As a Black leader, I questioned why we were not developing deep relationships, bonds, and connections with our Black students. Since they were entering and exiting my office at such a high rate, I had an opportunity to meet their families, learn about their joys, their fears, what excites them, and even learn about their dreams. I then observed that disproportionate discipline was impacting African-American students all throughout our district, region, state, and nation, impacting their sense of belonging, sense of self, and sense of academic identity. This hurt me, and I needed to do something about it.
William Jackson shares the story of generational impact of the Black male experience. Journey with William as he reflects on the relationship with his father and nephew. William shares his navigation of Blackness in America, the current purpose and impact of the US schooling system, and the possible #futurity of learning for Black students and future generations.
The author shares her narrative of helping a Black family navigate the public school she leads, and the conflicts that arise between system and family.