In this impactful episode, award-winning author and family partnerships expert, Ari Gerzon-Kessler, explores the crucial topic of building authentic connections between educators and underrepresented families. Ari shares his expertise on the current reality of family engagement in schools and how it often falls short of creating genuine, lasting partnerships.
We dive deep into the difference between family involvement and authentic partnerships, unpacking why traditional approaches to family engagement may not be enough. Ari also provides practical strategies for school leaders on how to create sustainable family partnerships that promote equity, trust, and collaboration.
Lastly, we explore the concept of FET Teams (Families and Educators Together Teams), and how these innovative teams are transforming school-family relationships for the better. This episode is packed with actionable insights for educators and leaders looking to strengthen their connection with families and build inclusive, supportive school communities. Don’t miss this essential conversation on fostering meaningful partnerships in education!
About Ari Gerzon-Kessler:
Ari Gerzon-Kessler is a sought after speaker and professional learning provider. He is the author of On The Same Team: Bringing Educators & Underrepresented Families Together, which won the Gold Medal from the Independent Publishers Book Awards for outstanding education book of 2024. He is a speaker, trainer, and coach working with schools and districts committed to forging stronger school-family partnerships. Ari also leads the Family Partnerships department for the Boulder Valley School District (CO).
Ari has been an educator since 2000, having served as a principal and bilingual teacher. In 2006, Ari was a recipient of the Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund. As principal, his school received the Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award in 2013. His leadership efforts to strengthen partnerships with underrepresented families and dismantle unjust practices was featured in Education Week in 2015.
Ari regularly presents at national and international conferences on Families and Educators Together (FET) teams and other innovative family partnership best practices. His writings have been featured in a variety of educational publications, including Educational Leadership and Principal Magazine.
Ari received his bachelor’s in African American Studies from Wesleyan University and a master’s in instruction and curriculum from the University of Colorado.
Follow Ari Gerzon-Kessler:

• Website:www.mediatorsfoundation.org/current-projects/families-and-educators-together-project

• Facebook: ari.gerzonkessler/

• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/arigerzon-kessler (www.linkedin.com/in/arigerzon-kessler)

• Email: arigerzon@gmail.com (mailto:arigerzon@gmail.com)

Free resources: docs.google.com/document/d/1RtdfOGJkHBR6mQj9ak-PKIf6gbfQQtFS_eUZrvOZcZ4/edit
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Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD?
Contact Joshua Stamper (joshstamper.com/contact/) for presentations on Leadership Capacity, Mental Health Strategies, Alternative Behavior Practices, Leadership Development, and Innovative campus systems.
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Twitter: Joshua__Stamper ( Joshua__Stamper)
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