Creating Belonging in Math Class for Black and Brown Students - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 52

Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Creating Belonging in Math Class for Black and Brown StudentsSeason 6, Episode 52 Host: Rochelle Peterson-AnsariOverview: In this inspiring episode, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari speaks with math specialist and author Shameeka Browne about reclaiming the joy and humanity within mathematics education. Browne challenges the traditional "survive or assimilate" model of schooling, advocating instead for a "thrive" model where students bring their full cultural identities and lived experiences into the classroom. By sharing practical strategies—from connecting inequalities to social justice to empowering parents with mathematical frameworks—Browne demonstrates how educators can dismantle math phobia and help every student see themselves as a capable mathematician.Topics discussed:Culturally Responsive Mathematics: How educators can use students' cultural backgrounds and lived experiences to make math content meaningful rather than just a process of regurgitation.Dismantling Math Phobia: Practical techniques for addressing students who shut down when they encounter incorrect answers, including shifting the focus from being "right" to thinking critically.The Restorative Justice Window: Understanding how educator biases manifest in punitive, passive, or "for" behaviors, and how to move toward a "with it" approach that equips students with tools to thrive.Math in the Real World: Connecting classroom concepts like percentages and inequalities to real-world issues like child labor laws, civil rights, and social justice projects.Empowering Families: Providing parents with frameworks and "kid-friendly" mathematical practices to support their children’s learning at home, regardless of curriculum changes.Guest:Shameeka Browne, MSEd Math Specialist, Founder of Math is All Around Us LLC, and author of Queen of 24.Instagram: @MathisallaroundusLLCFacebook: Math is All Around UsWebsite: www.mathisallaroundus.orgCheck out more content and ways to connect with us:➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/➡️ Email: [email protected] ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.comPlease feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!