Stories From The Field: Dr. Valerie J. Parker Presents at the International Conference on Urban Education

Dr. Valerie J. Parker is passionate about working with others to improve the quality of education for underprivileged and historically marginalized students. She is deeply committed to her community and serves as the Education Committee Chair for the Howard County branch of the NAACP. She and a team of others focus on equity for Black students in Howard County Public Schools.

In response to her incredible work and commitment to her community, Dr. Parker was invited this year to present at the International Conference on Urban Education in Cancun, Mexico, to discuss her research and the effectiveness of implementing Conscious Discipline practices in her work. We had the opportunity to ask her about this incredible experience.

What is the International Conference on Urban Education?

The International Conference on Urban Education (ICUE) focuses only on urban education. It is a solutions-based, global conference held by The Urban Education Collaborative, housed in the College of Education at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. This year’s conference welcomed attendees from around the globe to Cancun, Mexico, from November 6 to 9, 2024.

Can You Describe the Nature of Your Study and the Basis of Your Presentation?

This study examined teachers’ perceptions of student behaviors and their understanding of how the discipline policy addresses them. It revealed beliefs and rationale that unintentionally result in losing students’ instructional time.

This study brought awareness to teachers and school leaders, the role their perceptions play in their practice, and the impact our daily disciplinary decisions have on our most vulnerable population of students to improve our practice.

What Part Did Conscious Discipline Play in Your Presentation?

My presentation discussed how addressing the School-to-Prison Pipeline phenomenon necessitates a paradigm shift in how schools approach discipline and student support. Educators can create a nurturing environment that promotes social-emotional growth, equity, and academic success by integrating conscious discipline, culturally responsive teaching, and restorative practices. The session aimed to provide educators with the tools and knowledge to implement these strategies effectively, ultimately contributing to dismantling the STPP and fostering a more just and supportive educational system for ALL.

Can you describe your experience at the International Conference on Urban Education (ICUE)?

At the International Conference on Urban Education (ICUE), I engaged with educators, researchers, and policymakers dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion within urban educational settings. I participated in sessions that addressed challenges and innovative practices in urban education, with a strong focus on dismantling barriers for historically marginalized communities. The conference provided an invaluable platform to exchange ideas on culturally responsive teaching, social-emotional learning, and policy reform, enhancing my understanding of implementing impactful, research-driven strategies in diverse classrooms. This experience reinforced my commitment to driving transformative change in urban education.

Dr. Parker’s dedication has driven her 15+ years in education and her current role as a Certified Instructor with Conscious Discipline. She’s earned double master’s degrees in Elementary and Special Education from New York University and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Policy from Florida State University. She also provides programming such as the Freedom School that allows students to learn about promoting social justice through the arts (African drumming, African dance, visual arts, and spoken word), gardening, entrepreneurship, and the importance of self-identification. Dr. Parker is also a proud mom and wife.