Change the Narrative

Dismantling Racism Starts with You School leaders, in partnership with educators, students, parents, and the community, have remarkable potential to change the narrative so that all students, regardless of race, can feel seen, empowered, and engaged in their learning communities. Through the lens and actions of antiracism, Change the Narrative provides a pathway for school administrators, leaders, and change agents who want to put into action the values of antiracism in their school community every day. Henry J. Turner and Kathy Lopes, a high school principal and a director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Newton Public Schools in Massachusetts, weave their professional experiences and their personal stories to connect the reader to the importance of the consistent routines, ongoing learning, and structural changes that will help foster an antiracist school culture. Full of practical and effective strategies, this book is for those who have been fighting for equity their entire career as well as those who are just beginning on their journey. It will push you to expand your mindset in new ways and serve as a reference you can return to as often as you need. Endorsements "Turner and Lopes present a breath of fresh air in the form of a much-needed resource to guide schools in a positive direction. Jam-packed with practical strategies, any leader regardless of their experiences will benefit from this resource." -Eric Sheninger, best-selling author and keynote speaker "Turner and Lopes strike a balance of coaching and patience, reflection and risk-taking, moral imperative and concrete strategies. There is no doubt that this text, brilliantly researched and woven with their personal stories, will help readers reimagine their schools and evolve their practice."-Katie Novak, author of UDL Now and Equity by Design "Change the Narrative will arm you with tools to understand the need to actively support all our students. A must-read for any educator preparing to confront structural barriers with awareness, empathy, and cultural competency."-Hedreich Nichols von Reichert, author, educator, and founder of SmallBites