S5E4: How Administrators Make a Difference with John Staley & Denise Thornton

In this episode, John Staley and Denise Thornton share how administrators can create antiracist mathematics spaces by prioritizing relationships and showing up for students. John reflects on his early teaching at a juvenile correctional facility, where he learned that it's not about the math topics but about the students you teach. Denise shares how her student Natalia shaped her understanding of barriers students face and the power of believing in their potential.

Together, they discuss practical ways educators can connect with students outside the classroom, from attending soccer games to shopping at local grocery stores, and why these small moments matter for building trust and dismantling math trauma. They also explore how administrators can support authentic family engagement and examine the beliefs that shape student experiences.

Resources Mentioned

• Launch Years Initiative 
• Launch Years Math Organizations Leadership Network 
• Dana Center Transition-Year Resources

The Season 4, Episode 4 transcript.