Center for Black Educator Development

"This moment in history has the ability to create either despair or action for those who believe in a diverse and equitable education system," says Tony Rojas, Executive Coordinator, the latest addition to the Center for Black Educator Development family. "I feel proud to support an energetic, visionary organization like CBED that rejects discrimination and promotes a future built on diversity and quality education." Rojas is a dedicated administrative professional with 10 years of experience, ranging from private industries to nonprofits. He has provided direct support to C-level executives while maintaining a helping hand to all staff. His focus rests on ensuring that those around him have the support they need to be the best versions of themselves. As an education-equity advocate, Rojas holds a Bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University where he studied English and Social Justice. Prior to coming to the Center, he worked with the strategic planning firm Bloom Planning, where he built his skillset in team management, event planning, and partnering with mission-driven organizations. Throughout his personal and professional life, Rojas aims to create a diverse, equitable, and engaged community, bringing that same energy to the Center along with an expertise in organizational tools, creative problem-solving, and a constant curiosity. We're extremely proud to have Tony Rojas on our journey as we continue to rebuild the National Black Teacher Pipeline!

With the most recent attacks and massive unprecedented layoffs at the U.S. Department of #Education, we encourage all parents, guardians and caregiver to join the National Parents Union (NPU). NPU reminds us: "Together we can build pockets of #parentpower across the nation to stop the endless cycle of generational, institutional racism, and ensure education is a civil right for families everywhere. Get involved today! Mothers, fathers, tias, abuelas and nanas, we want YOU to join our movement to build a better future for all children!" We encourage you not to panic but to get and/or stay encouraged and active. The time is now to advocate and activate on behalf of #children, #families and communities. Find out more about how to get involved and/or become a member of the National Parents Union by visiting https://lnkd.in/gD-matQg. Your voice matters!

“Gutting the U.S. Department of Education is more than a political move – it’s a direct threat to educational access, equity, and opportunity, especially for Black teachers and students.” Today, Sharif El-Mekki, the CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development, issued a?statement condemning the U.S. Department of Education’s “reduction in force” decision. Read more and learn how you can take action: https://lnkd.in/g_qbJjeg #SaveED #SavePublicSchools #WeNeedBlackTeachers

Pennsylvania Needs More Teachers! Pennsylvania’s Student Teacher Stipend Program, originally introduced by Senator Vincent Hughes, is helping student teachers pay their bills while they complete their unpaid student teaching requirement! Applications are OPEN NOW for Student Teacher Stipends for the 25-26 School Year. Individuals who will student teach in the 25-26 school year can?apply for a student teacher stipend today on the PHEAA website. If you or someone you know will be student teaching in the next school year, apply now for funding that supports future teachers. Stipends will be awarded on a first come, first serve basis.? Applicants can apply online at?PHEAA.ORG/STUDENTTEACHER?

BREAKING NEWS: A massive round of layoffs is coming for the U.S. Department of Education. An end-of-day email closed the building and instructed DOE staff to work from home as hundreds are expected to lose their jobs tomorrow. Details: https://lnkd.in/g9rUDBS7 Sending support to educators and those who assist educators across the country tonight.

Here's a resource you may not know about: The #LiberationLibrary. What is it? "Inside the Library, you’ll get: ?? Weekly audio trainings that actually shift your practice ?? Monthly Real-time coaching and Q&A sessions ?? A private Telegram community where we don’t play small—we build power ?? Student-centered strategies you can implement tomorrow ?? And a place where your fire gets fed, not snuffed out You’ve said you wanted to teach differently. You’ve said you believe in liberation. Now it’s time to show up like it. Join the Liberation Library now..."

"Everywhere is a classroom..." - Sharif El-Mekki, Founder/CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development. Check out El-Mekki with Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey's “A More Perfect Union” show on KBLA1580 Talk Radio. This episode is entitled "Young, Gifted & Black Teachers Wanted Despite Attacks." (The interview starts at 8:51.) This is a conversation you don't want to miss: https://lnkd.in/gVUsqZJN

Exciting Announcement! We are thrilled to introduce a few of the incredible presenters who will be sharing their expertise at the Black Male Educator Convening! This year, we gather under the theme "Strength in Numbers: The Collective Power of Black Male Teachers & Leaders." Thanks to a generous grant from the Center for Black Educator Development, we are able to open this year's convening to all Black Male Educators and Leaders at no cost. These dynamic leaders are dedicated to uplifting, inspiring, and equipping Black male educators with the tools and strategies to thrive in the classroom and beyond. Stay tuned—this is just the beginning! We have more exciting presenter announcements coming soon.

We've got to stop the "parents vs. teachers" mentality in education. Sharif El-Mekki #FreedomFriday WATCH: https://lnkd.in/gWcVjCC7

Because the State of Black Learning is bigger than a conference. It’s a seed and dream that started over 7 years ago to better services for Black children. As Sharif El-Mekki so eloquently stated, it’s a place of community and healing. #SBL is a one-of-a-kind community that’s so tight and supportive, you’ll find yourself saying, “This is where I belong.” From teachers to district leaders, there’s something for all education stakeholders at #SBL25. Keep dreamin’ with us this August: stateofblacklearning.com Center for Black Educator Development K. Chase Patterson Angelique Drakeford Wayne Jones, Ed.D. Brandon D. Coney Jazminn Williams Dennis Henderson Sharnay Hearn Davis, MSCL Caree Stevens Maureen Anderson, Ed.D.