Episode description

In this episode, Jim Knight engages in a heartfelt conversation with Jennifer Hlavka, who shares her journey in education and her passion for teaching. Jennifer reflects on her early experiences in school, highlighting the profound impact her high school in Richmond, Virginia, had on her love for education. She recalls how her teachers were deeply invested in their students, fostering an environment where she looked forward to learning every day.

A pivotal moment for Jennifer was reading Jonathan Kozol's "Savage Inequalities" during her college years. This book opened her eyes to the stark disparities in educational experiences based on geography, igniting her desire to pursue a career in public education. She joined Teach for America and taught in Baltimore City, eventually transitioning into teacher development, where she now supports educators in achieving their career goals.

Jennifer expresses her excitement about her upcoming presentations at the Teaching Learning Coaching (TLC) conference. She will lead a pre-conference session on "Better Conversations," emphasizing the importance of effective communication in both personal and professional relationships. She believes that improving conversations can significantly enhance the quality of life and work.

At the conference, Jennifer will also conduct a series of sessions focused on coaching for positive classrooms, engagement, and achievement. She hopes to create a collaborative environment where educators can share strategies and insights, ultimately keeping students at the forefront of their efforts.
Throughout the discussion, Jennifer's enthusiasm for education and her commitment to fostering meaningful connections shine through. She emphasizes that the quality of conversations in schools directly influences student experiences and outcomes, reinforcing her belief that educators must prioritize student voices in their practices.

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