Cultivating Changemakers: How Teachers Defend Democratic Education Today

Jessica Lander and Dr. De’Shawn Washington

November 1, 2025, 8PM


Lander and WashingtonEducation is an essential component of a healthy democracy. Nearly 400 years ago, Massachusetts opened our country’s first public school. But today public education is under threat. Books are being banned, teachers are being prevented from teaching facts, and an increasing number of students are experiencing threats to their safety, identity, and ability to thrive in school. Yet, educators continue to innovate, collaborate, and advocate. Join two award-winning Massachusetts teachers for a discussion about the state of education and learn about innovative and creative approaches to investing in students’ stories, identities, and voices. 

 

Jessica Lander was recognized as 2023 Massachusetts History Teacher of the Year while teaching history and civics to immigrant-origin students at Lowell High School. She is author of Making Americans: Stories of Historic Struggles, New Ideas, and Inspiration in Immigrant Education, awarded the 2024 George Orwell Book Award for Honesty and Clarity in Public Language.

Dr. De’Shawn Washington was named 2024 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year while teaching fourth grade in Lexington. He empowers students to read, dream, and lead. As a national advocate, scholar, and CEO of Cultivating Changemakers LLC, he champions equity-centered literacy and justice-driven education for lasting systemic change.

  • Cary Lectures are free to all, and tickets are not required. We are normally able to accommodate all who wish to attend. In the very rare case where there may not be sufficient seats, preference will be given to Lexington residents. Come early for the best seat!

  • 2025-2026 Speaker Series

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