Critically Conscious Classroom

The Critically Conscious Classroom returns with Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson fresh off the 2026 ACSA Equity Institute and a powerful conversation with Dr. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz. They reflect on the importance of creating spaces for truth, healing, and community in education (02:10), and what it means for educators to confront bias, identity, and the systems shaping our schools (14:25). The conversation closes with a call for educators to engage in deep self-reflection and lead with purpose in this moment (41:50).

The Critically Conscious Classroom is back with Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson after a short hiatus with a new look and renewed energy. In this episode, they welcome UC Berkeley professor Dr. Travis Bristol to discuss teacher retention and why recruitment alone won’t solve the challenges facing the profession (03:15). The conversation also explores the “invisible tax” placed on educators of color and how those experiences shape teachers’ decisions to stay in schools or leave (19:40), before closing with a powerful discussion about why educators must lead and teach like our democracy depends on it (47:10).

On this episode of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega discuss the importance of equity allies. Representatives from ACSA’s affinity groups including CAAASA, CAAPLE & CALSA talk about the development and goals of the California Administrator Equity Alliance to uplift students.

The Critically Conscious Classroom returns as hosts Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson how the Association of Raza Educators Los Angeles has been supporting students and families in the midst of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in the city.

On episode 11 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Dr. Tracie Noriega & Anthony Robinson discuss the wide-reaching implications of Mahmoud v. Taylor, the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on religious exemptions from certain classroom materials. What does this ruling mean for practices and for student identity?

On episode 10 of the Critically Conscious Classrom, Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega will talk with professors in the field all about ethnic studies. They'll discuss how the subject saved Tracie's life and why it is sometimes considered controversial.

On episode 9 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson sit down with Nicole Anderson, Founder and CEO of Nicole Anderson and Associates Consulting. Together, they’ll explore how educators and changemakers can challenge the status quo and lead with justice, integrity, and inclusion.Nicole brings decades of experience in equity leadership, training, and systemwide transformation."We cannot close the educational gaps we see in our schools if we don’t close the one in our minds first." — Nicole Anderson

On episode 8 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson welcome Dr. Daryl Camp, superintendent of San Lorenzo USD and incoming ACSA board president to the show. They explore what it means to “lead loudly” and model courageous leadership in politically charged times.

On episode 7 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega mark the start of Pride Month with Dr. Julie Vitale, superintendent of Oceanside Unified School District. They'll discuss Julie's experience leading a school district as an openly gay superintendent and how educators can support the LGBTQ+ community.

On episode 6 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, we're joined by our very own Dr. Edgar Zazueta, ACSA's executive director. Hosts Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega discuss how ACSA is supporting DEI educators, advocating for inclusive policies and standing firm in our commitment to every student’s right to thrive.

What does it mean to write a love letter to educators in a time when public education is under fire? In episode 5 of the Critically Conscious Classroom, Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson explore what love looks like as an act of resistance, affirmation and deep care in the face of socio-political tension. Our guests will reflect on the concept of “battle recognizance” and how to stay grounded in justice amid attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion.

In episode 4, our hosts Anthony Robinson and Dr. Tracie Noriega chat with guest Dr. Cherina Betters of San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools. They'll discuss the challenges involved in doing DEI work and showing up for students with an approach of courage, consistency and care.

Episode 3 of The Critically Conscious Classroom withhosts Dr. Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson, featuring an insightful conversation with special guest Tovi Scruggs Hussein. Together, they’ll unpack what it means to lead with awareness, compassion, and purpose in an ever-evolving educational landscape.This episode dives into the power of self-reflection, connection, and courageous dialogue – tools every educational leader can use to foster real belonging across their schools and systems.

The Critically Conscious Classroom unpacks power, privilege, and resistance through bold storytelling and critical reflection. Hosted by Tracie Noriega and Anthony Robinson, each episode features thought leaders who challenge systemic inequities and explore transformative paths toward justice.In this episode, special guest Joaquin Noguera joins the conversation to share real solutions for building schools rooted in integrity, inclusivity, and equity. Change isn’t passive – be part of the movement! 

The first episode of the "Critically Conscious Classroom" introduces the concept of a critically conscious classroom and its importance. Hosts Dr. Tracy Noriega & Anthony Robinson, along with special guest Deputy Executive Director Margie Cuizon Armelino, discuss the show's purpose and the history of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work at ACSA.