Zavia Jarrett

4 Ways to Promote Anti-Racist Teaching in Schools

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We are at a point when we need to critically examine why anti-racist teaching is a crucial component of institutional and social change. How can White educators teach anti-racism if they are out of touch with the systemic racism and biases that Black children are so familiar with? The Village Method is here to provide answers and contribute to the quest for social justice.

 

Anti-racist teaching is an invaluable tool that can disrupt the widespread influence of white supremacy. By incorporating teaching practices centered around systemic racism and Social Emotional Learning, we might have a great chance to undo racism and racial trauma. If after-school programs could implement anti-racist pedagogy, so can schools.

 

However, we have a long way to go. Awareness and personal reflection are a must. Find out the 4 ways to promote anti-racist teaching in schools!

 

#1: Address White Privilege Right Away

Bursting the bubble of systemic racism in education is achievable. What we need to focus on is teaching and learning all there is to know about the color lines that continue to divide us. The average White student attends schools where 77% of the student body is of their race. The same cannot be said for Black or Hispanic students. 

 

An openly anti-racist educator must actively pursue the subject of race and equity work. Although they might not have direct experience of what it means to be subjected to systemic racism in education, they can surely learn from others. Racial and social justice are synonymous with a solid knowledge of minorities’ histories. Culturally affirming after-school programs are already starting to explore the richness of diverse cultures and traditions.

 

When we aim to address White privilege, we must first take a look at the history of segregation in education. The Brown v. Board of Education landmark decision came almost a hundred years after the end of the Civil War. Its main goal was to end racial segregation. It demanded that our children enjoyed equal educational opportunities. However, inequality in education remains an issue.

 

#2: Implement Critical Race Theory in Schools 

Anti-Critical Race Theory bills are slowing down the overall efforts of anti-racist teaching. Systemic racism in education is rampant. Furthermore, all institutions are unjust towards people of color. An anti-racist curriculum must include this valuable piece of information.

 

Professor and lawyer Derrick Bell is one of the central figures of the Critical Race Theory movement. He challenged the legal system and was motivated by the multitude of school desegregation cases he’d encountered throughout his career. His undeniable genius paved the way for the possibility of teaching Critical Race Theory in schools. 

 

We recommend that you read his 1980 article from the Harvard Law Review titled ‘Brown v. Board of Education and the Interest-Convergence Dilemma’. Sadly, you might find it extremely relevant and evocative of what our children are battling against right now. It suffices to say that the banning of Critical Race Theory in schools is unjust and meant to normalize systemic racism in education. 

 

#3: Teach African-American History Respectfully and Accurately

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When was the last time our children were given some enlightening information about Frederick Douglass in History class? We would be surprised and pleased if that was the case. Most likely, our children are taught that Africans migrated to the U.S. which completely ruins our attempt at racial justice in the classroom.

An anti-racist teaching practice requires deep critical thinking. Students deserve to understand the significance of being taught the real version of events. Reading literature that points out the violations of our ancestors’ human rights will connect students and serve as an opportunity for classroom discussions.

 

The anti-racist approach hides nothing from our children’s sight. Instead, it nurtures them and enables them to consistently identify racial biases in their day-to-day experiences. This active process of self-awareness is ultimately empowering. 

 

From kindergarten to higher education, Social Emotional Learning and the teaching of our people’s achievements, not only their struggles, can motivate our children to revolutionize organizational structures as adults. The social construct is inescapable, and therefore it needs to be acknowledged.

 

#4: Make Use of the Social Emotional Learning Framework

The emotional toll of racism speaks volumes about the need for Social Emotional Learning in schools. Young people are overwhelmed by the constant systemic injustice that they are subjected to. Social Emotional Learning encourages self-reflection and teaches our youth how to improve their mental health and make use of soft skills in order to succeed at school and in their future careers.

 

Promote Anti-Racist Pedagogy Starting Today!

Our 4 ways of promoting anti-racist pedagogy will surely help parents, educators, and students navigate the ever-changing social and educational landscapes. Engaging students in anti-racist teaching is the optimal way to give a voice to minorities and fight systemic racism in education. White privilege is something that should never be taken lightly.

 

The Village Method is an active supporter of anti-racist teaching. We represent one of the few culturally empowering after-school programs that are currently available for our youth. If you resonate with our mission, make sure to get involved! It takes a village to raise a child! 

The Vital Role of Parental Engagement in School

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Without parental engagement in schools, the educational process is certainly incomplete. That is why so many after-school programs, including The Village Method, have perfected their family engagement methods. In consequence, research has shown that student success increases considerably, all thanks to the presence of parental engagement in schools.

 

From staying in school to earning higher grades, the child’s education and academic achievement have both been impacted positively. Considering the fact that systemic racism in education is extremely prevalent, it is encouraging to take a look at the benefits of parental engagement in schools.

 

In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons why family engagement activities are a necessary component of student success. If we can engage parents the right way, the possibilities of closing the achievement gap are endless. 

 

Parental Engagement in Schools Facilitates Two-Way Communication

Parent involvement should be widespread in all school matters, regardless of the families’ socioeconomic status. In fact, educators and various other school partners must fully involve parents in things such as the learning process, as well as the common challenges that their children might encounter. This sense of shared responsibility can be a clear response to systemic racism in education.

 

Parent engagement activities are a rare opportunity to build relationships and encourage family and community involvement. Here is a brief list of things that educators should keep in mind to increase parent engagement:

 

  • Focus on the families’ culture, expertise, and strengths
  • Make sure that the school climate is positive
  • Ensure that racial injustice in the classroom is addressed in a respectful and mindful way
  • Learn from  families and trust that they know better when it comes to their children and their African ancestry
  • Acknowledge  systemic racism in education and use it as a catalyst for better academic achievement

 

Open communication leads to better parent engagement. School leaders who are promoting parent engagement need to pay close attention to the efficiency of the communication between educators and families. Student achievement is at stake here. 

 

Parental Engagement in Schools Encourages Learning at Home

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Family engagement activities rely on total parental involvement. The road to academic excellence doesn’t have to be similar to diving into the great unknown. In fact, the pandemic has shifted things by encouraging family-school partnerships to come to fruition. 

 

A never-before-seen phenomenon, family engagement activities soon became the norm. Unlike before, parents got involved in the educational process and got first-hand experience of how their children interacted with both their educators and their peers.

 

Furthermore, they were able to regularly help them with various projects and even with homework. This kind of authentic parent engagement was proof that families could help with learning at home. All they needed was the confidence to get involved and the ongoing communication with the educators. 

 

Systemic racism in education was as impactful as ever before the pandemic. In fact, nondominant families are treated at best as spectators of the work of schools. We believe that the gap between home and school has been bridged by the pandemic. It is our duty to make sure that this beneficial connection will stand the test of time. 

 

Parental Engagement in Schools and Empowerment

Engaging parents can be empowering. The Critical Race Theory is either banned or limited in several states. Teachers are still showing signs of apprehension when it comes to discussing race openly and honestly.

Even during Black History Month, things continue to be difficult. The history of our people is deliberately being silenced and replaced with a version of events that fails to empower our children. For this reason, after-school programs are taking matters into their own hands while intensively promoting family engagement activities. 

Both families and children can learn about the African way of living, explore the untold stories of their ancestors, and become empowered thanks to their newfound knowledge. Culturally responsive after-school programs provide alternatives that sustain parent involvement and raise questions that need urgent answering.

 

Our Children Need Parental Engagement in Schools 

However, we need to have a say regarding what our children are being taught. The curriculum needs to be revised and Critical Race Theory should definitely be widespread. The fact that our people’s voices are continuously stifled is a clear red flag. 

 

The vital role played by family engagement activities is recognized by after-school programs. It is time for school districts to focus on parent involvement. Student behavior will improve, academic achievement will flourish, and our children will become empowered and aware of their African ancestry, once and for all. 

 

The Village Method is dedicated to bringing parental engagement closer to young scholars and their families. We believe that parents are experts when it comes to their children’s needs. It takes a village to raise a child, according to the ancient African proverb. This is our definitive motto.

 

It is our mission to build villages of academically successful children. For that, we’ll need your help. Get involved now and lend a hand to our children. The adults of tomorrow need your support!

A Sense of Belonging: Introducing Social and Emotional Learning

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Our youth needs mental health support now more than ever. They would also benefit from self-management techniques and interpersonal skills. This way, positive outcomes and academic achievement will surely follow. Thankfully, Social and Emotional Learning is being implemented in both schools and after-school programs. The Village Method strongly supports such initiatives.

 

The prioritization of Social and Emotional Learning brings a newfound level of self-awareness to our children. By nurturing their emotional skills, we might have a definitive chance of closing the academic achievement gap. Soft skills are also crucial during one’s adult years. Why not plant the problem-solving seeds early on?

 

In this article, allow us to show you what Social and Emotional Learning stands for and how it can help us end the achievement gap and racial inequity in education. Read on to find out all you need to know!

 

What Is Social and Emotional Learning?

Social and Emotional Learning is a holistic practice that helps our youth thrive on both individual and collective levels. Among many other things, they will be in charge of their emotions and learn how to solve problems while maintaining a healthy attitude. Furthermore, they will learn how to build and maintain positive relationships with their peers.

 

For young people, self-control and social awareness can lead to great academic outcomes. The interpersonal skills that they assimilate throughout their K-12 years are invaluable. That is because brain development research has shown that adolescence is marked by a period of elasticity. This cognitive willingness that characterizes adolescence needs to be used for sustained growth. Therefore, Social-Emotional Learning skills are easy to inculcate. 

 

Behavioral issues are directly addressed through impulse control. As far as responsible decision-making is concerned, our children will be properly equipped with soft skills that prepare them for higher education and adulthood. Family engagement could also be the main catalyst for positive change in terms of behavior.

 

It’s obvious that Social-Emotional Learning tackles some of the core competencies that lead to our children’s well-being within the school environment. However, we still need to do more to empower young people. Culture-blind Social-Emotional Learning is an issue that we need to discuss.

 

Racial Equity and Social and Emotional Learning 

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Although Social and Emotional Learning can revolutionize academic achievement and interpersonal relationships, it is sadly taught improperly. There are clear discrepancies between how White and Black children are taught Social and Emotional skills. Unfortunately, educators continue to associate our youth with a myriad of racial stereotypes. 

 

This leads to a sense of segregation and a broadening of the achievement gap. The very things that are supposed to be addressed by Social-Emotional Learning are in fact being perpetuated by a crass lack of cultural awareness. 

 

This can only sadden and worry us, as concerned parents and educators. Thankfully, culturally responsive after-school programs make use of the Social and Emotional Learning framework through various family engagement activities.

 

Until racial equity is established and our children are treated with respect and empathy, there is no sustainable way that teachers can encourage first-generation college students to pursue academic achievement. 

 

Firstly, the students’ necessities must be validated and acknowledged by school leaders. Positive behavior is all about how we manage our emotions. We believe that teachers should lead the way through the power of personal example. 

 

They need to become fully accustomed to the needs of minority students. They must make a conscious decision to promote cultural responsiveness within the Social-Emotional Learning framework.

 

To co-create thriving schools that lean on strong Social-Emotional skills, we also need to make use of the Critical Race Theory (CRT). Self-reflection needs to happen on both sides. Therefore, educators have a responsibility to be aware of certain racial biases that can harm the integrity of Social and Emotional Learning.

 

Let’s Close the Achievement Gap With Social and Emotional Learning 

As we’ve seen, the Social and Emotional Learning framework is one of the best methods of developing self-awareness. Our children are constantly battling belittlement, bullying, and racial bias. If the teachers perpetuate these things, Social-Emotional Learning becomes useless. As a consequence, first-generation college students will be less likely to get into the college of their dreams.

 

That is why we need to be focused on delivering high-quality Social and Emotional Learning to a variety of students. For that, we will need diversity among the teachers and a culturally respectful approach throughout the entire process. That way, first-generation college students will be positively impacted by this change of perspective. 

 

The Village Method is different from all other after-school programs. We have always been early adopters of Social and Emotional Learning. We believe that this particular framework can change our country’s perception of minority students, particularly those that are of African descent. 

 

Together, we can build strong villages of young scholars that thrive both socially and emotionally. However, we will need your help. We kindly ask you to get involved and help our cause in any way you can. Our children deserve to enjoy the limitless benefits of Social and Emotional Learning!

What the Best High Schools in America Should Prioritize in 2022

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2022 is looking like a busy year for public high schools in America. There is plenty of work to do, especially when it comes to closing the achievement gap experienced by most Black students. Intergenerational poverty, persistent segregation, and systemic racism plague most school districts. The Village Method differs from most after-school programs. We aim to help young scholars achieve the success they rightfully deserve.

 

Like many other institutions, high schools in America are built on a caste system. Racial hierarchies are nothing new. Every Black student has to fight their way through constant discrimination. The K-12 years should mark a smooth transition to college. Sadly, college enrollment among Black students has declined, and teachers are confused about the solutions they should come up with.

 

Continue reading our article and find out if high schools in America have the capacity to mend the achievement gap and tend to the needs of the first-generation college student.

 

High Schools in America vs. the Achievement Gap

Let us take a look at Advanced Placement courses. They showcase the students’ interests, drive for academic success, and ability to succeed in college. They are very important for the college application process, and yet only 9% of Black students are enrolled. Why is this figure so low?

 

Our youth should have access to all the opportunities that arise throughout their four years of high school. Electives are also a huge part of high school academics. By focusing on various subjects, the road to university can become easier, even for a first-generation college student. 

 

Research has shown that charter schools are linked to segregation. Although Black students attend charter schools in higher numbers than the traditional ones, their needs continue to be unmet. Family engagement activities are widely recognized as key ingredients to long-term academic success. They could be used as a way to end segregation.

 

Many undergraduates of color fail to connect with the curriculum. The achievement gap is indeed caused by high levels of poverty. However, what is less talked about is how quality tutoring should be the educators’ main concern. The achievement gap won’t close itself. The parents, teachers, and students must come together and reach a consensus when it comes to the contents of the curriculum.

 

Since the curriculum doesn’t cover the extensive need for classroom discussions on race, seniors have turned to after-school programs. Although they are not formally required, after-school programs are a necessary addition. They encourage our youth to nurture their talents, study an extensive version of Black history, and master the college application process.


High Schools in America and After-School Programs

The high and unmet demand for after-school programs is a direct consequence of the achievement gap that is being perpetuated in most high schools. Qualitative after-school programs remain a remote dream for families of color with low incomes. These are the families that crave education the most. 

 

Every single high school graduate of color should be confident enough to pursue college applications. Ideally, the freshman year should mark the beginning of the college application process. Things like work and leadership experience, financial literacy, community involvement, and extracurricular activities are just what admissions officers are looking for. 

 

We should always keep the first-generation college student in mind when developing after-school programs. They are the most vulnerable category because they can easily get intimidated by the many formalities that are necessary in order to get admitted into college. 

 

That is why after-school programs take the lead. Not only do they nurture academic excellence, but they also acknowledge the achievement gap and systemic racism that pervades American society. All minorities need to be empowered and presented with the real facts. 

 

Black history should be a good starting point. The successes and experiences of Black people go beyond the standard slavery lessons. We, as a people, have an extensive history that traces all the way back to our African ancestry, culture, and traditions. Students deserve to know this. 

 

High Schools in America and Black Counselors 

Since most high schools in America deal with unequal opportunity and a lack of diverse high school counselors, it is needless to say that education itself is lacking in quality. It’s important to speak the young ones’ language and give them the opportunity to consult with Black counselors. 

 

Black counselors have the power to offer our youth a look into their own futures. The power of personal example is unlike any other piece of information that might come from any figure of authority. 

 

Counseling should also provide our children with the tools to increase their standardized test scores. They need guidance in order to understand the entire college application process. Lastly, they should be familiarized with the International Baccalaureate, as well as the Advanced Placement courses they can take.

 

There are so many things that public high schools in America must prioritize. We believe that the points we’ve made in this article would mark the ideal starting point for all minority students. 

Are Public High Schools in America Prioritizing the Right Things?

2022 can be a year of change for the better. With the COVID-19 pandemic slowly receding, it is time to rethink education as a whole. Family engagement activities promoted by after-school programs proved that the gap between home and school could finally be bridged.

 

Why not apply the same logic to the achievement gap? High schools in America need to take extensive notes from culturally affirming after-school programs. They need to implement a new strategy. 

 

Finally, high schools in America need to prioritize family engagement activities, tailor empowering curriculums, and teach every single first-generation college student about how they should tackle the college application process. This way, we might have a solid chance at educational equity.

 

The Village Method is not your usual after-school program. We are dedicated to creating villages of culturally empowered, successful young scholars. Join our cause and get involved today! 

A New Agenda: Race and Education Inequality

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School districts all across the country struggle to connect properly with minority students. The concept of race and education inequality continue to be deeply interconnected. This reinforces the achievement gap and prevents our youth from academic excellence. The Village Method believes that a positive change in public schools is possible. 

 

However, it might take longer than expected. That is why after-school programs are slowly but surely becoming the most necessary tool for quality education. While grown-ups struggle with racial wealth inequality, our children have to face the fact that both race and education inequality are getting in the way of their educational opportunities. 

 

Why is educational inequality still prevalent in our society? How can we counteract its damaging effects?. We’ll give you a hint. Qualitative, effective after-school programs are ideal. Continue reading to find out all the vital details!

 

What Is the Link Between Race and Education Inequality?

For centuries, segregated school districts have resulted in a disregard for the fundamental needs of Black students across our country. With time, the racial wealth gap widened, educational outcomes dropped, and Black students became undoubtedly oppressed by the continuous school segregation.

 

Although the legacy of the Brown v. Board of Education landmark decision continues to stand out as one of the highlights of the 20th century, public schools still have a long way to go. Racial inequality affects the student population more than anything else. High-poverty schools lack resources and teacher quality.

 

Let us take a look at what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic. African-American parents struggled to provide their children with the necessary devices for remote learning. The culprit? The racial wealth gap.

 

Race and education inequality go hand in hand these days, and we have some solutions to help our young scholars attend schools and after-school programs confidently.

 

Strong Communities and Academic Excellence

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Student performance and academic excellence can only be nurtured by building strong communities. Regardless of racial disparities, students must feel welcomed and understood for their student achievement to improve. 

 

Their test scores and overall social skills will ultimately rely on how well we address the existing racial gap. Our youth needs genuine encouragement and motivation in order to join hands with other like-minded individuals and stay dedicated to their futures.

 

Although financial resources are often limited, our children deserve to feel seen, heard, and capable of taking on the responsibility of higher education. Research shows that only 57% of Black students access the math and science courses necessary for college readiness. 

 

Such education statistics can seem discouraging. However, once we realize just how prevalent systemic racism is in the classroom, it should come as no surprise. Classroom management and a change of curriculum could help Black children in America become empowered and successful. But what is preventing students from achieving their dreams?

 

Afrocentric After-School Programs: Counteracting the Race and Education Inequality Issue

Another link between race and education inequality in America is caused by the perpetual rejection of African values, knowledge, wisdom, and history. The good news is that there are after-school programs that embrace family engagement activities while teaching our children about the African spirit and tradition. 

 

Although alternative ways of learning are more in demand than ever, families of color face greater challenges accessing after-school programs. Educational opportunity starts where racial segregation ends. 

 

The importance of family engagement activities was reiterated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The gap between home and school was finally bridged, allowing families to connect with the educators in a much more efficient, respectful manner. 

 

Before the pandemic, most parents were reticent about attending one-on-one meetings with the teachers. They rarely felt understood or perceived as trustworthy collaborators who could add value to the educational experiences of their young ones. 

 

In truth, Black parents should always be regarded as figures of authority. After all, they should always have a say in regards to the curriculum and overall approach.

 

While federal policymakers struggle to reach a consensus regarding the achievement gap, after-school programs are promoting academic excellence. Afrocentric activities paired with the reinforcement of family engagement and Social and Emotional Learning are just what our children require.

 

 

Is America Ready to Address the Race and Educational Inequality Issue?

As we’ve seen,  race and education inequality go hand in hand. Systemic racism prevents public education from nurturing our children all the way to college. Meanwhile, Black and White students continue to have opposing experiences of what education means.

 

The new agenda must address the inequality in education. It should prioritize family engagement activities, Social and Emotional Learning, and pave a safe way to academic excellence. Otherwise, students of color will continue to face the same adversities.

 

The Village Method has always believed that It takes a village to raise a child. Black families and children throughout our nation are in dire need of empowerment. We offer more than just a regular after-school program. We create opportunities for our youth, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

We believe that we can change this country, one child at a time. However, we will need your help along the way. Get involved today and spread the word about our good cause!

Why Culturally Affirming After-School Programs Are In Demand

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A curriculum built by and for our Black youth should help close the achievement gap and restore educational equity. However, school hours fail to cover the magnitude of our real history. After-school programs can succeed when the curriculum fails our children. The Village Method is here to support families and act as a community of like-minded people. 

 

If you’ve read The Education of Blacks in the South, 1860-1935 by James D. Anderson, you would already know that our people took great pride in accessing educational resources and ending illiteracy once and for all. This desire for academic excellence has deep roots. Our children deserve to explore their history and be aware of certain social patterns. 

 

In today’s article, we will look at some of the reasons why we’re seeing such a high demand for quality after-school programs. Find out how we can respond to this growing enthusiasm for addressing systemic racism in education in our article below!

 

After-School Programs Lend a Hand to Working Families

The Black-White achievement gap is an issue that stems from a lack of deeper understanding. Academic support is rarely given to our youth. Instead, they are being stereotyped and perceived as much more likely to get into trouble and perform poorly in school.

 

According to the Afterschool Alliance, 4 in 5 Black parents agree that after-school programs provide working parents peace of mind. Pairing academic excellence with the ambition for Afrocentric knowledge can promote educational equity. 

 

After-school programs that prioritize the African way of learning and living can be extremely empowering. Every single community that has struggled to escape systemic racism in education will 

 

We all want our children to reach academic excellence and become fully empowered individuals. First, we must look into after-school programs that provide this kind of learning to their participants. 

 

After-School Programs Promote Family Engagement

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Young people need continuous care and nurturing. They require after-school programs that acknowledge and target the very nature of systemic racism in education. Also, they need to connect with teachers that are respectful to minorities and adamant about implementing family engagement activities. 

 

Educational equity can only exist when teachers find innovative ways of getting the parents involved. The students’ leadership skills and overall development are critical to their college success.

 

Challenges that once seemed impossible to surpass can now be solved as soon as parents participate in family engagement activities. Not only does family engagement contribute to learning, but it also contributes to a healthier dynamic between the teacher and our children. 

 

After-School Programs Target Systemic Racism In Education

Ignorance is not bliss. It is a perpetuation of the achievement gap issue. The parents must be recognized as authority figures when it comes to their cultural acumen. Every school district should encourage its educators to adapt their curriculum according to the preferences of both parents and students.

 

Our youth’s mental and emotional wellbeing is at stake. Did you know that after-school programs are introduced as resources for Black males? We all know that young boys learn rather prematurely how to survive in a world plagued by senseless violence, poverty, discrimination, and lower chances of them achieving academic excellence. 

 

The K-12 schooling system is rarely interested in finding prevention measures against the discrimination of young men of color. After-school programs offer our youth resources that motivate them to stay in school and eventually give back to the community that kept them away from delinquency. 

 

After-School Programs Prioritize Social and Emotional Learning 

A Wings For Kids study has shown that Social and Emotional Learning promoted skills such as self-awareness, self-regulation, and decision-making in kindergartners and first-grade kids. 

 

The benefits of Social and Emotional Learning are overlooked most of the time. Instead, this framework should be widely recognized as one of the best resources that our youth can access. In order to minimize the dangerous effects of systemic racism in education, we must insist on the implementation of the Social and Emotional Learning framework.

 

Kids should attend after-school programs that amplify their skills. Their behavior within the community will also significantly change for the better. As for their mental health, it will finally be addressed correctly.

 

Are Culturally Affirming After-School Programs Worth Investing In?

The achievement gap can be closed, one child at a time. It takes a village to raise a child. Together, we can provide our youth with the correct tools and resources that will enable them to give back to the community that was there for them ever since the beginning.

 

The Village Method is not one of those regular after-school or summer programs that you might have already heard of. Unlike many after-school programs, we offer each child the opportunity to grow and be proud of their African origins. 

 

Family engagement and Social and Emotional Learning are central to what we do. However, we cannot dismantle systemic racism in education by ourselves. We need your help!

 

We would be more than grateful if you could get involved and help spread the word about our cause. The more, the merrier. Our youth deserves it.