"We are the backbones, we are the nurturers, we are the lovers, we are the teachers."

Ayanna Scott Jenkins

Middle School Instructional Coach

ayanna.s.jenkins@gmail.com

http://www.primerica.com/a_jenkins

"Without us, the world would be something different."

This week, we welcome Ayanna Scott Jenkins, a dedicated middle school instructional coach, to Black Educators Matter. Born and raised in Aurora, Illinois, Ayanna reflects on her formative years in predominantly white educational settings, where, despite never having a Black teacher, she was deeply influenced by a strong community of Black mentors, including her parents and godparents. Her journey led her to pursue education at Clark Atlanta University and later at the University of Illinois, Chicago, majoring in secondary education. Ayanna shares her experiences of moving through different educational landscapes, from Illinois to Ohio, and the profound impact of building genuine connections with her students.

"I wanted to be the teacher that I did not have."

Ayanna discusses the challenges and triumphs of her 24-year career in education, emphasizing the importance of leading with love and the critical role of mentorship. Her reflections touch on the systemic issues within Black education, including the effects of integration and the need for communal support and representation in schools. Ayanna also shares her passion for financial literacy, aiming to empower educators to secure their futures beyond retirement.

Special thanks to Dr. Briggs, Dr. Stephanie Powell, Dr. Darrell Sanders, and Dr. Kimberly Hinton, whose mentorship and guidance have significantly shaped Ayanna's career and personal growth.

"You are capable and it is possible."

Darius Stanley

Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership, Author

To order his book: https://hep.gse.harvard.edu/9781682538869/blackeducatorsmatter/

"I realized that I don't think they hired me to teach."

This week, we are joined by Dr. Darius Stanley, an assistant professor of educational leadership at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Hailing from Tallahassee, Florida, Dr. Stanley shares his journey from being one of the few Black students in his K-12 classes to attending Florida A&M University, an HBCU that felt like home. His experiences in predominantly white schools and later at an all-Black high school shaped his understanding of the importance of representation and community in education.

"Black educators are the shepherds of maintaining the wholeness of Black students."

Dr. Stanley reflects on his career, from teaching social studies in Orlando to pursuing a PhD to enact systemic change. He discusses the challenges Black educators face, such as being seen as disciplinarians rather than teachers, and the critical role they play in creating spaces where Black students can see their potential. His book, "Black Educators Matter: The Experiences of Black Teachers in an Anti-Black World," explores these themes and emphasizes the importance of addressing anti-Blackness in educational systems to truly support Black educators and students.

Special thanks to Mr. Burgess, Dr. David Jackson, and all the Black educators who have influenced Dr. Stanley's journey and continue to inspire others.

“You do you.”

Chris Chambers Goodman

Professor of Law

"I really love when I see the light bulb of recognition."

This week, we are joined by Professor Chris Chambers Goodman, a distinguished law professor at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law. Born in Los Angeles and now residing between Switzerland and Malibu, Goodman reflects on her journey from a diverse K-12 experience to becoming a trailblazer in legal education. Navigating through different school districts, she faced the challenges of being one of the few Black students, yet she thrived, becoming the valedictorian and later attending Harvard University, where she was the only Black student from her high school to do so. Her journey was further inspired by her first Black professor in law school, who encouraged her to consider academia, leading her to a fulfilling career in legal education.

"Mentoring and seeing the light bulb go off bring me joy."

Professor Goodman shares her insights on the importance of visibility, mentoring, and providing alternatives in education. She emphasizes the significance of being an authentic educator and the joy she finds in mentoring students who go on to become judges, congresspersons, and educators themselves. Her career has been marked by her dedication to ensuring her students feel seen and supported, particularly those who may not have had a Black professor before. Goodman discusses the ongoing challenges and opportunities within Black education, highlighting the impact of affirmative action and the evolving landscape of educational equity.

Special thanks to Professor Chuck Lawrence and Patricia Williams, whose mentorship and groundbreaking work have significantly influenced Goodman's career and research. Shout out to the Black law professors who continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations.