Black Educators Matter: Project 500 Podcast

IG: @DanteFlush 

“We need to address these educational barriers that are stopping our kids outside of school from getting a good education inside of school.”

“What is there to be scared of?” 

Dante Flush, Director of Youth Engagement, says he has the best job in the world as he supports and listens to changemakers every day and works to reject survival mode while engaging in the work. Growing up in a predominantly white conservative town, Dante experienced microaggressions and a sense of isolation, and had to navigate the college process as the first in his family to attend. As a history major turned teacher, he was presented with an awesome new opportunity that allowed him to address challenges outside of school and work to co-create with students.

“Teach young people how to advocate for themselves.” 

Dante's mission extends beyond the classroom, empowering students to address societal challenges. As a former teacher, he recalls the real drama in schools, highlighting the pressures and triggers educators face, especially in Title 1 schools, and the need to actively reject imposter syndrome. Through his advocacy and dedication, Dante embodies the belief that education is not just about academics but also highlighting the ways that students showcase their purpose, power and excellence.

https://utla.net/contacts/cecily-myart-cruz/

“All I knew was Black educators showing us Black excellence on a daily basis.”

In this episode, we had the honor of speaking with Cecily My-art Cruz, a passionate educator and president of United Teachers Los Angeles. With 29 years of experience, Cecily's journey in education has been deeply influenced by her upbringing in Los Angeles, where she was surrounded by Black educators who exemplified excellence and instilled a sense of pride in their students. She draws inspiration from her ancestors (including her father!), leaning on their guidance to navigate her path forward as an activist educator.

“We’ve been doing all of this work. It’s time to take it to the next level.”

Cecily's commitment to her students goes beyond the classroom; she is a fierce advocate for racial justice and equity in education. She emphasizes the importance of representation, stating that "our babies need to see us in these spaces." Through her leadership, she has worked to dismantle harmful systems and create safe environments for all students. Cecily's dedication to her students and community serves as a powerful example of how educators can make a lasting impact by being their authentic selves and advocating for change.

School Principal, Founder EdArchy

“I want to see free kids have free thoughts.”

"In education, we have the power to construct freedom," shares Mr. Rodney Powell, a school principal and founder of EdArchy, as he reflects on his journey and vision for education. His path into education was not conventional, but driven by a deep-rooted desire to be a revolutionary and create meaningful change. Despite not attending an HBCU himself, he recognizes the value and impact they have, particularly in fostering a strong sense of pride and community.

“My journey was meant to be seamlessly integrated with the community.”

Over the last two decades, Mr. Powell has been at the forefront of innovative education, founding schools with African-centered curricula and empowering students to be agents of change. His work extends beyond the classroom, advocating for a paradigm shift in education that prioritizes Black joy, ownership, and freedom. Through EdArchy, he aims to incubate and amplify the ideas of young people, emphasizing the importance of creating communities and spaces where all voices are heard and valued. Mr. Powell's story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of education when grounded in community, empowerment, and liberation… a “villatucian”. 

www.damanharris.com

Bondeducators.org

Book: The Antiracist School Leader

“There have always been people around me that poured into me.”

In this enlightening episode, we dive into the journey of Dr. Daman Harris, an educator, author, and co-director of The Bond Project (located in the Baltimore/DC Metro area). Dr. Harris reflects on his experiences as a Black student in different states, highlighting the profound impact of key moments and individuals in his life (including the significance of the 1975 Peanuts Dictionary). He shares how a chance encounter and wise words from a supervisor led him to discover his true calling in education, despite facing setbacks like losing a full scholarship.

“If you are ready… I got you.”
Throughout the conversation, Dr. Harris emphasizes the importance of unity and collaboration in education, and why he’s excited about the critical mass that’s coming. In a time of book bans, he speaks about the data and how the stagnant demographic hierarchy hasn’t changed. His book, a heartfelt tribute to his school, serves as a beacon for those who recognize the need for change and are willing to challenge the status quo. Dr. Harris's story is a testament to the transformative power of education and mentorship, reminding us all that Black educators are the anchors, the rocks, and the roots for Black students, providing food for their souls, not just food for thought.

https://drdonparker.com/about/

“I absolutely knew what I wanted to do. I knew what I wanted my future to look like."

#Shoutout to the PE Teachers! As a Black male educator, author, speaker, and coach, Dr. Don Parker has carved out a unique path. He’s been able to blend his content expertise, social emotional learning framework and gap closing interventions into meaningful professional development sessions that help educators move beyond survival mode and create environments where all students can be successful. His journey from first generation college student to instructional leader is a testament to the transformative power of education,  mentorship, and prayer.

“Bringing out the best in teachers, so that they can bring out the best in their students.”

Through his work, Dr. Parker emphasizes the importance of restorative practices, relationship building, and recognizing the gifts and assets in every student. For those ready to grow their careers outside of the classroom, he teaches fellow educators how to amplify their impact and income, embodying the belief that each generation should strive to do better than the last. His story is one of resilience and determination, rooted in the belief that with the right support, guidance, and environment every student can reach their full potential (#shoutout to the College Fit discussion!). You can learn more in his new book, “Be the Driving Force: Leading Your School on the Road to Equity.” 

https://cohfs.org/

“I became energized by teaching children how to learn, how to think.”

Dr. Tracee Perryman, CEO/Co-Founder of Center of Hope Family Services, shares her journey and passion for education. Raised in a family deeply rooted in education, with a grandfather who was an educator during Jim Crow and a mother with over 30 years of experience, her work is designed to be an intentional and supplemental approach to education. Her belief in self-reliance and the empowerment of students is reflected in her father’s quote, "You will not depend on another system or structure to feed you education." Despite facing challenges, including being the only Black student in some of her classes, Dr. Perryman's love for learning and teaching has only grown over the years.

“Inequities in funding… creates inequity in access.”

Driven by a desire to create opportunities for every student to feel smart, Dr. Perryman started her work right out of high school, beginning in a church fellowship hall. She believes that education disparities are a social justice issue, inspiring her to pursue higher education to be more effective in her interventions and learning about legislation that impacts education. She discusses barriers to entry in the field, class and cultural differences about how we view choice, and emphasizes the importance of mentor educators to help you refine and elevate your work. 

https://carlosjohnson.org/

"True educating will not start, can not start, until you’ve created an environment for healthy relationships to foster.”

Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, with over two decades of experience, Coach Carlos Johnson adeptly bridges the worlds of business and education, advocating for having all voices at the table with a sense of empathy and action. From curriculum design to facilitating professional development, Coach Carlos empowers administrators and leaders to understand the data that impacts their student culture, consider the brain based science when examining student behavior, and always remember the three R’s: Recruit. Retain. Respond.

“It’s war time.”
Coach Carlos is a business man that understands education, and an educator that understands business. When reflecting on the state of education, he discusses the longitudinal data and the impact of Title IX. His journey into education was shaped by the era of No Child Left Behind and the rise of charter schools, which encouraged districts to adopt innovative approaches. Recognizing the impact of his own African American female teachers (and the lack of Black male educators), he stresses the importance of diverse representation in classrooms. Coach Carlos's advice to first-year educators is to build healthy performance-based relationships and he challenges educators to adopt a coaching mindset.

www.youtube.com/@carolynsebron5567

"Our lives are not restricted to the borders of this country."

Step into the vibrant world of Dr. Carolyn Sebron, a renowned opera singer and dedicated educator, as she unveils the transformative power of music and education. Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, Carolyn's journey is marked by a deep-rooted passion for the arts and an unwavering commitment to amplifying Black voices and histories. Her career trajectory, shaped by pivotal moments of discovery, highlights the importance of being prepared for opportunities, the impact of representation and mentorship in guiding Black professionals through the intricacies of academia and the arts.

"It has been appropriated and weaponized."

What is “the white man’s music”? Carolyn's advocacy extends beyond the stage as she delves into the critical need for a balanced, truthful education that acknowledges and celebrates Black history and contributions. As a lifelong learner, Carolyn invites listeners to engage in meaningful dialogue about history, intellectual development, and the transformative role of the arts in shaping a more inclusive and vibrant society. Her ultimate goal is to be the Oprah Winfrey of Opera Music, and as she stated, all things are within the realm of possibility. Tune in! 

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-teacher-matters/id1542560174

"The essence of humanity…"

#Shoutout to the power of our stories. Abdel Shakur is an English teacher with over 15 years of experience, and is the host of the Black Teacher Matters podcast. As he reflects on his educational voyage, he realizes the tremendous impact Black educators made on his life. He never thought about becoming a teacher, until a role as a community liaison led him to pursue a career in the classroom. 

“You don’t have to do it all by yourself.”

Abdel's ethos revolves around empowering communities, acknowledging the essential truth that Black children desire to learn and establish new roles within the educational setting. He advocates for educators to forge meaningful connections with students, inspired by witnessing a teacher with The Genius Movement philosophy. His mentor emphasizes holding the innocence of children, and his love of writing led him to begin sharing stories. Through his podcast, Black Teacher Matters, Abdel amplifies the voices and experiences of educators, connecting their journeys with his own.

Storytime Anytime 4U

"School was part of our family DNA."

This week, we engage with Ms. Cynthia Cobb, a nontraditional guest with a rich background in human resources and training and development. Through reflecting on her educational experiences, both inside and outside of the home, Cynthia shares why she is an education advocate with a passion for reading and access to books. With a deep-rooted appreciation for the importance of representation, she emphasizes the significance of seeing someone who looks like oneself in the educational and professional environments.

"I’m making myself available for those who are coming up behind me… or who might be right beside me now…"

As Cynthia reflects on her journey, she shares crucial moments from her transition from a career in engineering into human resources and training. Along her career path, Cynthia discovered a passion for supporting colleagues in navigating race and fostering authentic connections in the workplace. Through her podcast, Storytime Anytime 4U, Cynthia continues her mission of advocating for access to books, offering a platform for children’s stories that inspire, entertain, and educate listeners. 

Dr. Asia Lyons

CEO, Lyons Educational Consulting

Co-Host, The Exit Interview Podcast

Co-Facilitator, Black Educator Wellness Cohort

“Our stories need to be shared, our perspectives need to be shared. We belong in all places.”

In this week’s compelling episode, we speak with Dr. Asia Lyons, CEO of Lyons Educational Consulting, co-facilitator of the Black Educator Wellness Cohort, and co-host of The Exit Interview Podcast. With experiences spanning Detroit to Denver, Dr. Lyons shares her journey, from attending a gifted high school and navigating failure in college, to shedding light on the critical role of community colleges and nontraditional pathways into education (#shoutout to those bus routes!). 

“You should think about being a teacher…”

Despite encountering academic and professional setbacks, including experiencing bullying and lack of administrative support, Dr. Lyons remained steadfast in her commitment to the field of education. She discusses the prevalence of white supremacy culture within the system and the importance of addressing racial battle fatigue. With only 4% of Colorado's teachers being Black, Dr. Lyons advocates for intentional efforts in both recruiting and retaining Black educators, emphasizing the importance of finding one's voice while prioritizing mental health. As she encourages listeners to explore The Exit Interview Podcast and engage with the Black Educator Wellness Cohort, Dr. Lyons leaves us with valuable advice on finding a supportive community focused on wellness and healing within the field. 

www.youngladiesatalltimes.com

Assistant Principal, Nonprofit Founder and President, Elementary School Teacher, STEAM Instructional Coach

"The education system is designed for us to fail."

Embark on a transformative journey with Ms. Sherri Simmons, an educational leader and founder of a nonprofit, as she unpacks the challenges and triumphs within the education system. With 18 years of experience, Sherri underscores the critical need for representation for Black children in her district, where she serves as an administrator. Born and raised in Chicago, her educational trajectory—from a classroom teacher to a STEAM Instructional Coach to administrator—mirrors her commitment to empowering young minds. Sherri's poignant insights reveal the disheartening impact of school closures, standardized testing disparities and the school-to-prison pipeline, echoing her observation that the system is designed for failure.

"I believe in saying thank you… I appreciate you."

In the second part of our exploration, Sherri sheds light on the systemic challenges and historical disparities faced by students of color in education. She advocates for celebration and Black jubilation within the education community, emphasizing the need to appreciate and uplift each other. Sherri's personal growth journey—from an extroverted introvert to a trusted space for colleagues and nonprofit founder and president—reflects her commitment to creating a culture of appreciation and impact. Join us as Ms. Sherri Simmons shares her passion to enhance the educational landscape in Chicago and unwavering dedication to empower the next generation of young ladies. 

https://www.amazon.com/Hacking-Culturally-Inclusive-Teaching-Anti-racist/dp/1956512306

https://www.instagram.com/becoming.dr.booker/

"We’re going to co-create together"

In this week’s compelling episode, we speak with Kendra Nalubega-Booker, as she takes us on a transformative journey from Illinois to Africa. Born in Rwanda and raised in Uganda, Kendra faced the impact of colonialism, attending Muslim school, boarding school, day school, and an international school prior to moving to the U.S.. Once in Illinois, her transition included repeating freshman year and navigating English Language Learner (ELL) classes, highlighting the challenges Immigrant families endure while navigating the educational system. 

"Bad things happened so that I could be part of the solution."

Kendra's journey unfolds as she shares her challenges in advocating for herself due to her immigrant background. A linguistics major, she researched language assessments in the Black community, recognizing the impact of language in education. Learning what it meant to be Black in the U.S. became a transformative exchange of knowledge for her. Motivated to be part of the solution, Kendra emphasizes the need to change language use in learning, aiming for better opportunities for the next generation. Empathy and understanding form the foundation of her work with students, and she actively advocates for immigrant children and ensuring accessible resources for different immigrant groups. Her book, "Hacking Culturally Inclusive Teaching," explores anti-racist lessons to improve equity in education, delving into intersectionality and prompting critical considerations for educators. Join us in this episode as we highlight Kendra Nalubega-Booker's journey to becoming Dr. Booker.

https://www.instagram.com/donofriend/

“Kids need people to invest in them so they can learn to invest in themselves.”

Oh the joys of a healing journey. This episode, we are joined by Mr. Donovan Taylor Hall, affectionately known as Donofriend. After a tumultuous educational experience in Virginia, he had a life changing encounter with a Black educator that changed his perspective on what was possible for his life. As he continues to explore who he wants to be and how he wants to show up in the world, he thinks about the experience of Black students and the tools they have in school. Through the creation of his public persona, he hopes to help everyone understand the vision. He wants to be an accessible resource for students, especially kids who struggle that may not have the language or ability to ask for help or support. 

“How do you feel? Do you feel good, do you feel safe?”

Thinking about his experience as a positive school climate coordinator, he’s reflecting on some observations on education, and these systems are working as designed, leading to kids feeling bad about themselves. As a non-traditional educator, he has a transformative energy in how he approaches the work, and is careful not to perpetuate harmful beliefs or encourage harmful behaviors on Black students. Join us as he talks about teaching from a place of love, the happy tears he’s cried, and why care is the foundation of learning.

When Brown Girls Lead - https://www.nadiabennett.com/

"I believe when more Black and Brown educators are given the opportunity to lead, schools in communities of color thrive."

In this impactful episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Nadia Bennett, a dedicated School Turnaround Strategist and the visionary founder of When Brown Girls Lead. Nadia's journey in education is underscored by her unwavering belief in the transformative power of Black and Brown educators. She recognizes that when they are given the opportunity to lead, schools in communities of color flourish, and every Black child deserves to witness the manifestation of their own future. Her inspiration to make a difference in education came from a deeply personal tragedy, the loss of her cousin. She was determined to keep as many Black men out of graveyards and jails as possible, ensuring that the world could see their brilliance. As she aptly puts it, when thinking of the roles Black educators play… "We will go to the ends of the earth for our children."

"Rest, don’t quit.... Stay the course."

Nadia's rich experience as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, combined with her tenure as the Executive Director of Schools, illustrates her unwavering commitment to impacting education. She's been instrumental in turning around schools in Philadelphia and New Jersey, with the most profound impact coming from the children she served. Nadia highlights the historical significance of Black educators in the broader legacy of Black people, acknowledging the adversity they've faced, from the impact of Brown v. Board of Education to generations of Black educators systematically removed from educating their own communities. Her insights on addressing the opportunity gap versus the achievement gap and the importance of unconscious bias are thought-provoking. Beyond her professional career, attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) has been a source of pride and joy. Join us in this episode as Nadia Bennett shares her incredible journey on her mission to empower Black and Brown educators.

https://www.balancedblackeducator.com/

"Black educators are more than just teachers… they are like family."

In this enlightening podcast episode, we had the honor of conversing with Dr. Siobhan Flowers, a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Higher Ed Professor, who has made it her mission to help Black educators manage and maintain their emotional health and wellness. Dr. Flowers' journey began in the K-12 space, and she never forgot the powerful impact educators can have, especially those who serve as more than just teachers – they become like family. Her experience in a "school within a school" environment, where representation and diversity were lacking, shaped her understanding of the profound influence educators have on students. She recalls her own high school counselor's limitations when it came to college guidance, sparking her passion to bridge the gaps, academically, socially, and emotionally.

"Teachers have more power than they realize."

Dr. Flowers' path led her to establish a therapy and coaching practice centered on mental and emotional wellness, emphasizing the mind/body connection. Her unique background, growing up in a military family and starting her career in journalism, has fueled her distinctive approach to education. Dr. Flowers recognizes the value of a two-year university and holds multiple advanced degrees in communications and counseling. Her advice to Black educators facing challenges teaching a curriculum that omits history is not just to keep history alive but to find innovative ways to ensure its continued significance. Join us in this episode as Dr. Siobhan Flowers shares her insights, her commitment to representation, and her journey of promoting emotional health and wellness in the education space. Her holistic approach to stress management and well-being highlights the power of intentionality in the field of education.

https://www.youngblackscholar.com/

Elementary School Math Instructional Coach, 4th Grade Math and Science

"In a matter of moments, you can change the trajectory of a student’s life with the power of your words."

In this episode, we introduce you to the remarkable Mr. Eugene Banks, an educator with a commitment to building connection while teaching. His educational journey was shaped by a lack of representation in textbooks, leading him to believe that white students were academically superior. After overhearing a teacher tell his mother that he could rise to any occasion, he believed her, and it changed his perspective on education and what he could accomplish.

"We're trying to reset the system."

As a career changer who prayed for guidance, Eugene's passion is to repair the trauma and create safe spaces for ALL students to learn. This extends beyond the classroom. He is the visionary founder of Young Black Scholar and the author of "Young Black Boy" and "Young Black Girl" books, works designed to encourage Black and Brown students. His dedication is further exemplified by his nonprofit initiative, "Competitive By Nature," a fusion of fitness and community service activities. Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the journey and mission of Mr. Eugene Banks, a tireless educator and advocate for transformative education. For more insights into his impactful work and initiatives, visit YoungBlackScholar.com.

https://blackteachersconnect.co.uk/

"Become a teacher and conquer the world."

In this week's insightful episode, we sat down with Rhia Gibbs, an accomplished educational consultant with a background in sociology and criminology. Rhia's educational journey was guided by a powerful piece of advice from one of her Black teachers: "Become a teacher and conquer the world." Despite experiencing a rebellious phase, she was reminded that she could do better. Throughout her schooling, Rhia encountered just two Black teachers which underscored her mission to elevate educators.

"Creating a community for Black teachers."

Rhia's organization, Black Teachers Connect, embodies her unwavering goal to impact and empower teachers while fostering a vibrant community. Rhia emphasizes the need to address traumatic incidents in schools, like the unjust strip-search of a teenage girl. Reflecting on George Floyd's global impact, Rhia underscores the importance of acknowledging issues within the UK's own borders. Despite some progress, she recognizes the ongoing struggle for students within the system to envision themselves reaching the pinnacle of success. With only 2% of UK teachers being Black/African/Black Caribbean, Rhia's Black Teachers Connect offers a much-needed network for Black educators—a place to excel, share wisdom, connect, and have fun. Join us in this episode as Rhia Gibbs continues her journey of building a vibrant and empowering community for Black teachers in the UK.

I Can Dream Center

Founder, Executive Director, Author

Author: Benches in the Bathroom: Leading a Physically, Emotionally, and Socially Safe School Culture

"Err on the side of children."

In this week's episode, we had the honor of interviewing Dr. Evisha Ford, a 20-year veteran educator whose wisdom shines through her dedication to students. Dr. Ford's mantra, "Err on the side of children," encapsulates her lifelong commitment to putting students first, especially those with disabilities. She urges us to ask more questions, emphasizing that it's better to have questions than answers. As a social worker, she has honed her ability to discern the environmental factors affecting a person's success, guiding her remarkable journey.

"Creating an organizational culture of love and respect… it’s the vibe."

Dr. Ford's impactful work extends to creating the "I Can Dream Center," a therapeutic school serving students with disabilities, celebrating its 10th-year gala this October. She advocates passionately for self-care among educators, fostering safe spaces for teachers to support vulnerable students. Dr. Ford's episode delves into issues like over-diagnosis and overrepresentation of Black boys in special education spaces, highlighting the evolving landscape of special education. Her story and values inspire us to ask great questions, spark ideas, and cultivate a culture of love and respect in education, ultimately leaving a profound imprint on the lives of students and communities.

“Find the oldest person in your family and ask them questions…”
In the 22 years since creating Black History Walks, he’s realized the massive deprivation of Black people being educated about their history, and this mass miseducation is perpetuated by colonialism and racism. In spite of the disappointing climate, there is still joy to be found in Saturday Schools, adult students having eye opening moments (check out the “why their history is important” section in his newsletter), and why Black economic independence and Black education independence are critical for the future.

Read our latest book, 'Black History Walks in London Vol 1' HERE

For our Pearson GCSE History school text book click HERE

Walks, talks, films, bus tours, river cruise on African history all year long

https://www.facebook.com/blackhistorywalks

https://www.youtube.com/blackhistorywalks

https://twitter.com/blackhistwalker

Little Leaders Learning Academy

Leaders and Legends Performing Arts Academy

“You have to know the kids to get through…”

From an early age, Tiffany Ford developed a passion for school as she watched her mother work as an educator. Her diverse, well rounded educational experiences prepared her for a career in early education, but a December graduation date steered her into social work. This professional experience opened her eyes to the other side of education, and the birth of her daughter inspired her to open Little Leaders Learning Academy in Philadelphia.

“You learn a lot about yourself when you’re responsible for a large group of people…”

In spite of the disservice of testing and discouraging systems within education, Tiffany is intentional about the culture she creates within her facility. It’s about the power of the village, the joy of award ceremonies and integrating arts into the curriculum. After working through the pandemic, she’s able to share some leadership lessons and encourages training, training, training, and recommends that ALL educators find a mentor.

My Very Own Library

Youtube: My Very Own Library

“Seeing yourself… We are who we waiting for… we all we got.”

With 28 years under his belt and after wearing many different hats, Dr. Duane Davis takes us to school on the nuances and context of the P-20 landscape, school choice, and the grand experiment of education. As a Black male educator that’s taught just about everything, he’s learned the value of time, and the power educators have to make their students feel seen. With deep roots in Chicago, he reflects on doing time at Catholic school, “Teachers for Chicago”, and how being a lover of stories led him into his dream job.

“We put a lot of pressure on schools to be the social safety net…”

“We in trouble…”... But… how did we get here? Dr. Davis breaks down the impact of Brown V. Board of Education, the problematic rhetoric regarding the pandemic, and the critical services that schools provide to the community. In spite of the challenges, Duane finds joy in connecting students with books, celebrating graduations (including his own! #MamaIMadeIt!!), establishing collaborative partnerships and advocating for every single human that walks into the building. He’s Cultivating Genius (one of his recommended texts) and focusing on joy, and is encouraging everybody, but especially Black men in education, to create space to do the same.

Laying the Foundation, Brick by Brick.

Khadijah Butler believes in the power of investing in the lives of Black and Brown youth, and does that each day via the Craig D. Butler Scholarship Foundation. With the desire to pay it forward, while giving it back, Khadijah is focused on providing educational opportunities for Black students to escape poverty in Philly.

“Why are these things happening?”

As a Kinesiology major who was not traditionally involved in education, it was the tragic murder of her father that led Khadijah to create the scholarship foundation. Since the January 2020 launch, Khadijah has developed an incredible affinity for educators and school based staff. Moving through the grief and trauma of loss, she speaks on preserving the legacy of her father, providing a solution towards the education gap, and changing the narrative, highlighting Black excellence coming out of Philly.

www.teachfromdehart.org

“My mom tells me that I’m blessed with a burden.”

Cam McKennedy has been teaching for 2 years, speaks with the wisdom of a seasoned educator, and is already making an impact on his community through educational entrepreneurship. He shares how his pursuit of basketball led him to meet his mentor, establish a career in middle school math and science, and the lessons he’s translated from the court into the classroom.

“How do I create opportunities for every kid?”

The parents (“He’s a Black teacher!”), the students (“what you taught me” email) and his colleagues have all shared how his presence has impacted their educational experience. His individual emphasis on connectedness and relationships continues as he co-founds Teach From DeHart Academy. Their transformational model focuses on intentionality with students and parents, creating communities of confidence.

www.boldleadershipconsultants.com

This special speaker series is brought to you by the Alpha Theta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, as part of the “Go-to-High School, Go-to-College” initiative. Through this series, we will celebrate the impact and legacy of four Alpha educators.

"I pride myself on all my kids being connected with me… but there is a certain connection that I just can't deny, and I won't deny, when it comes to kids of color."

#Shoutout to the impact that mentors can make on our lives… especially the mentor that tapped a young Carlos Grant on the shoulder and asked him to consider becoming a teacher. Today, we are joined by Dr. Grant, as he reflects on his journey throughout education. He speaks on his dynamic K-12 school experiences, the origin story of his teaching career, and the number one thing that makes his job exciting.

Dr. Grant acknowledges that the system needs to undergo some fundamental changes, but he is inspired by the great educators around him and how they continue to impact the world.

www.urepabroad.com

“Black educators matter because it allows us to control our own narratives.”

Shawntia Key was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. She attended public school until 7th grade as a straight A student. When she started 8th grade at a White school, she was said to be academically behind. She continued forward, thanks to the advocacy of her family, but was labeled as having a learning disability for the remainder of her time there, although she made great grades in those classes. In college she continued to earn straight A’s. She attended Hiram College to learn Japanese but it wasn’t offered the year she attended. She rallied up advisors and support around campus to create her own major, International Education. Lesson of the Day: “Don’t take no for an answer. You can always ask.”

“...Media plays a huge part... A lot of times, I’m the first Black person some of these students have ever, ever seen - may ever see - in their lives… And then you have some white people who aren't allies telling them who we are…Who are they going to believe? Who’s there to tell them otherwise?”

Shawntia started her international studies in Japan for a semester, and then China, where she also got her Master’s degree. She was greatly impacted by teaching young students who were excited to learn about her as an American and African American. Her presence as a Black woman was enlightening, appreciated, and the source of intrigue. These experiences inspired her to encourage other Black students to study abroad. Shawntia founded URep Abroad. What started as a YouTube channel evolved into an organization that empowers leaders and educators to support the un- and under-represented voices in education. They provide a space to exchange stories, share resources and gain professional opportunities.

You can learn more about URep Abroad at www.urepabroad.com and URep Abroad on LinkedIn and Facebook. You can also follow Dr. Shawntia Key on LinkedIn.

www.kdslglobal.com

www.aieloc.org - Association of International Educators & Leaders of Color

“When I think of why Black Educators matter,... I think about representation, …voice, … those that are challenging a system, the revolutionaries that will call out and call in to whoever’s writing curriculum and doing all of that work.”

Born and raised in Flint, MI, Kevin Simpson is very familiar with the Tale of Two Flints. When his family moved to a white part of town, he experienced more diversity amongst students and was exposed to a plethora of opportunities throughout the city. From an early age, his mom taught him to advocate for himself. He recalls finding out some students with lower scores were enrolled in Algebra. When he went to enroll, a teacher told him that he couldn’t do math. After being exposed to education through a student coordinator position, he went on to double major at Michigan State in Social Policy and Elementary Education. He was later certified to teach math. Well done for someone who can’t do math.

“When we talk about TikTok and Snapchat, are they bringing that data in?... That’s something that should be included in planning. They [the students] should see themselves in plans.”

Kevin is all about representation, exposure and advocacy. When it’s said Black students aren’t doing well in literature, math and science, he wants to know who’s in front of our scholars? Are they seeing themselves reflected in the material? When it’s said there’s a shortage of Black men in education, he wants to know what are their experiences that make them not want to teach? With exposure to the opportunities in international employment, Kevin stepped out, taught and created a business overseas, and has advocated for Black educators around the globe. The Association of International Educators and Leaders of Color is dedicated to amplifying the work and honing in on advocacy, learning and research.

You can learn more about Kevin’s company, KDSL Global, at www.kdslglobal.com, on Twitter @globalkdsl, and on Facebook at KDSL Global.

You can learn more about The Association of International Educators and Leaders of Color at www.aieloc.org and on Facebook at AIELOC.

https://www.abroadineducation.com/

https://www.instagram.com/abroad_in_ed/

“Black teachers are an endangered species and we’re at risk of being eliminated.” - Beverly Cole (1986)

Born and raised in Alton, IL, Tiffany Smith’s humble beginnings started in the projects. When they moved into a house, she recalls a close knit, protected Black community. Later she witnessed White flight, although race wasn’t a prominent factor for her growing up. In fourth grade, she recalls a teacher that took a liking to her and would take her home to play with her daughter. In high school, Tiffany was a regular teenager, but she realized she wanted out of Alton. Northern Illinois University was her ticket out! She didn’t know what she wanted to major in but after babysitting her twin cousins, she realized she loved kids and early education was the way to go.

“Live your life by design and not default.”

From humble beginnings to teaching abroad, Tiffany spent 10 years in early education, teaching in IL, MN, Morocco and Abu Dhabi! She’s now getting her PhD in Organization Development Policy & Development asking how we can keep African American teachers in education. She’s still developing her role in this space but envisions contract work partnering with schools in the recruiting, retention and restoration of Black educators. In her experience abroad, she enjoyed the shared sense of identity amongst the many shades of melanated people, and how they connected because of their differences. She wonders of a future where we don’t have to think about race. Tiffany hosts a podcast, “Abroad in Education”, speaking with African American EdPats about their experiences working internationally.

Check out (A)broad in Education online at abroadineducation.com, Instagram & Twitter Abroad_In_Ed, and Abroad in Education on Facebook.

West Instructional Services

1st grade teacher (16 years), Reading Intervention

“You don’t know if you don’t know.”

Dr. Wycondia West began as a 1st Grade Teacher, transitioned into tutoring and after building the confidence to bet on herself, launched West Instructional Services. Over the course of her impressive career, she has shifted from early childhood education, to supporting students for ACT and college readiness, and now providing professional development for the teachers, giving them the tools they need to support all students.

“Do what you can with what you have.”

Although she had a great mix of diverse teachers growing up, a young Wycondia didn’t know the history of her community, and the close connection to Africatown. Dr. West speaks on the freedom she felt after launching her company (although, entrepreneurship ain’t for the faint of heart), connecting the dots for students as they face struggles and a message for entrepreneurial educators. Stay with your gift, find your niche… and remember, “If you can solve a problem, you got a business.”