Lindsay Lyons, an educational justice coach, former NYC public school teacher, and parent who helps families and educators create space for real, meaningful conversations with kids joins me to talk about the challenges educators and families face when navigating hard conversations in schools, especially around inclusion, equity, and neurodivergence. We talk about the importance of student voice, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and addressing the fears and barriers that can get in the way of real change. At the heart of it all is dignity—how honoring kids’ humanity and lived experiences is foundational to building school environments where all learners can truly belong.

About Lindsay Lyons

Lindsay Lyons is an educational justice coach who helps families and educators create spaces for real conversations with kids about current events, hard history, and other high-emotion topics. A parent and former NYC public school teacher, she holds a PhD in Leadership and Change, and is the founder of the blog and podcast, Time for Teachership. Lindsay believes all students deserve literacy, criticality, and leadership skills.

Things you'll learn from this episode

Why creating emotionally safe spaces for honest conversation is essential for learning and connection

How listening to students’ insights can shift adult perspectives and lead to more just educational practices

Why meaningful professional development requires ongoing, year-long support rather than one-off workshops

How restorative practices and constructive disorientation can strengthen community and transform school culture

Why engaging families in difficult conversations—with respect and care—is critical to lasting change

Resources mentioned

Lindsay Lyons website

Grab the free Staying Engaged framework from Lindsay

Lindsay’s Rstorative Conference Companion (free access for listeners)

Want to Spark Change? Create “Constructive Disorientation” (blog post by Lindsay Lyons)

Controversy in the Classroom: The Democratic Power of Discussion by Diana Hess

Challenge Day

Zoretta Hammond

Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain: Promoting Authentic Engagement and Rigor Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students by Zoretta Hammond

Ready for Rigor

Dr. Chris Wells Explains the Theory of Positive Disintegration (Tilt Parenting Podcast)

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