FROM THE ARCHIVES - Redefining Education & Black Excellence with Asha von Liebtag

Episode Overview
In this powerful episode, Dr. Asia Lyons sits down with Asha von Liebtag, an accomplished educator, consultant, and advocate for Black excellence in education. Asha shares her journey from Newark, New Jersey, through various teaching roles in both urban and affluent school districts, and into her current work as an educational consultant and curriculum developer. The conversation explores the complexities of Black identity in education, the importance of representation, and the challenges and joys of teaching across diverse communities.

Key Topics & Highlights
1. Asha’s Educational Journey & Family Legacy

Asha’s inspiration to pursue education began with her grandmother, who overcame significant obstacles to earn multiple degrees later in life, instilling the value of education and striving for excellence.
The impact of family, especially grandmothers, as pillars of strength and motivation for Black women in education.
2. Early Teaching Experiences

Asha’s commitment to giving back to her community in Newark and her initial desire to teach in urban schools.
Her eye-opening internship in a wealthy, predominantly white school district, where she was often the first Black educator her students had encountered.
The importance of Black educators being present in all types of schools, not just those serving Black students.
3. Representation, Identity, and Breaking Stereotypes

The dual role of Black educators: serving as role models for Black students and challenging stereotypes for non-Black students.
The need to move beyond the idea that Black teachers are only for Black students, and the value of diverse perspectives in all classrooms.
Asha’s reflections on the limitations and expectations placed on Blackness and Black excellence in education.
4. Navigating School Cultures & Systemic Challenges

Experiences with both supportive and toxic school environments, including the challenges of working in charter schools and the emotional toll of long hours and high expectations.
The struggle to balance personal life, motherhood, and professional responsibilities.
The importance of restorative practices, authentic community, and supportive leadership in schools.
5. Transitioning Out of the Classroom

Asha’s decision to leave traditional teaching during the pandemic to focus on her family and launch her consulting business, Lit Deliberate.
Her work in academic coaching, curriculum development, and mentoring new teachers at Rutgers University.
The value of recognizing and leveraging transferable skills as an educator.
6. Advice for Schools & Districts

The need for systemic change to retain Black educators, including supportive cultures, meaningful inclusion, and addressing the unique challenges faced by teachers of color.
The importance of seeing educators as whole humans, not just as professionals.
7. Personal Growth & Joy

Asha’s current focus on family, self-care, and personal growth, including her ritual of honoring her grandmother and finding joy within.
Her ongoing work on a book that blends motivational self-help with real-life classroom lessons.
Notable Quotes
“Education is key. Strive for excellence. That’s something my grandmother drilled into me.”
“Black educators are not just for Black students. We need to be represented everywhere.”
“If you are an effective teacher, you do the heavy lifting. You scaffold, you model, you find strategies to reach every kid.”
“Find what you love about teaching and see how you can package it for the next phase of your life.”
“I refuse to seek joy outside myself. I choose to find it within.”
Resources & Guest Info
Asha von Liebtag: Educational Consultant, Curriculum Developer, Academic Coach
Connect with Asha: [Contact info/website/socials as provided by guest]
Lit Deliberate: Asha’s consulting business focused on curriculum and academic coaching
Rutgers University: Where Asha mentors and coaches new English teachers
Connect with the Show
Host: Dr. Asia Lyons
For questions, feedback, or to reach out to Asha, see the contact information in the show notes.
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