No community has been immune to conversations surrounding equity, racism, and inequalities. Panelists share reflections and ideas for school leaders. Go here for a video version via YouTube. As Marlena Gross-Taylor, one of the guests on this week’s podcast episode explains, these conversations have been going on for at least four hundred years. It seems this time, however, communities have reached a tipping point – with vast majorities of Americans expressing outrage, grief, and demanding change. How should school leaders be responding? What conversations, resources, and reflections can help you navigate these important conversations in whatever kind of community you serve – whether that is urban, suburban or rural? This week my guests, William Stubbs, Don Parker, and Marlena-Gross Taylor take time to provide powerful reflections, suggestions, and advice. Listen-in as they explain perspectives from their own personal responses as well as professional guidance. Meet the Panelists: Marlena Gross-Taylor is a dedicated and successful EdLeader with a proven track record of improving educational and operational performance. In addition to education consulting, she serves as the Chief Academic Officer for Douglas County School District in Denver. Originally from southern Louisiana, Marlena’s educational experience spans several states allowing her to have served K-12 students in both rural and urban districts. She has previously served as a Director of Secondary Schools, and has been recognized as a middle school master teacher and innovative administrator at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. She is a proud Louisiana State University alumnus and the founder of Edugladiators.com, that provides education consulting and publishing services across the U.S. William Stubbs is the Middle School Managing Director at UpLift Education in Dallas, Texas. He is a former Instructional Leadership Director, K-12 Principal, Dean of Students and Upper School Literature Teacher. William holds an M.S.A. from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and a B.A. in English from Shaw University. He is also a co-moderator for the Twitter chat #BMEsTalk, each Tuesday night at 8PM Central Standard Time, where educators from across the U.S. share ideas, research, and feedback on ways to encourage positive outcomes. Dr. Don Parker is a highly sought-after speaker and professional development provider. He is the principal of Posen Intermediate School in Posen, Illinois, just outside of Chicago. Previously, he was the principal of Lincoln Avenue School, a K–8 school in Dolton, Illinois, where he improved the culture, implemented a resilience program, managed the implementation of restorative justice, and increased attendance and student achievement.  He is also the author of the new book, Building Bridges: Engaging Students at Risk Through the Power of Relationships with Solution Tree Press.  Question #1: As you observe what is happening right around the world and in your own communities, what have been your thoughts and reflections both personally and professionally? Marlena: