Sankofa Educational Consulting LLC
Moving From Standards to Stories
Hello, I am Dr. Charisse Smith
Welcome to Sankofa Educational Consulting LLC!
About Sankofa Educational Consulting LLC
Dr. Smith - Dr. Sankofa
Dr. Smith is an educational speaker, leader, curriculum designer, and instructional coach specializing in inquiry-based Social Studies education. She has trained directly under Dr. S.G. Grant and Dr. John Lee, co-architects of the C3 Framework, and members of the C3 Teachers collaborative,
gaining deep expertise in the Inquiry Design Model (IDM).
Speaking
As a keynote speaker and workshop facilitator, Dr. Smith equips educators with practical strategies for classroom management, reflective practice, and civic engagement that make Inquiry both accessible and sustainable. Through Sankofa Educational Consulting LLC, Dr. Smith offers in-person and virtual learning experiences that blend academic rigor with practical application, empowering educators to tell richer stories of history and prepare students for thoughtful participation in civic life.
Support
Dr. Smith has supported district leaders, curriculum supervisors, and teachers in implementing IDM through professional development, instructional coaching, and curriculum design. Her work emphasizes teaching difficult histories, integrating ELA objectives, and ensuring alignment with state standards while centering equity and cultural responsiveness.
WHAT WE DO
Educational Speaking & Professional Development
Dr. Sankofa Speaking Engagements Include:
- Keynote Addresses
- Professional Development Workshops
- Student Assemblies
- Panel Discussions
- Mistress of Ceremonies
At Sankofa Educational Consulting LLC, we believe that transformative change in education begins with meaningful dialogue and intentional practice. We offer dynamic speaking engagements, professional development sessions, and workshops designed to inspire and equip school districts, organizations, educators, leaders, and decision-makers with the tools to reimagine teaching and learning.
Our Approach
Through the Inquiry Design Model (IDM), we introduce practical, research-based frameworks that spark curiosity and deepen student engagement. Educators learn how to guide students in analyzing primary sources, wrestling with multiple perspectives, and connecting the past to today's civic issues and social justice work.
We also center the Sankofa philosophy—the African principle of "looking back to move forward"—as a guide for meaningful, culturally responsive instruction. This approach honors history while empowering students to become informed, engaged citizens.
What Participants Gain
Together, we address strategies for overcoming fear and hesitation when teaching complex and sensitive histories. Participants develop step-by-step approaches to create thoughtful, age-appropriate, and engaging lessons that don't shy away from difficult truths but instead invite critical thinking and compassionate understanding.
Our Goal
We are committed to sparking reflection, driving innovation, and supporting sustained improvement across learning communities. Every engagement is designed to leave participants energized, equipped, and ready to take action in their classrooms, schools, and districts.