Bridging SEL and Equity

Join us for a conversation on Bridging SEL and Equity with panelists Dr. Shree Walker and Terrance “Cirvant” French. In this interactive webinar we will discuss:

• how SEL programs can intentionally support antiracism;
• how to support educators to build equitable learning communities; and
• integrating equity in your organization to support your work with educators and students.

This session will include a panel discussion and Q & A facilitated by Tamara Fyke followed by breakout discussions to share your personal and organizational experiences with bridging SEL and equity as well as takeaways from the panel discussion.

Meet Our Panelists

As a young woman growing up in a poverty-stricken single parent home, Dr. Shree Walker refused to be a victim of circumstance. Being the eldest of six children she has been faced with many obstacles. Dr. Shree Walker is a focused, enthusiastic, highly experienced educator with a proven ability to quickly interpret complex legal situations while finding practical resolutions to support all diverse learners. Without any heroes to look to, she had to become her own. Dr. Walker is determined not to live as a victim or a statistic.

Dr. Shree Walker earned a Bachelor’s degree in History from Fisk University and a Master’s degree in Special Education from Lipscomb University. She then went to earn her Education Specialist’s degree in Administration and Supervision from Tennessee State University, where she also earned her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. Dr. Walker is a co-author of University community partnerships in teacher preparation: Changing attitudes about students with disabilities, author of Resilient Walker, the Director Section 504 and Special Populations for Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools as well an Adjunct Professor of Education at Belmont University.

Born to teen parents in the University Court Housing Projects in Nashville, TN, Terrance “Cirvant” French and his two younger sisters were raised by a single mother until she died of HIV when he was 12yrs old. After the death of his mother, the family was separated. He spent the remainder of his teen years in and out of trouble. When he was around 16, he was introduced to some adults who saw his value. They invested in him and his artistic gifts, making him believe that he could change his situation. From that point, Terrance dedicated himself to paying it forward, using the arts to help kids know their worth.

As a poet/author/speaker/changemaker, Terrance started serving the neighborhood where he grew up, leading a kids’ outreach program on Saturday mornings with his church. During this same time, he also spent over 10 years working with Love In A Big World, reaching over 500,000 youth in 10 states. He expanded his efforts to Africa in 2008, working in Uganda with former child soldiers and eventually settled in South Africa. While there, he established Love In A Big World, Africa and served students throughout Africa and India.  For the past five years, Terrance has worked with Preston Taylor Ministries as the High School & Thrive Director.

Event Recap