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Octavia Taught Me: A Course on Political Predictions and the Upcoming Election

Octavia Taught Me: A Course on Political Predictions and the Upcoming Election

Eagle Rock School (ERS) is more than a place of learning—it's a community where students are empowered to be agents of change. One of the pillars of ERS is our commitment to fostering critical thinking and social responsibility through a unique curriculum, rooted in social justice and liberatory education. A shining example of this commitment is the work of Lashae “Shae” Copeland, ERS’ Societies and Cultures Instructional Specialist, who is passionate about community building, movement work, and shaping the future through education.

Meet “Shae” Copeland: A Visionary Educator

Shae Copeland’s journey to Eagle Rock School reflects her dedication to creating spaces where students, especially Black, Brown, and marginalized students, can think critically about the world and their place in it. Before joining ERS, Shae crafted and led the Summer Freedom School in southern Florida, an intergenerational space where children from ages 5 to 10 explored social justice issues along with caretakers between the ages of 18 - 70. With a background in community research and a history as a 7th-grade history teacher, Dean of Restorative Practices, and a school leader at a Montessori High School in Ocoee, FL. Shae witnessed firsthand the challenges of delivering liberatory education in traditional settings.

Frustrated by the systemic injustices that made meaningful education difficult, Shae found her way to Eagle Rock School. Here, she discovered an environment where she could freely explore innovative and transformative teaching methods. In May, she taught her first class at ERS: “Organizing for Revolutionary Love,” a course that resonated deeply with students of color, guiding them through the exploration of movement work and the legacy of Black and Brown activists. 

“Octavia Taught Me”: A Course Rooted in Future Thinking

One of Shae’s standout courses at Eagle Rock School is titled “Octavia Taught Me,” which draws inspiration from the works of acclaimed science fiction author Octavia Butler. Through the lens of Butler’s Parable of the Sower, set in a dystopian future not far from our own, students are invited to consider the social and political challenges that Butler warned about in 1993 and apply those insights to the present day. With the upcoming election as a focal point, students in this course are asked to ponder their role as engaged global citizens, exploring how elections and political events shape their communities and lives.

This course challenges students to think critically about what might happen if social and political conditions don’t change over the next 30 years. But more importantly, it empowers students to reflect on their ability to shape that future. “Octavia Taught Me” aligns with our mission to engage students in community-centric thinking, exploring solutions to the problems we face today while drawing upon the wisdom passed down by our ancestors. 

In line with our educational philosophy, the class prioritizes hands-on learning, community engagement, and intergenerational collaboration. Students from across the country bring their diverse experiences and perspectives, fostering a rich dialogue that helps them envision what life will look like beyond ERS, and in the next 10 to 15 years. 

Building a Future of Change

At Eagle Rock School, success isn't measured simply by academic achievements but by how students engage with their communities and build meaningful conversations. “Octavia Taught Me” aims to equip students with essential skills, such as research, media literacy, and fact-checking, helping them critically assess the world around them. Students gain the tools to approach the future thoughtfully and with intention, understanding that shaping change is not only a privilege but a responsibility.

As part of the broader ERS curriculum, the course encourages students to examine global issues, such as climate change and political instability, while making connections to their own lives. This reflective process helps students become more engaged global citizens, capable of contributing to larger societal shifts. They explore not only possible dystopian futures but also solutions—how can they, as young leaders, enact change that counters the grim possibilities of Butler’s predictions?

Students leave the course with a sense of purpose, having imagined futures that challenge existing systems of oppression and inequality. By holding space for both radical imagination and data-driven solutions, the course encourages game planning rather than wishful thinking. Whether the future they envision is filled with hope or fear, Shae ensures that students emerge with the knowledge that they can and must shape their futures.

Join the Eagle Rock School Community

At Eagle Rock School, students are given the tools, space, and support to think critically, act purposefully, and build a future that aligns with their values. Shae Copeland’s “Octavia Taught Me” course is just one example of the groundbreaking, future-focused education ERS offers. If you're passionate about making a difference and eager to learn how to shape the world around you, Eagle Rock School could be the place for you.

Take the first step in your journey as a leader and change-maker. Reach out to Eagle Rock School today to learn more and apply!