By Vera Naputi
Madison East High School
When it comes to teaching and raising the next generation, it’s not just about lessons and grades — it’s about impact, legacy and love. Over the past several years I have studied and embraced author Maisha Winn’s research and practices regarding justice in and out of school contexts, particularly as it relates to literacy, but more so as a holistic teaching practice.
Her stances for justice are particularly critical and relevant: history matters, language matters, race matters, justice matters, and futures matter. These principles are more than words — they’re a movement and a way for both educators and parents to check themselves.
Let’s break it down: the word pedagogical comes from the Greek root “ped,” meaning “child,” and “agogos,” meaning “to guide.” It’s about how we guide children — whether as teachers, parents, or caregivers — through their learning and development. A pedagogical stance is a set of core beliefs about how you nurture and shape young minds.
“History matters” reminds us to share the full story, including the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities, so kids know where they come from and what’s possible. “Language matters” asks us to honor the way kids speak, respecting the culture and identity behind their words. “Race matters” demands that we name and challenge racial inequities shaping their world. “Justice matters” calls us to actively disrupt oppression. And “futures matter” is a commitment to building the lives our children deserve.
But here’s the thing: I can’t just preach Winn’s stances without creating my own, which Winn encourages. For me, it’s about cultivating a vibe, tapping into the energy, and shaping spaces so young people feel valued, competent, and respected. One of my stances is “Pull up for your people.” That means I’m showing up for my students and my colleagues, no matter what. I’m here to support and advocate, so no one feels alone.
Another one I live by is “Love is in the details, so don’t minimize yourself.” Every lesson I plan, every conversation I have — it’s about being intentional and bringing my whole self into the mix. Another stance is “My wellness is bound up in my impact.” If I’m not good, how can I give my best to the people I serve?
Parents can embrace Maisha Winn’s stances, too. I love it when parents share their stances, each one aligning with core values. One parent shared hers as, “Be the first teacher,” a reminder that the most important lessons start at home. Another parent holds the stance “Home is the first safe space,” a commitment to making home a place where kids feel seen, heard and loved unconditionally. And one of my colleague’s stance as a parent-educator is “Curiosity is a superpower,” encouraging children to ask questions and dream big without fear of judgment.
Educators and parents are co-creators. By crafting your pedagogical stances, you join Winn’s mission to make education a tool for equity and empowerment. As educators and parents, it’s about creating a legacy of justice in your classroom, your home, your community and beyond. Winn’s stances provide a foundation, but when we show up with our own commitments, we build stronger bridges for our kids. So, what’s your stance?
