58. Up for Learning with Lindsey Halman and Evelyn Monje

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We all understand the importance of equity in today’s society. As social revolutionaries, we often focus on creating economic equity, racial equity, and gender equity, but what about the disproportionate power dynamic between students and those “in charge” of their education? </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the adult-dominated world of academia, how do we engage youth as partners, contributors, and primary stakeholders in the important conversations and decisions within their schools? And how do we hold space and create the change they are so hungry for?</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Today on the podcast, I'm speaking with UP for Learning’s Executive Director Lindsey Halman and Youth Advisory Council member Evelyn Monje. UP empowers students by creating a youth-adult partnership for change, fostering a student-centered learning environment, and fostering the power of autonomy to our students, creating a socially just climate and culture for all. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Listen in!</span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">About Lindsey Halman and Evelyn Monje:</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lindsey Halman joined the UP team in 2018 after 15 years as a middle-level educator, leader, and advocate. Prior</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">to joining UP, she co-founded The Edge Academy at Essex Middle School. Edge Academy created a strong focus on youth voice and partnership, student-centered learning, project-based learning, and restorative practices. Lindsey holds her National Board Certification as a middle-level generalist and is a strong advocate for reimagining and transforming education.</span></p> <p><a href= "https://www.upforlearning.org/up-leadership/"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">Evelyn Monje</span></a> <span style= "font-weight: 400;">is a new employee of UP for Learning as of 2021. She is a current senior at Winooski High School and is enrolled in the Early College program through the