Empowered Educational Conversations with Elin and Christina

In this episode, Elin and Christina talk with Kenneth Ronquillo, a high school counselor at an international school in Mexico and soon-to-be Japan! Known as @TheGaySchoolCounselor on social media, he's sharing his career journey from San Jose, CA, and Las Vegas, NV, to the global stage. With a background in Secondary Education, School Counseling, and Gender, Race, & Identity Studies, Kenneth brings a unique perspective to education and advocacy. Follow his inspiring story as he navigates diverse cultures and promotes inclusivity.

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Join Dr. Elin P. Cervantes in this episode as she recounts her experience running for a seat on the CASC board of directors. Tune in to hear about Dr. Cervantes' journey and her commitment to enhancing member engagement and representation in CASC.

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In this solo episode, Christina explores how advocating for a ceasefire aligns with key K12 standards. From prioritizing safety and well-being to fostering a positive school culture and engaging with our community, she delves into the role of ethical leadership in promoting peace. Christina discusses the significance of advocating for a ceasefire and its alignment with K12 standards, including Educational Leadership, School Climate and Culture, Community Engagement and Partnerships, and Ethical Leadership and Professionalism. She explores why advocating for peace matters, the challenges administrators may face, and issues a call to action for prioritizing ethical leadership and creating a safer, more peaceful learning environment. Tune in for valuable insights and actionable steps toward advocating for peace in education!

Please feel free to use and share these templates widely! Let's unite as an educational community to advocate for a ceasefire now and make a meaningful impact in the lives of our students and communities.

In this episode, Elin goes solo to honor the life of Nex Benedict by offering strategies for School Leaders to create inclusive school environments. Elin doesn’t go into detail about the incident but instead focuses on what can be done in our schools so this doesn’t happen again.

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In this episode, Elin is solo and shares her thoughts on National School Counseling Week as a former school counselor.

Gain insights, perspectives, and heartfelt stories on the vital role of school counselors in shaping students' lives. Tune in for a meaningful exploration of the impact, challenges, and successes within the world of school counseling and why National School Counseling Week is important to participate in.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina navigate a diverse landscape, jumping from intimate discussions within Black and brown educator affinity circles to a deep dive into the impactful world of Ethnic Studies programs.

The journey unfolds through the lens of the Pajaro Valley Unified School District and culminates in insights from Dr. Allyson Tintiangco-Cubales, an esteemed Ethnic Studies Professor at SFSU. Despite the seemingly scattered topics, the hosts connect the dots, revealing a cohesive narrative that underscores the profound influence Ethnic Studies has on education and communities.

As the episode concludes, Elin and Christina issue a compelling call to action, encouraging listeners to actively engage in discussions surrounding the development and impact of Ethnic Studies in shaping inclusive and transformative educational experiences. Tune in for an illuminating exploration that transcends boundaries and provokes thoughtful reflections.

References:

In this episode, Elin and Christina are honored to host Zeyda Garcia, Founder of Healing Aguas Wellness Solutions, LLC, a mental health and wellness consulting firm. Zeyda, a licensed therapist and lead school counselor, is dedicated to ensuring all students have access to mental health services. Her work focuses on creating community-responsive spaces of healing, honoring the complexities of individuals.

Based in Oakland, CA, Zeyda has developed impactful counseling programs in schools and supported clients through trauma and mental health concerns. As an adjunct professor at the University of San Francisco, she trains graduate students to be community-responsive counselors, contributing to the development of pre-licensed therapists in school settings.

Join us for a conversation with Zeyda as we explore her journey, innovative approaches to mental health in education, and the importance of inclusive spaces for healing.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have an inspiring conversation with the incredible Dr. Michelle Seijas as we delve into the art of helping others live purpose-driven lives! Get ready for insightful wisdom, practical tips, and a dose of motivation to elevate your journey. 

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In this episode, Elin and Christina, former secondary administrators and current school leader coaches, share their insights on how high school leaders can navigate the critical tasks at the end of the fall semester and set the stage for a successful spring. Tune in for some straight-up advice and practical tips to be mindful of and consider as you wrap up the school year, transition to the next semester of the year, and navigate the challenges.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina want to address the silence they are witnessing in their local school districts about Palestine. Listen in as they offer suggestions for School Leaders to support students and staff when addressing global issues, especially between Palestine and Israel.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with Dr. Natalie Mejia. The founding principal of the only boarding school in California. It was a great conversation with so much for school leaders to take away and reflect on.

Dr. Natalie Mejia has been serving our community as a dedicated, transformational educator for 11+ years. She is currently an educational coach and consultant, founding principal to the SEED School in Los Angeles County, and an adjunct professor to aspiring teachers.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have the pleasure of conversing with a long-time mentor, colleague, and friend.

Dr. Yee played a pivotal role in their journey from teachers and counselors to site administration. The first encounter was at a parent-counselor conference, where he approached as a Skyline High School parent, not a boss boss. From there, a professional relationship blossomed.

Dr. Yee's support and encouragement were unwavering. He even penned an article about Elin and Christina in an Oakland magazine article, proud that they returned to serve their hometown community. Stay tuned for Part II to hear more on this incredible journey!

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In this episode, Elin and Christina address a post they came across in a Facebook group. This time it’s talking about something School Counselors often have to deal with…advocating for their profession and explaining what they do! 

School leaders, this episode is especially important for you to listen to.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a great conversation with their long-time colleague and fellow admin, John Nepomuceno.  From the 619 to the 510 to the 415, John has been serving the CA school community. Listen in as they talk about what led John into administration and what he has learned throughout the way. We spend time discussing resiliency and what that means to him. 

There is a lot to learn from this episode, and we can’t wait for you to listen to it. 

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John Villanueva Nepomuceno, or “Nepo,” is a native of Southeast San Diego, and began his career in Education, working as a tutor, mentor, and college advisor, for various organizations in East Oakland at the age of 19. He started his career in San Francisco Unified in 2015, and has been serving as Assistant Principal at Balboa High School since. Prior to that, he served as a longtime English and CTE Teacher as well as Co-Director for the Mandela Law and Public Service Academy at Fremont High School in East Oakland. Additionally, he taught English at San Lorenzo High School and San Diego High School, and was a Substitute Teacher for San Diego Unified, teaching every grade, K-12, at over 25 schools in the City of San Diego.

He earned his BA in Sociology, and two MA’s in Education at UC Berkeley, through the Multicultural Urban Secondary English (MUSE) Program, and the Principal Leadership Institute. He is currently a Fellow for the School Leaders Program at Stanford. He is a father of two. 

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In this episode, Elin & Christina try on their "Dear Abby" hats and address a Facebook post from a School Leadership group. The post brought up something they often hear from their clients and even experienced it themselves... managing the transition from classroom to administration. Listen in as they unpack the mindset struggles a new administrator may deal with in their first year and maybe even longer.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with their former teacher and Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) director, Mr. James (Jamie) Treacy. He is a devoted OUSD educator for the past 10 years, and he is currently the OUSD instructional coach for Arts, Media Entertainment, and Fashion programs as of 2022. Take a listen as they catch up with a former colleague as he shares his educational journey and his equity-focused coaching practices.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation about their experience at the 2023 ASCA annual conference in Atlanta, GA...not New Orleans. You'll have to listen to the episode to get that. They describe the workshops they attended and their overall takeaways.

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In this episode, Elin & Christina have a conversation with Cecilia Paz Aguilar. We talked about her early education experiences that really impacted the type of educator she is today. From early advocacy and its impact to how a focus on school turned into a focus on staying alive. Rigor was a big theme in this conversation and how love must play a part.

Cecilia Paz Aguilar is a Senior Manager with TNTP for the Southwest Region (LA, TX, AR, OK, AR, or NM). She leads the regional Conference Strategy where she is committed to elevating the work of the Southwest in spaces that align with organizational priorities. Her work has led to successful TNTP presentations at CABE, NABE, TABSE, ALAS, and SXSW EDU. Cecilia holds a BA in Psychology, an MBA in Educational Leadership, and an Administrative Credential. She has served as an educator (grades 6-12), an instructional coach, and a Founding Principal with experience in California, Louisiana, and Texas. 

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with Alexandrea Creer Kahn. Christina and Alex met during their pre-educator years back in the early 2000s. For the past 18 years, Alex has worked in several roles in K-12 and higher ed including teacher, school coach, principal, and district leader as well as graduate instructor. Take a listen to Alex’s educational journey and how it impacts her equity-focused leadership practices today. 

Alexandrea Creer Kahn started her career in education, working to support elementary school teachers and leaders to engage in the school improvement process. Over the course of her career focusing on educational equity, Alex has worked in several roles in K–12 and higher ed including teacher, school coach, principal, and district leader, as well as lecturer for Stanford University. Recently, Alex co-authored the book Identity Safe Classrooms: Grades 6–12 Pathway to Belonging and Learning and Belonging and Inclusion in Identity Safe Schools: a Guide for Educational Leaders. A Bay Area native, Alex enjoys spending her time with her husband and sons, reading, and spending time enjoying nature.

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We are taking a quick break! We will be back with a new episode on July 11, 2023.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with their former professor, Dora Dome. They talk about what it was like being students in her class and how she approached education law to empower educators. Dora Dome went from searching for a profession that makes good money to making a difference! Her story and experience will inspire you.

Dora J. Dome has practiced Education Law for over 26 years, primarily in the areas of student issues and special education. She graduated from the University of Hawaii, Richardson School of Law (J.D.), and from the University of California, Los Angeles (B.A.). Ms. Dome also completed a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion through Cornell University in 2021.

Ms. Dome currently provides legal representation to school districts on student issues and develops and conducts professional development training for district staff that focus on Bullying and Legal Compliance, viewed through an Equity Lens, in a proactive effort to build staff capacity to address the changing needs of their students.

In this re-release episode, Elin and Christina talk about admin turnover and burnout. They share their experience with it and how it is still relevant today.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina talk about the importance of team building. They reflect on their own experiences and why admin retreats make a difference in how they function and accomplish goals.

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In this episode, Elin & Christina have a guest, Sasha Kirkman. They talk about supporting new leaders, equity practices, and the need to humanize our systems. Sasha also talks about her Design 4 Depth framework and how she encourages educators to put it into practice.

About our guest:

In this episode, Elin and Christina replay their IG live where they talk about what an equity-focused master schedule does NOT look like. They talk about actions that make the master schedule inequitable, and possible solutions.

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In this episode, Elin & Christina unpack their reflections and takeaways from the 2023 National School Counseling Leadership Conference. School Admin, this is a good episode for you to understand the power of counseling departments and a valuable professional development opportunity to invest in.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with their former colleague, Michael Ray. Their school leader journey crossed paths when they were secondary site leaders in Oakland Unified School District. Take a listen as they catch up with a former colleague as he shares his educator journey from transitioning from a classroom teacher to a site-level administrator to his current role as a site-level instructional coach.

After five years as a school leader in Northern California, Michael made the difficult decision to relocate to be closer to his family during the height of the pandemic; stepping back into the classroom at that time to reconnect authentically to the realities of his new home. Currently, he serves as an Instructional Coach at Carver STEAM Academy in Atlanta, and supports male educators of color through Profound Gentlemen, using mindfulness-based strategies to develop teacher self-awareness and resilience.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with their former OUSD colleague, Diana Carty. When Elin and Christina were high school assistant principals, Diana worked at the district level as a College Readiness Specialist. Take a listen as they catch up with a former colleague as she shares her educational journey and how it impacts her equity-focused leadership practices today.

Diana Carty is currently a high school counselor for a comprehensive high school in St. Vrain Valley School District. Prior to her current position, Diana’s educator experience includes non-profit work supporting college-preparatory graduation requirements for high school students in school districts across CA,  a college readiness specialist in Oakland Unified School District;  a coach and program implementation support for digital curriculum, and as an alternative high school counselor in Milpitas Unified School District. Diana has a MS in Counseling as well as a credential in school counseling in California and Colorado. For self-care, Diana is either reading, traveling, or spending time with family and friends.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina give three reasons why school counselors are key players in student success. This is a replay of their Instagram Live event that took place on February 14, 2023, while they were in San Diego for the National School Counseling Leadership Conference. They end the episode with some important questions for school leaders to reflect on. 

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with Josue Diaz Jr. Josue is a life-long learner and insightful educator. We all started our admin careers in Oakland around the same time. He is now at the district office down in San Diego. He has learned a lot on his path and our listeners will take away a lot from this conversation.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina talk about what it truly means to be an equity-driven leader. They share some article reflections and suggestions for school leaders. This is a replay from their first Instagram Live of 2023.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation about data. Not just talking about how data can be used and understood to do our job as educators but how it can make REAL change. Join them as they talk with Rattana Yeang, a data analyst for a large school district. 

Rattana Yeang, a data analyst from Oakland Unified School District's department of Research, Assessment & Data. Rattana has served Oakland schools since 2008 and his day-to-day involves helping educators make more informed, data-driven decisions that empower Oakland Unified kids.

Outside of OUSD, Rattana has devoted much of his time to community and advocacy work. December 2022 marks his official retirement from serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for foster youth in Alameda County. As a CASA Rattana provided one-on-one court advocacy to abused, neglected, and abandoned children who are dependents of the juvenile court. Before that, he served 6 years on the Board of Directors for the Southeast Asia Resource Action Center (SEARAC), the only national civil rights organization that focuses on the needs of Cambodian, Laotian, and Vietnamese American communities and in 2016, Rattana Co-Chaired the Nisei Student Relocation Commemorative Fund (NSRCF) which awarded $50,000 worth of scholarship money to college-bound Southeast Asian American students from the Bay Area.

With most of his volunteer commitments behind him, he's devoting most of his time and energy to memoir writing.

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In this episode, Elin & Christina review their year and celebrate their wins of 2022. They also reflect on what they learned and what they want to accomplish in 2023. 

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In this episode, Elín and Christina have a conversation with a former teacher they once worked with when they were admin. There is a lot to learn from this educator's journey from teacher to director. 

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In this episode, Elin & Christina have a conversation with Dr. Heather Michel, creator of the Instagram account @teachersofcolor_matter. There was a post that got us talking and we wanted to have a bigger conversation about what it meant and what we can learn from it. 

Dr. Heather Michel, is a teacher educator, educational consultant, and instructional coach. She currently works as the Statewide Clinical Practice Coordinator at

National University. Before she became faculty, she was an instructional coach for the Chula Vista Elementary School District at a dual immersion school.

She was a 2nd grade teacher and was a part of Teach for America before that, teaching in Houston, TX! She has her masters in Early Childhood Literacy.

She received her Doctorate in Teaching and Learning from the University of California San Diego in 2013. Her current research interests include Teachers of Color and how to keep them in the classroom past five years. Outside of education, she is happily married and a mom to three children (18, 11, and 7 years old).

Fun fact, she enjoys cooking- she has even written her own cookbook and has plans of opening a café.

In this episode, Elin and Christina define what transformational leadership means to them. They often speak about how they are here to go against the status quo and coach school leaders who want to be transformational...but they hadn't actually defined it. This episode clears it up.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with Dr. Rebecca Pianta about how advocacy work can lead to systemic change. Dr. Pianta is a true equity warrior and it is highlighted in this episode. 

Dr. Rebecca Pianta is a champion for equity and a passionate advocate for the school counseling profession. With 17 years of experience in education, she has been a school counselor at all levels, district lead counselor, administrator, adjunct professor, and co-developer of the Antiracist Professional Learning Series. As Coordinator of Counseling and Student Support in her former District, Dr. Pianta oversaw the District-wide comprehensive school counseling program and led in the development of the District Cultural Proficiency Strategic Plan. Due to her diligent leadership, eleven schools earned the Recognized American School Counselors Association (ASCA) Model Program (RAMP) designation. In 2019, she was recognized as California and Orange County School Counselor Advocate of the Year. Currently, Dr. Pianta is the Coordinator of College and Career Readiness at Santa Ana Unified School District and an Adjunct Professor at Concordia University. She is also an ASCA Lead RAMP Reviewer and Director of Equity and Diversity for the California Association of School Administrators Region 17.

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In the episode, Elin and Christina talk about the California Association of School Counselors 2022 annual conference with a focus on what School Leaders need to know.

There were so many takeaways that Elin expanded on for our school leaders to consider.

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In this episode, Elin and Christina have a conversation with Abbey Kerins. Abbey Kerins has been a public education leader in the Bay Area since 2004. She has been a teacher-leader, a District-level literacy coach and coordinator, an administrator at San Leandro High School, and most recently serves as the Director of State and Federal Compliance for Newark Unified School District. 

We talk about using data to tell a story and her journey running for a school board position.

In this episode, Elin and Christina dive deeper into their book and discuss how and why to unpack your values. They share their own experiences with how using their values helped guide them in their leadership.

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In this episode, Elin & Christina have a conversation about the vision and mission statement. Not just for the school but for your leadership as well. Listen in as they discuss their experience grounding their decisions in the vision and mission of the school, and how expanding on their WHY helped them get there. 

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In this episode, Elin & Christina discuss their reflective process. You will hear about their book, The Power of Reflection: an Equitable and Intentional Planning Guide for k-12 School Leaders. They give you a quick introduction and an overall picture of what they do to be intentional with planning out their roles and responsibilities. 

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In this episode, Elin & Christina share their experiences with exit interviews and what they would do with the data as school site leaders. Listen in Elin reflects on her most recent exit interview and what she wishes she would have asked. 

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In this episode, we take a listen to Elin's educational journey and how it connects to her "why" of being an educator. We are re-releasing this episode to explore the roots of where we started and how it's connected to where we are headed. 

Share this podcast with a friend or colleague. 

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In this episode, Elin & Christina do some catching up and reflecting on the end of this school year. Listen in as Elin updates us on a major decision she made and what's next for them. 

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In this episode, Elin takes some time to reflect and process the tragic shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.

How to Get Involved:

It has been over a year since Elin & Christina have been releasing podcast episodes. While Christina is still on maternity leave, they decided to re-release their first episode ever. This episode introduces you to who they are and they talk about why they started the podcast in the first place. Listen in and get reacquainted with the purpose behind Empowered Conversations with Elin & Christina. 

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