“Surge, to me, is where leaders of color come together to strengthen our capacity to transform the educational experiences of Black and Brown students. As a first-generation Latina who grew up attending underfunded schools and later taught in them, I have witnessed how systemic inequities limit not only students’ learning, but also their future opportunities. My leadership is grounded in these lived experiences and in the cultural wealth of my community. I chose Surge because I want to strengthen my ability to dismantle these barriers, expand mentorship opportunities for first-generation students, and reimagine systems that affirm rather than exclude students of color. Through the Surge Fellowship, I hope to strengthen these skills while building alongside a powerful community of leaders committed to equity and justice.”
Alejandra Sandoval Martinez | Teacher Development Coach, National Louis University