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Author: Dr. Darryl S. Diggs, Jr.
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The Peanut Butter and Jelly Dilemma: Navigating the Subjectivity of Job Experience
When it comes to job applications and the hiring process, “experience” is often the buzzword that can make or break a candidate’s chances. But what exactly constitutes experience, and who gets to decide its value? As I recently discussed with my sister, the definition of experience is far more subjective than we might think. Let’s…
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DEI Bracketology: A Tournament of Ideologies in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Imagine a world where key DEI concepts are pitted against each other—equity squares off against equality, affirmative action faces the color-blind approach, cultural sensitivity challenges inclusivity, and many more dynamic duels where the true victor is a deeper understanding of what it takes to foster an egalitarian society. Navigating the landscape of Diversity, Equity, and…
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“Apple Vision Pro: Driving Educational Equity toward Social Change”
In our rapidly evolving technological landscape, a new lens is being crafted, one not just to augment our visual reality but to profoundly redefine our relationship with the world, particularly in areas traditionally marred by socio-economic disparities and inequities. This is not merely about a feature set or an upgrade but the ability to imagine…
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The Long Road to Educational Equity: Navigating Real and Perceived Barriers
Educational equity can feel like a quixotic pursuit – we envision a future where each student thrives academically with teachers embracing their strengths and culture. Yet long-standing barriers embedded in systems, mindsets, and policies make this ideal seem unattainable. The path towards substantive equity can resemble an endlessly steep and rocky terrain with a minefield…
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A Pound of Flesh
What is the relationship between discipline policies and disproportionate practices that impact marginalized students? We’ve all heard the old phrase, “spare the rod and spoil the child,” – but what does this age-old adage mean for our modern education system? Discipline policies play an essential role in setting expectations for student behavior – and yet,…
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How Educators Water Down Equity
Education is vital for fostering equity, social justice, and introducing students to difference. Implementing equitable practices in our educational institutions can provide opportunities and resources for student success and help to level the playing field for historically marginalized groups. However, there are ways in which educators often unintentionally water down these efforts and need help…
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How to Achieve Your “Moonshot” in Leadership
This blog post is a snippet from my book, The Open Water. My book allowed me to document a moment in my life where I experienced (in real-time) hurt, pain, and doubt. Without knowing, the journal-turned manuscript, evolved into pages of my soul speaking into the existence of faith in things “unseen.” As your eyes walk…
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“A More Just and Equal World: Educational Equity through the Words and Lyrics from President Obama and Jay-Z.”
The architects and pioneers described education as a “great equalizer,” offering an avenue to success and opportunity, no matter one’s background or circumstances. Unfortunately, many students, especially those from previously excluded and marginalized communities, are deprived of this privilege. President Obama and Jay-Z come to mind when I think about inspiring individuals for their authentic…
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A Thriller in the Boxing Ring: Equity Beat Down
Imagine walking into an arena, and the usher glances at your tickets and motions you to your seats. You spot your seats, and the venue is bursting with a wide variety of energy as we all await the main event. Several lackluster bouts on the undercard, but the audience came for the headliner. The announcer…
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“Sustaining the Momentum: 99 Problems and Inequity, Ain’t One”
In my previous blog post, I discussed the importance of pursuing educational equity, inspired by the words of President Obama and Jay-Z. I outlined several concrete steps we could take, such as investing in early childhood education and advocating for more equitable school funding. While those recommendations remain critically important, achieving lasting change requires ongoing…
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Deion Sanders and the Authentic Power of Leadership
“The culture of athletics, marketing, individuality, and authenticity has shifted due to the phenomenon of Deion “Primetime” Sanders.” Deion “Primetime” Sanders has acquired many names throughout his athletic life, “Coach Prime, Neon Deion, and Primetime.” These names are the tip of the iceberg for Coach Prime, and decenters have called him arrogant, conceded, and a…
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Leading Schools Through Crisis: The Power of Preparation
School leaders have an enormous responsibility – to create safe, supportive, and effective learning environments for students, even when facing unexpected crises. Crises can hit a school community without warning, whether it’s a natural disaster, public health emergency, violence, or sudden tragedy. However, with the proper preparation and leadership, school leaders can guide their communities…