Young Black men and boys remain the most vulnerable student population in U.S. schools.

That’s why David Kirkland, founder & CEO of forwardED, is asking educators to “put a deliberate focus on Black boys” this year – to uplift Black boys, of course, but also because research shows that addressing the needs of our most vulnerable populations helps ALL.

“It’s not that Black males fail. It’s that we fail Black males,” David says. “it’s important for us to reframe that focus so we can understand what we can do better.”

Takeaways:

• Black boys are the most vulnerable student population in U.S. schools, facing persistent disparities in academic achievement and discipline.
• The education system is failing Black boys, and the framing of the issue needs to shift from blaming Black males to recognizing that the system fails them.
• A comprehensive approach is needed, including funding, culturally responsive education, policy changes, and a shift in mindset and practices.
• Addressing the needs of Black boys will benefit all students and lead to better outcomes in the education system.

Links we mentioned (or should have) in this episode:

www.forward-ed.com/

Reclaiming Possibliity: An Intentional Focus on Black Boys This School Year — article by David

Can We Talk? A Critical Examination of Cellphone Bans in Schools — article by David

Black Boys Matter — ON BOYS episode

Supporting Black Boys Mental Health (w Chandra White-Cummings) — ON BOYS episode

Boys in School Task Force — ON BOYS episode

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