Juneteenth & Shaping a Path for Educational Access

As part of a special panel series highlighting public education in Texas, Leander ISD was invited to share how it is honoring Juneteenth through its ongoing commitment to educational access for each and every student.In this episode, Superintendent Bruce Gearing, Ed.D., and Chief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street are joined by LISD parent Serenity Coats and her daughter Jaya, a proud Leander High School graduate. Together, they reflect on the historic and personal significance of Juneteenth, and how meaningful relationships, representation, and opportunity continue to shape the student experience in Leander ISD.Take a listen as they share stories, insights, and commitments that honor the legacy of Juneteenth while advancing a future where every student belongs and thrives.DeWayne sits down with Serenity Coats and her daughter Jaya about the importance of Juneteenth in the African American community.Introductions (0:00-4:40)Get To Know Serenity and Jaya (4:40-5:56)DeWayne Opening Statements(5:56-8:16)How LISD Continues to Honor Juneteenth (8:16-9:46)Dr. Gearing’s Personal Connection to Educational Access (9:46-11:35)Serenity's Experience With LISD (11:35-19:31)Jaya’s Experience In LISD (19:31-22:26)What Is On The Horizon For LISD (22:26- 25:42)Jaya’s Major (25:42- 26:52)Open Discussion (26:52- 30:44)Outro (30:44-31:55)