Shaping Freedom With Lisane Basquiat : How to Shape Legacy Through Education & Empathy With Principal Toria Avila
SHOW NOTES
Principal Toria Avila joins Lisane to talk honestly about what middle school looks like in South LA today — from the pressure of test-driven systems to the emotional work of keeping kids safe and seen. Toria shares the experiences that shaped her, what teachers and parents really need, and small shifts that could make schools work better for kids and communities.
Notable quote
“We could not lower the standard… your struggles were not going to determine the type of education I was going to put in front of you.” — Toria Avila.
Takeaways
Pause: ask your child what they might be carrying emotionally — and actually listen.
Advocate for balanced metrics: push for ways schools recognize creative and social-emotional strengths, not just test scores.
Support teachers and leaders — rest and wellbeing matter for the whole school to thrive.
Learn how to set boundaries without guilt. Join Lisane's next Protect Your Peace Shaping Session today: https://shapingfreedom.com/boundaries-workshop
Notable quote
“We could not lower the standard… your struggles were not going to determine the type of education I was going to put in front of you.” — Toria Avila.
Takeaways
Pause: ask your child what they might be carrying emotionally — and actually listen.
Advocate for balanced metrics: push for ways schools recognize creative and social-emotional strengths, not just test scores.
Support teachers and leaders — rest and wellbeing matter for the whole school to thrive.
Learn how to set boundaries without guilt. Join Lisane's next Protect Your Peace Shaping Session today: https://shapingfreedom.com/boundaries-workshop
Shaping Freedom With Lisane Basquiat
Welcome to Shaping Freedom where we teach you how to create the change you want so you are empowered to author a life story you love to read. I am your host, Lisane Basquiat. Each week I'll speak with inspirational leaders and we'll explore and share practical ways to create extraordinary life experiences!
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