Educational Connections’ Post

Are our teachers OK? Are our students OK? I recently heard Linda Darling-Hammond and Pedro A. Noguera, Ph.D., speak at a conference about the critical role Black educators play in our schools. They shared powerful insights about how Black teachers not only affirm the identity of Black students but also help white students understand and embrace diversity. It makes perfect sense. Yet, the reality doesn’t. "Black teachers make up only 7% of the profession, leaving many to navigate the burden of being one of the few in predominantly white work environments—on top of the growing challenges of burnout, larger class sizes, and stretched resources." It’s clear: the system isn’t built to sustain these incredible educators, and that needs to change. Their presence matters—for students, for schools, and for the future of education. Let's help ALL educators thrive together! Thriving Students Collective #TeacherWellness #RepresentationMatters #SupportBlackEducators https://lnkd.in/dzgKFAwc

🚀 Transforming Education: The Crucial Role of Black Principals In an enlightening op-ed for The Hechinger Report, "Black principals play a key role in transforming education. We need more of them," Dr. Phelton Moss reflects on the indispensable role that Black principals play in reshaping our education system. Black principals are instrumental in developing Black teachers, who, in turn, empower students of Color. Yet, only 10% of principals are Black -- highlighting a significant disparity that needs addressing. In his article, Dr. Moss advocates for the importance of engaging Black principals through targeted strategies to build more equitable schools and improve educational outcomes for all students. Read and share the article to support the call for more Black principals in our schools: https://lnkd.in/ekMAiWZk

🌍 Why Diversity and Inclusion in Education Starts with Black History 🌍 As schools strive to create truly inclusive environments, there’s no better time to reflect on how we’re teaching the next generation about diverse histories and cultures. That’s where KBH Classroom comes in — a platform designed to bring black history to the forefront of learning and provide schools with the resources to teach it year-round, not just during Black History Month. 🎓 Why is this necessary? Education should reflect the diversity of our society. However, many curriculums still overlook key aspects of black history, which means students miss out on understanding the full picture of our collective past. KBH Classroom aims to change this by offering interactive, curriculum-aligned lessons that educate, inspire, and foster cultural awareness. ✨ Through our peer-to-peer approach — led by our 8-year-old teacher — and engaging content, students not only learn black history but are also empowered to teach each other, building an inclusive and collaborative learning environment. Diversity in education is more than a goal, it's a necessity. KBH Classroom is helping schools take that important step toward a more inclusive future. Schools can explore our platform with a free trial or dive in with the special Black History Month offer: 50% off with code BLACKHISTORY50. Let's make Black history a part of everyday learning. Learn more at www.kbhclassroom.com #Education #DiversityAndInclusion #BlackHistory #EdTech #InclusiveLearning

Black Boys Thrive with Black Educators: New Study Highlights Importance of Representation✊🏾 #BlackExcellence A recent study shows Black boys in special education perform significantly better when they have Black teachers! This research underscores the power of representation and the positive impact it has on student success. Why it matters: Black students often face implicit bias in the classroom. Having Black educators can create a more supportive and culturally affirming learning environment. Spread the word! Share this post and let's celebrate the importance of Black educators in our schools. #BlackEducatorsMatter #RepresentationMatters #EducationEquity https://lnkd.in/eSYx5_8Y

WEBINAR: Are We Recruiting Black Teachers Into A Burning Building? The Necessary Steps for Effective Recruitment and Retention with Sharif el-Mekki. Join us on June 5, 3:00-4:00 PM EST. Eurocentric teaching methods are common in American education, but Black communities have their own effective teaching styles rooted in their cultural norms. Unfortunately, these practices are often overlooked in predominantly white educational settings. However, if schools and districts embraced Black instructional methods, we would likely see better results for students and teachers alike. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gu4gZxPt

Exciting times at the 2024 Black Men in Education Convening hosted by the Center for Black Educator Development. Over 1,000 educators came together ready to learn and share insights. Thanks to the insightful contributions of speakers like Dr. Angela Davis and Ms. Joyce Abbott, we now have a wealth of knowledge to unpack and reflect on. Our very own, Gabrielle Monteiro Barnes, M.Ed, along with Tim Bieser, and Raymond Fields, Jr. presented on "Harnessing EdTech for the Recruitment and Retention of Black Male Educators". The presentation included the results of a pilot program assessing the impact of test prep support for future teachers in two of our partner states: North and South Carolina. This initiative was in partnership with Study.com and ETS Praxis. Did you attend #BMEC2024? Share your key takeaways! 📸 Video Clip credit: Center for Black Educator Development featuring Dr. Angela Davis

In a profession that shapes the minds of our future, the representation and experiences of Black teachers matter now more than ever. Diana Lambert's article sheds light on the journey of Black educators and how it is not just about the obstacles they face, from biases to isolation, but also about their unparalleled impact on students of all backgrounds. The truth is we NEED diversity in ALL classrooms, schools and communities. Research consistently shows that teachers of color bring invaluable perspectives, reduce disciplinary issues, and boost academic performance, particularly for students of color. Yet, despite their critical role, the pathway to becoming and remaining a teacher is fraught with barriers for many aspiring Black educators. From the high cost of teacher preparation to a lack of support and mentorship, these challenges not only hinder the recruitment of Black teachers but also contribute to their higher turnover rates. It's a cycle that begs for intervention. How can we, as a community, support the recruitment and retention of Black teachers? The answer lies not only in addressing the financial burdens of teacher education but also in creating a culture that values, respects, and nurtures the talents of Black educators. Let's champion policies that promote diversity and inclusion in our schools. Because at the end of the day, education is about more than just imparting knowledge. It's about preparing our youth for a diverse and inclusive future. And that starts with ensuring our teachers represent the rich tapestry of backgrounds and experiences that make up our society. https://lnkd.in/emZGj3aX #Diversity #Inclustion #Teachers #Educators #EducationMatters

https://lnkd.in/dCSaqXUZ Check out the transformative power of diversity and inclusion secretive education and learning with our most recent blog post," Quality in Education: Discover the Top Black BIPOC K-12 Independent School Expert in Sherman Oaks." Delve into the importance of welcoming variety and satisfy the leading consultant devoted to improving instructional experiences. Find out about success stories showcasing college transformations, uncover tailored solutions offered, and review endorsements from pleased clients. Discover just how quality education and learning can form a brighter future for pupils and communities alike.

WEBINAR: Are We Recruiting Black Teachers Into A Burning Building? The Necessary Steps for Effective Recruitment and Retention with Sharif el-Mekki. Join us on June 5, 3:00-4:00 PM EST. Eurocentric teaching methods are common in American education, but Black communities have their own effective teaching styles rooted in their cultural norms. Unfortunately, these practices are often overlooked in predominantly white educational settings. However, if schools and districts embraced Black instructional methods, we would likely see better results for students and teachers alike. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gu4gZxPt

📢 Embracing the Essential Role of Black Teachers in Education 📚✊ In the quest for inclusive and equitable education, let's take a moment to recognize the indispensable contributions of Black teachers. Their impact reaches far beyond the confines of the classroom, shaping minds, inspiring futures, and fostering cultural pride. Here's why #BlackTeachersMatter: 🔍 **Representation Matters**: Black educators serve as vital role models for Black students, demonstrating that success knows no racial bounds and empowering future generations to reach for the stars. 🌍 **Cultural Understanding**: By bringing a unique perspective and cultural sensitivity to the table, Black teachers create safe spaces for dialogue and expression, fostering connections that transcend textbooks. 🚫 **Combatting Stereotypes**: Black teachers challenge stereotypes and biases head-on, defying negative expectations and showcasing their brilliance, professionalism, and passion for education. 🤝 **Building Bridges**: Beyond their impact on Black students, Black teachers promote understanding and empathy across diverse communities, enriching educational experiences for all. ⚖️ **Advocates for Equity**: Black teachers are tireless advocates for educational equity, fighting to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure fair treatment and opportunities for all students. Let's celebrate and amplify the voices of Black teachers, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for education. Together, let's champion #BlackTeachersMatter and the transformative power they bring to our schools and society. 🎓🌟