JCRC Speaker Series: Unique Perspectives on Pressing Issues

Falling Behind: How COVID-19 is Exacerbating Educational Disadvantages

The third JCRC Speaker Series panel featured:

•    Dr. Carrie Olson, president of the Denver Public Schools Board of Education, discussed DPS’s first steps when it became clear that in-person schooling was in jeopardy, how it keeps students and employees safe now, and what work remains to be done given the fluid nature of the crisis.

•    Dr. David Bryfman, CEO of the Jewish Education Project, spoke about the Jewish educational sector’s adaptation and the challenges it will likely encounter as the pandemic continues. 

•    Dr. Ryan Ross, associate vice chancellor for student affairs, equity, and inclusion for the Colorado Community College System, spoke about how the ongoing crisis has magnified longstanding and troubling inequities in our public education system.

•    Ms. Staci Zimmerman, Keshet of the Rockies board member, described particular struggle faced by students with special needs and their families in the face of remote learning.

The discussion, which was both wide-ranging and passionate, inspired Dr. Bryfman to say in his concluding remarks, “You know it’s been a good panel when the panelists have learned as well.”