Benches in the Bathroom

Black Educators Matter: Project 500 Podcast

Dr. Evisha Ford, LCSW

I Can Dream Center

Founder, Executive Director, Author

Author: Benches in the Bathroom: Leading a Physically, Emotionally, and Socially Safe School Culture

"Err on the side of children."

In this week's episode, we had the honor of interviewing Dr. Evisha Ford, a 20-year veteran educator whose wisdom shines through her dedication to students. Dr. Ford's mantra, "Err on the side of children," encapsulates her lifelong commitment to putting students first, especially those with disabilities. She urges us to ask more questions, emphasizing that it's better to have questions than answers. As a social worker, she has honed her ability to discern the environmental factors affecting a person's success, guiding her remarkable journey.

"Creating an organizational culture of love and respect… it’s the vibe."

Dr. Ford's impactful work extends to creating the "I Can Dream Center," a therapeutic school serving students with disabilities, celebrating its 10th-year gala this October. She advocates passionately for self-care among educators, fostering safe spaces for teachers to support vulnerable students. Dr. Ford's episode delves into issues like over-diagnosis and overrepresentation of Black boys in special education spaces, highlighting the evolving landscape of special education. Her story and values inspire us to ask great questions, spark ideas, and cultivate a culture of love and respect in education, ultimately leaving a profound imprint on the lives of students and communities.