Howard E. Fields III, Ph.D. Speaking Topics

• From Aspiration to Action: Practical Strategies for Achieving Educational Equity

  Educational equity is not merely a lofty ideal – it is an urgent imperative that requires intentional action and unwavering commitment. In this powerful presentation, Dr. Howard E. Fields III, author of "How to Achieve Educational Equity," shares his insights and strategies for transforming schools into inclusive and equitable environments where every student can thrive. Drawing from his experiences as an educational leader and equity advocate, Dr. Fields challenges conventional thinking and offers a framework for identifying and dismantling systemic barriers that perpetuate disparities in student outcomes. Attendees will gain practical tools for examining existing policies, practices, and mindsets through an equity lens, and learn how to develop targeted interventions that address the unique needs of marginalized student populations. By moving beyond surface-level diversity efforts and engaging in courageous conversations about race, power, and privilege, educators can create lasting change and ensure that all students have access to the opportunities they deserve. This thought-provoking session will inspire and equip participants to be champions of equity in their own schools and communities.

  Attendee Takeaways:

  • Understand the critical importance of educational equity and its impact on student outcomes
  • Learn a framework for identifying and addressing systemic inequities in schools
  • Gain practical strategies for creating inclusive learning environments and culturally responsive curricula
  • Develop skills for facilitating difficult conversations about race, power, and privilege
  • Leave with a personal action plan for advancing educational equity in their own context​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

• How Student Transfer Policies Impact Black School Communities

  Student transfer policies and open enrollment programs are often touted as a means of expanding educational opportunities and promoting school choice. However, as Dr. Howard E. Fields III reveals in his groundbreaking book "Transfers & Open Enrollment: The Denigration of Black School Communities," these policies can have unintended and detrimental consequences, particularly for Black students and their neighborhoods. In this eye-opening presentation, Dr. Fields examines the historical context and present-day implications of student transfer laws, drawing from his extensive research and firsthand experiences as an educator in St. Louis, Missouri. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how these policies can exacerbate racial and socioeconomic segregation, drain resources from already underfunded schools, and undermine the social fabric of Black communities. By exploring the complexities and challenges surrounding student transfers, this session aims to spark critical conversations about the need for more equitable and holistic approaches to school reform. Participants will leave with a heightened awareness of the issues at stake and a renewed sense of urgency to advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being and success of all students.

  Attendee Takeaways:

  • Understand the historical context and current landscape of student transfer policies and open enrollment programs
  • Examine the unintended consequences of these policies on Black students and their communities
  • Explore the relationship between student transfers, racial segregation, and resource allocation in schools
  • Gain insights into the social and emotional impact of student displacement on Black neighborhoods
  • Identify strategies for advocating for more equitable and community-centered approaches to school choice and reform​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

• Leading the AI Revolution in Education: A Guide for School and District Administrators

  Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the landscape of education, offering unprecedented opportunities for personalized learning, data-driven decision making, and administrative efficiency. However, for many school and district leaders, the prospect of integrating AI into their existing systems and practices can be overwhelming and fraught with uncertainty. In this forward-thinking presentation, Dr. Howard E. Fields III, a seasoned education administrator and co-founder of EduOpenings.com, demystifies the world of AI and provides a practical roadmap for leaders looking to harness its potential in their own contexts. Drawing from his experiences spearheading AI initiatives in schools and his insights as an edtech entrepreneur, Dr. Fields will guide attendees through the process of developing a comprehensive AI strategy that aligns with their district's unique goals and values. From identifying key use cases and selecting the right tools to preparing staff and stakeholders for the transition, this session covers all the essential steps for a successful AI implementation. Participants will also gain valuable insights into navigating the ethical and logistical challenges of AI, such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the evolving role of teachers in an AI-powered classroom. Whether you're a curious novice or a tech-savvy innovator, this presentation will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to lead the AI revolution in your own district.

  Attendee Takeaways:

  • Understand the current and future landscape of AI in education and its potential impact on student outcomes
  • Learn a step-by-step process for developing and implementing a district-wide AI strategy
  • Discover best practices for selecting and integrating AI tools into existing curricula and systems
  • Gain insights into preparing and empowering staff and stakeholders for the AI transition
  • Explore ethical considerations and practical solutions for data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the changing role of educators in an AI-driven world​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

• Not Just Surviving: Strategies for Black Male Success in PWIs

  For Black men, navigating the complex terrain of Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) can be a daunting and isolating experience. From facing racial microaggressions and stereotypes to grappling with impostor syndrome and cultural disconnection, the challenges are numerous and often invisible to those outside the Black male experience. In this empowering presentation, Dr. Howard E. Fields III draws from his own journey as a Black educator and leader in PWIs to provide insights and strategies for not just surviving, but thriving in these environments. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the unique pressures and obstacles faced by Black men in academia and the workplace, and learn practical tools for building resilience, self-advocacy, and community. Dr. Fields will share his tips for cultivating mentorship relationships, navigating office politics, and leveraging one's unique strengths and perspectives to drive success. By candidly discussing the intersections of race, gender, and power in PWIs, this session aims to create a space for honest dialogue and mutual support among Black male professionals. Participants will leave with a renewed sense of empowerment and a roadmap for charting their own path to success in any environment.

  Attendee Takeaways:

  • Understand the unique challenges and experiences of Black men in Predominantly White Institutions
  • Learn strategies for building resilience and self-advocacy in the face of racial microaggressions and stereotypes
  • Gain insights into cultivating mentorship relationships and building networks of support
  • Develop skills for navigating office politics and leveraging one's unique strengths in the workplace
  • Connect with a community of Black male professionals and allies committed to driving change and success in PWIs​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

• Don't Be a Weak Leader. Please and Thank You

  In today's fast-paced and ever-changing educational landscape, weak leadership can have dire consequences for staff morale, student outcomes, and overall school success. Effective leaders must be assertive, decisive, and unafraid to make tough calls, even in the face of opposition or uncertainty. In this dynamic and thought-provoking presentation, Dr. Howard E. Fields III, a veteran school administrator and leadership coach, shares his no-nonsense approach to cultivating strength and resilience as an education leader. Drawing from his experiences navigating high-stakes situations, from the Ferguson Unrest to district-wide equity reforms, Dr. Fields demonstrates how leaders can use "please" and "thank you" strategically while still projecting confidence, authority, and unwavering commitment to their vision. Attendees will learn practical techniques for communicating assertively, making hard decisions, and holding others accountable with both firmness and empathy. Through interactive exercises and real-world case studies, participants will gain insights into their own leadership styles and develop a toolkit for handling challenging situations with poise and conviction. Whether you're a seasoned administrator or an aspiring leader, this session will inspire you to embrace your inner strength and lead with purpose, even in the most difficult circumstances. Remember: in leadership, as in life, you don't get what you deserve – you get what you negotiate. Please and thank you.

  Attendee Takeaways:

  • Understand the importance of assertiveness and strength in educational leadership
  • Learn strategic uses of "please" and "thank you" that project both authority and empathy
  • Gain practical techniques for communicating decisively and holding others accountable
  • Explore real-world case studies of leaders navigating high-stakes situations with resilience
  • Develop a personalized toolkit for cultivating inner strength and leading with purpose in challenging times​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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