Episode 62, ACT 3: Insert Humanness HERE - In Conversation with "Start the Conversation"

Teaching Artistry with Courtney J. Boddie

In Act 3 of our three-part series, “In Conversation with ‘Start the Conversation,’” we dive right into a crucial topic: emergency drill support for teachers and kids. In this episode, we spotlight New York City Children's Theater’s Caitlyn McCain and Nicole Hogsett who have developed a groundbreaking resource called, “Start the Conversation.” This video series aims to provide grown-ups with a range of tools needed to engage in ongoing conversations with children on important and complex subjects like race, politics, mental health and LGBTQ+ identities. Our panel discussion focuses specifically on emergency drill support. The inspiration for their work on emergency drill support stems from real-life classroom experiences, including active shooter drills and fire drills. Drawing from their own experiences in classrooms, and in collaboration with educators and mental health professionals, Caitlyn and Nicole have created valuable resources for teachers, teaching artists and anyone working with young people. Their resources include a three-part video series that provide strategies for supporting young people before, during and after they experience emergency drills. They’ve also developed two comprehensive print resources—an Educator Emergency Drill Guide and two visual stories centered on fire drills and lockdown drills. Listen to the conclusion of this informative series to learn more about these essential resources and how they can reshape emergency preparedness in educational settings. Together, we can ensure the well-being and safety of our children while fostering meaningful conversations on these important topics.