Equity and Excellence in Education: Dr. Bonita Jamison’s Approach at MRH Schools


In this episode, we explore MRH’s comprehensive strategic plan, "Honoring our history and shaping our future." We’ll touch on critical issues such as staff retention, made more challenging by the pandemic, and the importance of genuine community engagement that goes beyond simple board meetings. Dr. Jamison will share her reflections on influential books like "Jim Crow's Pink Slip" and "The Anxious Generation," which have shaped her approach to leadership.

Dr. Jamison will also introduce us to MRH’s distinctive "looping" system, aimed at cultivating sustained relationships between students and educators, and the district's move towards competency-based education that values real-world skills over mere test scores. Her leadership involves being a "lead learner," participating in district-wide professional development, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning.

We'll also discuss the financial challenges facing the district, particularly the impact of declining COVID relief funds, and Dr. Jamison's dedication to providing multiple pathways to success for students, ranging from traditional academic routes to career readiness programs and internships.

Key Moments

10:38 Experiences and relationships foster belonging and impact.

12:58 Board prioritizes equity in education decisions.

18:27 Engaging community, showcasing SEL work, board roundtables.

23:22 Local funding crucial; sustaining programs amid challenges.

31:32 Grant to enhance district's competency-based education.

36:57 Mentor vital in career, combating imposter syndrome.

39:02 Emphasize pathways, market assets in education change.

45:05 Reimagining education by prioritizing student-driven learning.

48:44 Opportunity to foster belonging and address turnover.

56:51 Cellphone connects me with distant family.

01:03:29 Explore diverse paths to success, disrupt paradigms.

01:05:39 Honored to speak about dedicated teachers' work.

Connect with Dr.Bonita Jamison


Equity and Excellence in Education: Dr. Bonita Jamison’s Approach at MRH Schools
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