Anne Jacobson is the co-facilitator of the Opportunity Coalition Network and a proud Leader for Just Schools. She is sharing her story for the Opportunity Archive Project. The Opportunity Archive Project aims to collect stories about how our past has influenced our current and future racial, social and educational justice work. We believe these stories can help build solidarity and expand our collective vision for better futures. Here is Anne's story in her own words.
"Being a part of Leaders for Just Schools has dramatically influenced my social justice and equity journey. Social justice work has played a pivotal role in shaping the past, present, and future of future teacher leaders. When I started my education career, the education systems often reflected and perpetuated societal inequalities, leaving marginalized groups disadvantaged. As someone who has always been involved in special education, I witnessed how these systems affected the students I worked with. The results were students being labeled, segregated, and tracked, which resulted in many students feeling stigmatized, inadequate, and left with limited choices. It was heartbreaking, and I knew right then and there that I had to be an advocate by helping my students find their voices, challenging discriminatory practices and inequity, and promoting inclusivity as much as possible. Reflecting on that time of my career, I see how my advocacy skills helped prepare me for the rewarding work I have done with Leaders for Just Schools. Specifically, sharing knowledge and perspectives with other educators who seek to dismantle the systemic barriers and advocate for more equitable learning opportunities and resources, including classroom materials, curriculum, and technology, that contribute to students having a quality education regardless of their race, gender, or socio-economic status. I have my two feet firmly planted in social justice work and will never look back.
This is my third year as a co-facilitator for Leaders for Just Schools, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity. This work has left an indelible mark on the trajectory of teacher leadership, shaping the past, influencing the present, and guiding the future. I plan to continue my work to inspire current and future teacher leaders. I want them to advocate for equity and inclusivity in education and recognize their profound impact on shaping a more just and equitable society. This work will never be finished. The pursuit of creating equitable educational systems is dynamic, challenging, and constantly evolving. I remain committed to being a part of the solution."