Lift Every Voice

Radford University Teacher Education Students

Edited by:
Antonio L. Ellis, American University
Lisa Maria Grillo, Howard University
Jania Huthinson, Radford University

A volume in the series: Urban Education Studies Series. Editor(s): Nicholas D. Hartlep, Berea College. Thandeka K. Chapman, University of California, San Diego.

Published 2024

Radford University was founded as a Normal School for teachers in 1910 and has remained a leader in teacher education ever since. Today, the School of Teacher Education and Leadership is defined by our strong partnerships with public schools and our diverse programs that prepare teachers and administrators to serve children from birth through high school. The voices of undergraduate students are often silenced and omitted from scholarly literature beyond serving participants in research studies.

This volume legitimizes the voices and life experiences of Radford University undergraduate teacher education students as emerging authorities on the subject of teacher education. Contributors employ a critical storytelling methodology to illuminate the ways in which classroom practices of teachers impacted them academically, socially, and emotionally. The editors hope that these stories, anecdotes, and analysis will be valuable to preservice and classroom teachers who are engaged in educating Pre-K through 12 students.

ENDORSEMENTS:

"'Lift Every Voice: Radford University Teacher Education Students' is a powerful anthology that amplifies the voices of undergraduate teacher education students at Radford University. Through a critical storytelling methodology, contributors shed light on their experiences in the classroom and the profound impact of teacher practices on their academic, social, and emotional development. This volume serves as a testament to the expertise and wisdom of emerging authorities in the field of teacher education, inviting readers to listen, learn, and reflect on the transformative power of teaching." — Christopher Emdin, Teachers College, Columbia University

"The editors and contributors of this volume offers a groundbreaking exploration into the lived experiences of undergraduate teacher education students at Radford University. In a field where their voices are frequently marginalized, this volume stands as a testament to the significance of their perspectives. Through candid narratives and profound insights, these emerging authorities shed light on the intricacies of teacher education, challenging traditional scholarly norms." — Tyrone Howard, University of California, Los Angeles

"'Lift Every Voice' is a poignant book that shines a light on the lived experiences of students in K-12 schools. Through authentic narratives and reflective insights, this book offers a compelling exploration of the joys, challenges, and complexities of the educational journey. It is a must-read for educators, policymakers, and anyone passionate about fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments for all learners. Congratulations to Radford University students and the editors of this undergraduate student-led volume." — Bettina Love, Teachers College, Columbia University

CONTENTS
Foreword, William Bill Ayers. Preface. Acknowledgments. Harmonies and Melodies, Victoria Branscome. Observing an Amazing Second-Grade Class, Claire Morris. Identifying Influential Teachers From a Student’s Perspective, Shyheim Woods. Educators Promoting Growth Beyond Standardized Test Scores, Kaylee Golder. Dr. Stirling Barfield: An Instant Role Model, Madison F. Keaton. Mrs. Leona K. Brown: What an Extraordinary Teacher Looks Like, Allison G. Brown. How a First Grade Teacher Changed My Life, Joleigh Helton. Ms. Hart and Mrs. Gilbert: The Inspirations of a Future Educator, Taylor Poff. The Impact of an Educator, Brooke E. Kelly. A Teacher of Love, Compassion, and an Influence, Christian R. Worley. What Is a Quality Teacher? Looking Beyond the Intellectual, Maddison Parrish. Inspired by an African American Male English Teacher, Jabin Walker. Overcoming the Hardships of My Early Education, Katherine L. Wagoner. A Teacher’s Encouragement Led Me to College, Jada Turner. The Effect a Good Teacher Has on Students, Jenna Staton. The Presence of Ms. Miller: Teacher as a Caregiver, Britney Conner. How Teachers Have Affected Me, Jacob Mays. Mrs. Owens and Ms. C: A Comparative Analysis of Two Teachers, Kelcie Lemons. Afterword: Embracing the Power of Student Voices in Teacher Education, Antonio L. Ellis. About the Editors. About the Contributors.