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IEPs, Bias & Braids: What Schools Need to Understand About Our Kids

When Jebeh Edmunds walked into the studio, I could already feel the weight of the wisdom she carries. Eighteen years in the classroom, a mother of two, a cultural consultant, and a voice for representation in education - Jebeh has lived what so many of our families are navigating right now.


This conversation was about more than grades, test scores, or school policies. It was about how we, as parents and community members, can stay involved and advocate for our children, especially when bias, stigma, or even CPS cases are part of the story.


Jebeh reminded us of something so simple yet so powerful: stay connected. Ask your child different questions after school - not just “How was your day?” but “What made you smile today?” or “What was hard for you?” That shift opens a door for honesty. And she stressed the importance of emailing teachers regularly, even just to check in. Those small touches send a message: I’m here. I’m paying attention.


We also dug into IEPs - what they are, how they’re developed, and what parents should know. Jebeh broke it down clearly: an IEP is a legal document, created by a team of teachers, specialists, administrators, and parents. It isn’t something that happens overnight, and parents always have the final say. That reminder is critical - you are the expert of your child.


What struck me deeply was Jebeh's honesty about unconscious bias in schools. She named the reality that too often, children of color are seen through the lens of stereotypes, sibling reputations, or cultural misunderstanding. Something as simple as a child’s hair being tender after braids can be documented as “neglect” instead of understood as cultural reality. And parents, especially Black parents, can feel the sting of being the last to know when a school has already been making decisions.


Her advice was both practical and empowering: document everything, check those emails and texts (even the ones that fall into spam), and bring in advocates when you can’t be there. And above all, show your face. Representation in those school hallways matters - not only for your child but for the teachers and peers who need to see our families present, visible, and invested.


What I loved most was Jebeh's encouragement to immigrant and first-generation families: don’t go alone. Connect with cultural communities, professors, or mentors who have walked this road. Let them sit with you in meetings. Let them translate the system so you don’t feel invisible inside it.


This conversation reminded me that education is not just about academics - it’s about dignity, representation, and making sure our children are truly seen.


If this conversation with Jebeh stirred something in you, don’t let it pass by. Share this episode with another parent, especially one who may feel unseen in the school system.

“Unconscious bias is real. We must check our assumptions and see every child with fresh eyes.”

⏱ Chapter Markers

00:00 – Introducing Jebeh Edmunds: educator, cultural consultant, and mother

02:00 – The power of daily parent-child check-ins

04:00 – Understanding IEPs: what parents should know

07:00 – Academic vs. behavioral concerns and the school’s role

09:00 – How parents can evaluate schools and request transfers

11:00 – Showing up during CPS or challenging circumstances

14:00 – Chronic illness, attendance, and protecting against neglect accusations

17:00 – Red flags parents often overlook in school communication

22:00 – Cultural misunderstandings, representation, and bias in classrooms

26:00 – How parents can push for change without burning bridges

29:00 – Advocacy for immigrant and first-generation families

30:00 – Jebeh's final encouragements and upcoming book release

Weekly Reflection

When was the last time you showed up - really showed up - for your child’s education? What small shift could you make this week to remind your child (and their teachers) that you are present and paying attention?

Connect with Jebeh Edmunds

Book (Fall 2025): Orange Blossom

Watch & Listen

Stay Connected with Divine Konnections

Instagram: @divine_konnections_inc

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