SDCOE Team Launches Equity-Focused Podcast

Sit back, relax, get ready to listen to engaging, topical conversations about educational equity and educators’ role in addressing inequities. 

"EquiChats: Amplifying Voices for Educational Equity," is a podcast focused on educational equity and hosted by Deborah Hernandez, director, continuous improvement, and Valentin Escanuela, executive leadership coach, at the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE).

Join the duo as they explore systemic equity challenges and discuss innovative approaches to bring about change. In each episode, they will explore complexities of achieving equity in education, addressing topics such as how to measure impact, using asset-based mindsets, and pursuing a student's sense of belonging. They will engage with experts, educators, and those who dedicate their lives to breaking down barriers and creating a more equitable system for all. 

The first and second episodes are now available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Episode one introduces the hosts and their backgrounds, and second episode features Julie Goldman, director, equity curriculum and instruction, SDCOE, and her work on instructional design for equity.

“Issues of equity have always been intertwined with education but today, it seems more important than ever to have meaningful conversations and hear voices from practitioners,” said Hernandez. “Our goal is to have listener-suggested topics and guests so we can make it relevant and engaging.”

Throughout each episode they will unravel the multifaceted nature of achieving equity in education. Topics will span the spectrum from measuring impact and fostering asset-based mindsets to nurturing a student's sense of belonging. 

“Expect to hear from an array of guests, including experts, educators, and passionate advocates,” added Escanuela. “We will be talking to people driven by the shared mission of dismantling barriers and fostering a more equitable educational system for all.”

The first season will focus on leveraging the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) tool from the SDCOE Equity Blueprint for Action in a meaningful way. Episodes will be added monthly. If you have a suggestion for a topic or guest, email EquiChats@sdcoe.net and be an integral part of the conversation.