Grow Your Own Programs

How does a school district ensure that students see themselves reflected in the diversity of its educators? Oregon schools have the opportunity to work toward this goal through the Grow Your Own (GYO) initiative, the topic of this week’s episode. Malik chats with Andreina Velasco, the David Douglas GYO Pathway Advisor, who explains that the program encourages BIPOC students to consider the education profession, with many returning to their former schools.

As Andreina points out, “It’s hard to see yourself in a role if you haven’t seen someone in that role who looks like you.” She emphasizes the importance of students interacting with educators who share their identity and understand their culture. 

Resources - 

The Grow Your Own Initiative

More about the Grow Your Own Program at the David Douglas School District 

The BARWE Program (Building Antiracist White Educators), referenced by Andreina as an affinity group for white educators 

Muhammed, Gholdy. Cultivating Genius. Scholastic Teaching Resources, 2020.                         A book recommended by both Malik and Andreina for its four-layered equity framework in K-12 literacy education for students of all ethnicities - As Andreina says, “It’s an injustice that students have to wait until college to learn about their identity.”