Breanna Wilson: Keep Your Revolutionary Optimism

Breanna's path into teaching didn't look like the brochure. A teacher's-kid childhood, a false start at a "best in the nation" education program, family obligations that pulled her home to Denver, nearly a decade as a full-time para while she was also a full-time student — and finally, in her late twenties, a kindergarten classroom of her own at the school she never left. In this conversation with Jody, Esther, and Allison, she unpacks what that road taught her: that identity work is the actual foundation of equitable teaching, and that "we do what's best for kids" is a mission statement until you live it on the hard days. Stay for the walk-up song — it should probably be a morning circle chant. And if you've ever felt like the only way to grow in this profession is to leave the classroom, this one will change how you see your own influence. Teacher leadership, it turns out, has nothing to do with a title and everything to do with refusing to stay silent. Guest: Breanna Wilson A Denver native raised in a family of educators, Breanna Wilson was inspired from an early age to follow in their footsteps and dedicate her career to the classroom. Today, Breanna is a passionate early childhood educator committed to equity, cultural and identity sustaining practices, and developmentally appropriate strategies for diverse young learners. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her partner, Shaun, and their cat, dog, and snake. When Breanna is not with her favorite little people, you can find her lost in a good book or diving into the latest in nerd culture. For books, resources, and events, visit: https://www.theteacherleader.org/ Thank you to our sponsor(s): Math and Movement: https://mathandmovement.com/