Episodic Synopsis

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Sarah Lerner, a Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School teacher and editor of the anthology Parkland Speaks, which captures the voices of students and educators in the aftermath of the Parkland tragedy. Through reflections and stories, Sarah shares the journey of creating this work to help others process trauma and find hope. We discuss the lasting impact of Parkland Speaks, the importance of trauma-informed education, and Sarah's advocacy through Teachers Unified to End Gun Violence. Join us as we explore the profound themes of resilience, advocacy, and the ongoing struggle for change.

Show Notes (Key Points and Ideas)

• Introduction to Parkland Speaks: Sarah Lerner discusses her role as editor of Parkland Speaks, an anthology that captures the raw emotions of students and educators after the Parkland shooting. Link to Parkland Speaks
• Inspiration Behind the Anthology: A look into how and why Sarah created Parkland Speaks with contributors, including students, faculty, and survivors.
• Connection with Other Advocates: Sarah reflects on her friendships with other survivor teachers, including Abby Clements from Sandy Hook and Amy Stevens from Oxford High School, underscoring the shared narratives across different tragedies.
• Unique Contributions: From Stacey Lippel's congressional testimony, Nothing Bad Ever Happens in Parkland (Link) to Emma Gonzales’ "We Call BS" speech, Sarah highlights pivotal works within the anthology.
• Importance of Trauma-Informed Education: Sarah advocates for a trauma-informed approach in schools, emphasizing the need for proper support systems and mental health resources.
• Advocacy Through Teachers Unified to End Gun Violence: Sarah shares the mission behind this organization, co-founded with Abby Clements and Sari Beth Rosenberg, giving teachers a voice in the fight against gun violence.
• Final Reflections on Resilience and Hope: Sarah underscores the need for trauma-informed practices and self-care for educators, as well as the power of advocacy in creating safer learning environments.

Teachers Unify to End Gun Violence

Teachers Unify to End Gun Violence is a grassroots organization co-founded by educators, including Sarah Lerner, Abby Clements, and Sari Beth Rosenberg. This organization aims to amplify teachers' voices in the gun control debate, particularly because educators are frequently the first responders during school shootings. Teachers Unify advocates for meaningful policy changes to prevent gun violence in schools and supports teachers navigating the trauma and challenges that come from experiencing such violence firsthand.

Teachers Unify Podcast

https://teachersunify.transistor.fm/episodes

The Teachers Unify Podcast is a platform that gives educators a space to discuss the impact of gun violence on schools and the mental health and safety of teachers and students. Hosted by Sarah Lerner and other co-founders of Teachers Unify to End Gun Violence, the podcast features conversations on the realities of school shootings, the importance of trauma-informed practices in education, and the ongoing fight for safe learning environments.