Leona Andres: A Trailblazing Advocate for Education and Inclusion

Introduction

Leona Andres was a visionary educator and tireless advocate for equity and inclusion in education. Her unwavering commitment to empowering students and creating a welcoming learning environment for all has left an enduring legacy in the field of education.

Early Life and Education

Leona Andres was born in 1933 in Dallas, Texas. She faced significant challenges as she grew up in a low-income family and attended schools that were underfunded and segregated. Nonetheless, she excelled in her studies and became the first member of her family to attend college. She graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1955 with a bachelor's degree in education.

Teaching Career

After graduating from college, Andres embarked on a teaching career that spanned over four decades. She taught in various schools, including the predominantly African American Booker T. Washington High School in Dallas. She believed that all students deserved an equitable opportunity to succeed, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic status.

Advocacy for Inclusion

Andres became actively involved in advocating for inclusion and equity in education. She co-founded the Dallas Alliance for Education in 1976, an organization that promoted quality education for all children. She also served on numerous boards and committees that worked to improve educational outcomes for marginalized students.

Leadership in Educational Organizations

Andres held leadership positions in several prominent educational organizations. She served as president of the Texas Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (TASCD) and as a board member of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). In these roles, she influenced educational policy and promoted best practices for inclusive education.

Awards and Recognition

Andres received numerous awards and recognitions for her outstanding contributions to education. These include the Texas Educator of the Year Award in 1985, the National Association of Secondary School Principals Outstanding School Administrator Award in 1988, and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Distinguished Service Award in 1993.

Legacy and Impact

Leona Andres's legacy extends far beyond her own classrooms and schools. Her unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion in education has inspired countless educators and policymakers to strive for a more just and equitable educational system. Her work has helped to create a more inclusive society where all students have an equal opportunity to succeed.

Quotes

"Education is the great equalizer. It has the power to transform lives and break down barriers." - Leona Andres

"We must never give up on our children. They deserve our best efforts to ensure that they have the opportunity to reach their full potential." - Leona Andres

Statistics

• According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the percentage of students of color in public schools has increased significantly in recent decades. In 2020, students of color made up 53% of all public school students.
• The Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights found that in 2017-2018, Black students accounted for 36% of all suspensions and 42% of all expulsions, despite making up only 15% of public school enrollment.
• The Pew Research Center reported that in 2019, 44% of teachers in the United States identified as non-white, compared to 31% of students.

Tables

| Table 1: Percentage of Students of Color in Public Schools |
|---|---|
| Year | Percentage |
| ----------- | ----------- |
| 1980 | 31% |
| 1990 | 39% |
| 2000 | 44% |
| 2010 | 49% |
| 2020 | 53% |

| Table 2: Percentage of Students of Color Suspended or Expelled |
|---|---|
| Race/Ethnicity | Suspension Rate | Expulsion Rate |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- |
| White | 21% | 10% |
| Black | 36% | 42% |
| Hispanic | 28% | 25% |
| Asian | 18% | 11% |
| Native American | 33% | 29% |

| Table 3: Percentage of Non-White Teachers in the United States |
|---|---|
| Year | Percentage |
| ----------- | ----------- |
| 1980 | 18% |
| 1990 | 23% |
| 2000 | 29% |
| 2010 | 37% |
| 2019 | 44% |

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

Leona Andres once encountered a student who was constantly disruptive in class. Instead of punishing the student, she took the time to learn about the student's home life and discovered that the student was struggling with poverty and food insecurity. Andres arranged for the student to receive food assistance and worked with the student's family to find a more stable living environment. As a result, the student's behavior improved significantly, demonstrating that addressing the underlying issues affecting students can lead to positive outcomes.

Lesson Learned:

Educators must recognize that students may face challenges outside of the classroom that can impact their behavior and performance. By understanding and addressing these challenges, educators can create a more supportive learning environment and help students succeed.

Story 2:

Andres implemented a peer tutoring program at her school where students from different backgrounds worked together to support each other's learning. The program not only improved academic outcomes but also fostered a sense of community and understanding among students. Andres believed that by creating opportunities for students to interact and learn from each other, she was promoting inclusion and breaking down barriers.

Lesson Learned:

Peer tutoring and other collaborative learning strategies can promote social and academic growth by allowing students to interact and support each other's learning.

Story 3:

Andres faced opposition from some parents and community members who were resistant to the idea of inclusion and equity in education. She remained undeterred and worked tirelessly to educate and engage the community. She organized public forums and invited experts to speak about the benefits of inclusive education. Through her persistence and diplomacy, Andres was able to build support for her vision and create a more welcoming learning environment for all students.

Lesson Learned:

Advocating for change can be challenging, but it is crucial to remain persistent and engage with the community to build support and understanding.

Tips and Tricks

• Create a welcoming classroom environment. Greet students at the door, use positive language, and establish clear expectations for behavior and respect.
• Get to know your students. Learn about their backgrounds, interests, and challenges. This will help you tailor your instruction to meet their individual needs.
• Foster collaboration. Encourage students to work together and support each other's learning. This can help to break down barriers and promote a sense of community.
• Address challenges head-on. If students are facing difficulties, don't ignore them. Talk to them, learn about what's going on, and work with them to find solutions.
• Collaborate with colleagues. Share ideas and resources with other educators. Working together can enhance your ability to provide effective instruction and support for all students.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming that all students are the same. Every student is unique and has different needs. Avoid making assumptions about students based on their background or appearance.
• Ignoring the impact of implicit bias. Implicit bias can influence our perceptions and decisions without us even realizing it. Be aware of your own biases and challenge them when necessary.
• Tolerating bullying and discrimination. Create a safe and inclusive environment where all students feel respected and valued. Address any instances of bullying or discrimination promptly and effectively.
• Failing to listen to students. Students have valuable insights to share about their own experiences and needs. Make sure to listen to their perspectives and consider their suggestions.

How to Step-by-Step Approach

Step 1: Get to know your students.

• Build relationships with your students by getting to know them as individuals.
• Learn about their interests, strengths, and challenges.
• Create a welcoming and supportive classroom environment where students feel safe and respected.

Step 2: Create a challenging and inclusive curriculum.

• Design lessons that are relevant and engaging for all students.
• Incorporate diverse perspectives and experiences into your instruction.
• Provide opportunities for students to collaborate and support each other's learning.

Step 3: Address challenges head-on.

• Don't ignore challenges that students are facing.
• Talk to students about their difficulties and work with them to find solutions.
• Consult with colleagues, parents, and other professionals as needed to provide support for students.

Step 4: Foster a positive and supportive school culture.

• Create a school-wide culture that values diversity and inclusion.
• Encourage students, staff, and parents to work together to create a welcoming and supportive learning environment.
• Implement policies and practices that promote equity and inclusion for all students.

Conclusion

Leona Andres was a visionary leader who dedicated her life to creating a more just and equitable educational system for all students. Her legacy continues to inspire educators and policymakers to strive for a world where every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. By embracing inclusion, breaking down barriers, and empowering students, we can build a society where all children have the opportunity to succeed.