Abdul Story Jamilah Thompkins Bigelow: A Visionary Educator and Advocate for Equity

Abdul Story Jamilah Thompkins Bigelow, PhD., is an esteemed educator and unwavering advocate for equity in education. Her groundbreaking work has transformed the lives of countless students, particularly those from marginalized communities, and has left an indelible mark on the field of education. Through her unwavering commitment to empowering youth and dismantling systemic barriers, Bigelow has emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

Abdul's Story

by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13685 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	40 pages
Paperback	:	58 pages
Reading age	:	8 - 12 years
Grade level	:	4 - 6
Item Weight	:	2.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.12 x 8 inches

FREE

Early Life and Education

Bigelow's journey began in the vibrant city of Chicago, where she was born and raised. From a tender age, she displayed an insatiable curiosity and a deep compassion for others. Her passion for education ignited early on, as she eagerly immersed herself in books and excelled in her studies.

Bigelow's unwavering determination led her to pursue higher education, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Northern Illinois University. Her academic pursuits continued at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she obtained a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction.

Driven by an unyielding desire to make a meaningful impact, Bigelow embarked on her doctoral studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. There, she delved into the intricate complexities of urban education, focusing her research on the experiences of African American students in predominantly white schools. Her groundbreaking dissertation, "The Pedagogy of Poverty: A Critical Examination of Current Urban Schooling," shed light on the systemic inequities faced by students from low-income backgrounds and offered innovative solutions to address these disparities.

Professional Career

Upon completing her PhD, Bigelow embarked on a distinguished career in education, holding various leadership positions that allowed her to put her knowledge and passion into practice. As the Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning in the Madison Metropolitan School District, she spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at improving student achievement and creating more equitable learning environments.

Bigelow's unwavering dedication to equity extended beyond the classroom, as she actively engaged in policy advocacy and community outreach. She served on the Wisconsin State Superintendent's Council on Educational Equity and Achievement and played a pivotal role in shaping educational policies that addressed the needs of underserved students.

Educational Philosophy

At the heart of Bigelow's educational philosophy lies a deep-seated belief in the inherent potential of all students. She vehemently rejects the deficit-oriented narratives that often plague urban education and instead embraces a strength-based approach that empowers students to recognize and develop their unique talents and abilities.

Bigelow's pedagogy emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive teaching, which recognizes the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students and incorporates their cultural identities into the learning process. By creating inclusive and affirming learning environments, she fosters a sense of belonging and empowers students to see themselves as valued members of the educational community.

Contributions to Educational Equity

Throughout her illustrious career, Bigelow has made significant contributions to the field of educational equity, leaving an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire and guide future generations of educators.

One of her most notable achievements is the development of the Pathways to Success program, which provides comprehensive support services to students from underserved communities to help them succeed in college and beyond. The program offers academic advising, mentoring, and financial assistance, creating a holistic approach to student success.

Bigelow's advocacy for educational equity extends beyond the United States. She has traveled extensively throughout the world, sharing her expertise and collaborating with educators and policymakers to address educational disparities in diverse contexts. Through her work with organizations such as the World Bank and UNESCO, she has played a pivotal role in shaping global educational policies and practices.

Awards and Recognition

Bigelow's unwavering commitment to educational equity has garnered her numerous accolades and awards, including the prestigious James Madison Fellowship and the National Education Association's Horace Mann Award for Distinguished Service to Education. She was also inducted into the International Women's Forum Hall of Fame, a testament to her global impact on education and gender equality.

Personal Life

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Bigelow is a dedicated wife and mother. She credits her family as her unwavering source of support and inspiration. Her husband, Tony Bigelow, is an accomplished educator and author, and together, they have raised three remarkable children who share their passion for making a positive impact on the world.

In her spare time, Bigelow enjoys spending time with her family, reading, writing, and traveling. She is an avid learner and is constantly seeking new knowledge and experiences to enrich her life and her work.

Abdul Story Jamilah Thompkins Bigelow is an exceptional educator and an indomitable champion for educational equity. Her groundbreaking contributions to the field have transformed the lives of countless students, empowered educators, and inspired policymakers to create more just and equitable learning environments.

As an author, speaker, and advocate, Bigelow continues to use her voice and platform to challenge systemic barriers and promote the transformative power of education. Her unwavering belief in the potential of all students and her relentless pursuit of equity will continue to inspire and guide generations to come.

Abdul Story Jamilah Thompkins Bigelow's legacy as a visionary educator and advocate for equity will undoubtedly endure, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who strive to create a more just and equitable world through the transformative power of education.

Abdul's Story

by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13685 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	40 pages
Paperback	:	58 pages
Reading age	:	8 - 12 years
Grade level	:	4 - 6
Item Weight	:	2.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.12 x 8 inches

FREE