The most important factor in the academic success of any student is the quality of teaching and instruction they receive.
The for-real human connections in the classroom between student and teacher form a foundation to buttress the academic achievement of the entire learning community.
Students don’t care what you know until they know you care.
In his interactive talks and workshops, Hank guides audiences to focus on the human connections in a classroom that creates a hospitable and accountable space where all voices have value.
About Hank
A native of Jamaica, New York, Hank’s passion for learning has always begun by making personal connections with others toward the greater goal of returning to the humanity we all deserve.
The interactive workshops and courses that he leads afford attendees the opportunity to see conflict as an opportunity; to move from an either/or mindset, to one that nurtures a both/and community of learners.
Hank earned his B.S. in Education from Northeastern University, and M. Ed. from Cambridge College. His career of 35 years in the Newton Public Schools in Massachusetts began as an elementary physical education teacher, and concluded as a Middle School Principal when he retired in June, 2009.
Hank is an author, speaker, and anti-racist educator who has received mentoring from internationally recognized scholars including Dr. Peggy McIntosh, Dr. Beverly Tatum, Dr. Jonathan Saphier and renowned diversity trainer Lee Mun Wah. He pays-it-forward to others through interests that have focused on the impact of privilege and racial identity on the academic success of all students.
Hank has been an invited speaker and panelist on many occasions, including:
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The Harvard Law School’s “Passing the Torch: The Past, Present and Future of Inter District School Desegregation”.
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The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development National Convention
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Florida African American Student Association
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UNITY Village, Kansas City, Missouri
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UNITY Church, Melbourne, Florida
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Concerned Citizens Network of Alexandria, Va., Police Department, First Responders and Office of Cultural Arts, and Voices for Virginia Children, Alexandria Va
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The Black Brown and College Bound Conference
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The Ted Bogert Show and Vanessa Elchols COLORBLIND podcasts Orlando, Florida
Hank is passionate about the work he has done for more than forty years in educational settings. He wants to empower fellow educators to make authentic connections with their students for the creation of a culture of belonging that supports the academic achievement of all.
Some of Hank's Talks Include:
"Are you a non-racist or an anti-racist?"
Authentic Conversations About Privilege and Racism.
As our country moves almost a decade beyond the 50th anniversaries of the signing of the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Acts, we as a country continue to grapple with the barriers and obstacles that continue to divide us as a nation. Despite these divisions, it remains critical for us to look forward and establish a new-normal toward achieving equity for all people. In so doing we take a leap of faith and an act of courage to make human connections with others who may be different than ourselves. Unfortunately, the vision for creating communities that are inclusive, respectful, equitable and loving toward ALL, has become blurred, out of focus and no longer appears to be a common goal we share with each other.
This is an invitation for attendees to begin or continue to examine their professional and personal experiences using a lens of privilege and racism. As a result of their engagement, participants will:
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examine their own privileges
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understand the existence of systems of advantage,
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identify the difference between being a non-racist and an anti-racist.
In this way, each will be better equipped to learn and work effectively in a pluralistic society, by improving the multicultural experience for themselves, their colleagues and their students.
The Story of Your Name
Perhaps the most important part of a person’s identity is their name and the story behind it. Pronouncing one’s name correctly (by practicing it when necessary) is an authentic connection with both students and adults. In my experience, when learning, using and sharing the story of their name, students and teachers are afforded the opportunity to be in a learning community that is supportive of their academic achievement and success and growth of everyone.
Participants take with them:
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a genuine interest in acknowledging the uniqueness of each individual
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a fostering of inclusivity by embracing diverse perspectives
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a continued awareness of the importance of trust in building relationships
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a capacity for showing professionalism in leading by example through attention to detail in classroom interactions
Kaepernick and the National Anthem
When Colin Kaepernick took a knee on the sideline during the playing of the National Anthem, he authored a new chapter about peaceful sports protest in the United States. This action, and similar ones that followed, have impacted the dialogue about social justice, and sought solutions that need to be brought into the light.
This interactive workshop will invite participants to share their opinions about Colin Kaepernick and his decision to “take a knee” during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner. Attendees will:
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learn the often unspoken words of the nation's anthem
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learn of the history of protest in American sports and share their personal insights about this history
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reflect on the effectiveness of his efforts and those of others toward the goal of inclusive excellence.
His ability to connect with others on a deeper level made the sessions feel not only educational but resonated with me long after the sessions end. Hank leads through his vision for change and inspires others to do the same.
Jen Danilowski, Professor of Psychology
Seeing Hank facilitate workshops throughout the years has been truly inspiring. His presentations are courageous and thought provoking. I feel privileged to have learned so much from him about race, equality, and pedagogy
Myra Holzer, Professor of Speech
Hank is very knowledgeable and friendly, always motivated to represent other’s thoughts and ideas. He is always eager to know more about other cultures. He is a great educator.
Nilesh Patel, Professor of Mathematics
You've been teaching a long time brother. Thanks for your service. You've touched plenty of young people.
Richard P. Jefferson, Parent of former students
At the heart of his passion is teaching and championing issues related to DEI, Racism and Academic Achievement, Anti-Racist Training Sessions, as well as his work in the Peace and Justice Institute.
Kemp Harris, Musician, Actor, Storyteller, Author, Retired Kindergarten Teacher.
You have always pushed yourself and everyone else (including me) to be the best version of themselves they could be. Today my gratitude goes out to you. Thank you for being you!
Joe Scanlon
Former student and Retail Manager
"Mr. Hank Van Putten Jr was my PE teacher in elementary school in Newton, Massachusetts many many years ago! He made an impact on my life that has always stayed with me. I am in awe of him and admire the work he is doing, especially in the face of the current day obstacles and obstructions."
Lisa Bernard, Former Student and Digital Creator
