Developing Background Knowledge, An RTC Book Study

From Enslavement to Belovedness: For the Dignity of My People

by Dr. Adelaide L. Sanford

This book is a very personal gift from a Queen to her people—a portal through which self-awareness and a growing human consciousness and awakening can be accessed and affirmed. In this study we learn one families’ journey of affirmation and resilience. As a response to oppression and trauma, Dr. Sanford answers the question of how we got over, a cultural expression that speaks to survival, well-being, cultural excellence and agency under dire situations and circumstances. The powers available to improve life and learning through cultural assets, family and community, and culturally informed teachers and classroom environments—all essential in an age when so many, especially children—are isolated in emotional, economic, and political deserts are a focus of this study.

Readers will work together to delineate the methodologies for growth, agency, and personal and group success suggested by an in depth listen and look at Dr. Sanford’s text. Sanford’s family stories begin on this continent with the period of enslavement. Our study is for educators seeking real talk for understanding the context in which the current age is grounded—the complexities of the educational system, and an internal view of the supports needed to improve resilience and the life chances of students and families of African heritage. 

Dr. Sanford is Vice Chancellor Emerita of the New York State Board of Regents and a Critical Friend of Rochester Teacher Center. She has consistently stressed knowing students.

Participants will be provided a copy of the text and are expected to complete a self-assessment, develop and submit questions related to the topics in the text, and give examples of practice applications for teaching/learning at conclusion of program.

Educators will receive 8 PD hours. Session dates are March 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2026. Teachers should register on Oracle. Community members can register by calling the RTC at 262-8080 or by emailing ymontalvo@rochesterteachers.com. 

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The Power of Question-Driven Teaching: Socratic (Kemetic) Seminars 

for Critical Thinking

In this 4-session interactive course, 3-12 educators learn about and experience question-driven teaching in action. This is a powerful instructional approach that can be used with students to build critical thought, reading for meaning, speaking, and listening, and supporting answers with evidence. In these sessions, teachers will also begin the process of question construction to clarify and strengthen their preparation, lesson planning and instruction of students. Participants will produce a seminar for classroom use. Standard Socratic Seminar protocols will be employed. Practices of inquiry and accountable talk are used. In order to receive compensation ($425), you must attend all sessions and produce a seminar that can be used with your students. Participants will receive support from their colleagues and course facilitators. Work products are due by February 11, 2026.

Dates: January 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026

Time: 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm

Location: NYSUT Offices, 30 N. Union St.

Please forward your intent to participate by submitting your responses to the following by October 29th to meet District deadlines. Submit responses to ymontalvo@rochesterteachers.com.

Name:                                                                        School:  

Job assignment:                                     Years in Service:

Prior experience with this topic (if any)

Explain how this topic may fit into your personal professional learning plans or needs.

What is your motivation for engaging with this approach to teaching and learning?