Inspired by the mentorship of Tommie Lindsey and the lived practice of Kalyan Ali Balaven, Speaking Truth, Teaching Humanity is a guide to progressive education focused on the whole student—a framework that reminds us that empathy, dignity, and voice are still the highest forms of intelligence.

Speaking Truth, Teaching Humanity is more than a book—it’s a movement toward schools that see every learner as a whole person. At its core is the idea of authentic humanity: teaching not just for test scores, but for dignity, belonging, and moral courage.

Author Kalyan Ali Balaven builds on the legacy of his teacher, Tommie Lindsey, whose nationally recognized speech and debate program at James Logan High School became a beacon of access and excellence. Together, their stories illustrate the best of progressive education, where dialogue, creativity, and justice shape the classroom experience.

The practices and exercises shared here are designed to help educators and leaders embrace whole student education—ensuring that every learner is seen, heard, and known. Whether you are a teacher, a parent, or a community leader, this work is an invitation: to choose humanity in the age of A.I., and to join a lineage of educators who believe that the most enduring form of intelligence is still compassion.