Celebrating Black genius: Shifting mindsets and igniting possibility

In a world that often seems to emphasize deficits, disparities, and achievement gaps, we must take a moment to celebrate the brilliance and genius that exists in Black youth as a method for raising student achievement.Growing up in Atlanta, surrounded by a rich tapestry of Black achievement in education and politics shaped my beliefs about what I could achieve. Exposure to Black excellence instilled in me a profound sense of pride and inspiration, creating an unwavering confidence in my abilities and the determination to pursue my dreams, regardless of societal constraints.Research suggests that a strong positive racial identity in children can lead to better educational outcomes by promoting a sense of belonging and self-worth, which in turn enhances motivation and engagement in the learning process. When children have a healthy understanding and appreciation of their racial and cultural backgrounds, they are more likely to thrive academically and socially.I will repeat it tirelessly: representation matters and can profoundly influence how our youth perceive their potential. It is unfortunate that my experience is the exception rather than the rule, and it is a grave injustice that all children do not have this same access.In a study published by the National Bureau of...