Episode Summary:

Emily Perl Kingsley is renowned for her 45-year career as a writer on Sesame Street, essentially from the show’s beginnings. In this episode, Jeana and Ms Kingsley discuss her remarkable contributions to the groundbreaking TV program’s advances in greater inclusion. Ms Kingsley is known for advocating for disability awareness and working towards improving the way people with disabilities are portrayed in the media, as well as expanding perceptions of individual potential. Additionally Ms Kingsley is the author of the inspirational and widely-published poetic essay "Welcome to Holland” - which she reads for us in this podcast episode. Also she is the author of over 20 children's books, and the many awards for her work include 23 Emmys and numerous nominations, as well as other humanitarian and public service awards.

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Produced by the Saul Zaentz Charitable Foundation.

Emily Kingsley – author:

https://www.emilyperlkingsley.com

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About Jeana Ross:

Jeana Ross is a lifelong educator who believes that early childhood education is a key component of a strong economy at state and national levels. As former Secretary of Alabama’s Department of Early Childhood Education, Jeana led successful efforts to grow the state’s early learning program which earned consecutive recognition as the nation’s best throughout her term. Recently, Jeana was elected to the Alabama House where she intends to prioritize education. In addition, Jeana advises the Saul Zaentz Charitable Foundation on Early Education Policy & Practice regarding its efforts to work with policymakers, nonprofit organizations, funders, and practitioners to support the early education workforce and advocate for increased funding for high-quality early childhood education.