passionate and sincere. I would like to hear more from the
students. Should we have a white teacher up there stating what she is doing to connect

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