Voices of Change with Dr. Patrick Jean-Pierre: The Power of Inclusion

In this episode of Defining Us…Stacey DeWitt interviews Dr. Patrick Jean-Pierre. Patrick is the Principal of Paige Elementary in the Schenectady City School District. Dr. Jean-Pierre has years of combined experience in urban educational settings, which includes public schools, charter schools and universities. His range of professional experiences in the field of education includes teaching, counseling, and leadership development, as well as organizational consulting that fosters systemic change. 

Powerful Moments 

Throughout this podcast there are powerful moments that provide deeper insight into the individuals and topics discussed in this podcast.   

• 1:18 – Patrick’s background and how he came into the position he is in now 
• 3:27 – “I didn’t want to go work anywhere that wouldn’t talk about race.” 
• 4:25 – Noticing disparities in his neighborhood at a young age 
• 5:48 – The importance of looking at diversity, equity, and inclusion in everything you do
• 10:06 – Ignoring an entire population of people and setting the wrong expectations
• 13:00 – Making changes is the only way to allow everyone to live to their full potential
• 14:32 – Shifting your mindset
• 23:06 – The importance of being a black principal
• 24:19 – Patrick’s reactions to Defining US
• 27:55 – “It’s really about a kind of inclusion and diversity that is broad and wide.”
• 31:15 – “Innovation is really about diversity 

Critical Reflection Questions (During and After the Listening) 

Use the following critical reflection questions to make deeper meaning of the topics discussed in this episode. 

• How do my own identity, experiences and knowledge influence my understanding of this topic?  
• How does this topic connect with my current context?
• What are the implications to my practice?
• How can I support students in taking on and solving big important problems?
• How will I continue the conversation in my school/community/organization? 

Inside the Conversation  

Want to know more? Continue the learning with some of the important individuals, organizations, and topics discussed in this episode. 

• Dr. Patrick Jean-Pierre on Defining Us 

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