Shana Kwatampora

Shana Kwatampora

In just over a decade I have worked in 3 of the largest districts in Minnesota in schools serving scholars and communities that have been historically and pervasively underrepresented, misrepresented, and systemically marginalized. This is seen within our data, our classroom management techniques, our curriculum, engagement with community, and the overarching ways we operate. The CLEAR Model and the CLEAR Solutions Framework have allowed districts, schools, and educators to critically reflect and make meaningful changes for scholars to show up as their authentic and brilliant selves. The I3 Equity Tools are asset based, they are centered in the humanity of each and every scholar which calls us all to the table as there is no excuse for cracks or pipelines. Dr. Rev Hillstrom’s words and work have pushed me to understand myself more fully which includes my shortcomings and the necessity to do this work in community. An area of surprise for me was the healing I needed personally from the educational trauma I had endured as a student and as a teacher; what a gift to learn about tools that could interrupt systems of dehumanization and cultivate a restorative space together.