Kenny Lattimore asks us to think a moment about the value of teachers in our kids’ lives, particularly for their impact upon young black boys.
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As a father, I work to be the best possible example to my young son. But I also know he’ll spend much of his time in school under the direction and care of other adults, and the most significant influences will be his teachers. Educators have played a pivotal role in my life, and they are continuing to play that role in my son’s life. This week is Father’s Day, and I want to celebrate those having the greatest impact on the lives of so many.
Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours researching schools. In most, I’ve seen very few male teachers, and I’ve seen even fewer African-American male teachers. This is important, as the presence of an African American male teacher is so often underestimated, particularly as we think about their impact on young black boys.
I was fortunate. I had teachers of all races positively impact my life. But there were three African American teachers who became my personal examples of excellence, and who I especially would like to celebrate. Mr. James Nelon, Mrs. Barbara Dorsey, and Dr. Barbara Baker made the intensity of my school years far more manageable. They understood me. They were me. They were mothers and fathers to many of their students. Because of them I learned a bit more about respect, had the courage to stand in front of the class and belt out my first song, and decided to pursue my dreams of becoming a musical artist. Because of them and the support of my parents, I went on to college.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, African Americans comprise about 16 percent of the students in public schools. Yet, African American teachers only make up 7 percent of the 3 million teachers in public schools. And black men comprise only 2 percent of teachers.
While all students need to see more diversity in their classrooms, students of color especially need to see more teachers who share their backgrounds to help make an impact on their lives. And we know black men can serve as positive role models for students of color, especially boys. Having more black men in classrooms will further benefit schools by providing essential voices reflective of the diversity we see in our greater society, helping to expand horizons and improve outcomes for all children.
We know there is lower educational attainment for many low-income children and children of color. We also know that this has nothing to do with their inherent abilities, but rather the opportunities available to them. Simply put, the status quo is not working for these children. They are underperforming educationally and less than 10 percent of this group of children will go on to earn four-year college degrees. Our economic mobility is declining, and the only path out of poverty is education.
As a parent who entrusts teachers with my son every day, I am grateful fortheir commitment and presence in his life. Our kids need more African American men and women at the front of the classroom. It shows them, what is possible. Our children see their teachers as extensions of themselves with even greater possibility. And they begin to embrace educational excellence as something normal rather than exceptional.
While I am not a classroom teacher, I am a mentor, counselor, and surrogate father to young men who long for adult men to whom they can look up. I spend hours volunteering at my son’s school interacting with his peers, grading papers, and attending field trips. I have been a classroom parent since he was in first grade. I have become a part of their educational family. I am a consistent participator believing the more my son sees me taking his education seriously, he will do the same.
A black teacher – especially a black male teacher – is one of the most powerful images we can give our children. It’s in our nature to seek those to whom we can relate in any setting, be it a conference room or a classroom. There is a comfort in knowing you are not alone. There is comfort in believing in that which is possible. The presence of a black teacher says to children that we care about education; that they are a reflection of us and all that lies ahead.
Join me this June, as we celebrate fathers, to take a moment and celebrate our male teachers, including the teachers of color who inspire and guide our children
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About the author:
He launched his own label, SincereSoul Records, in 2012 and is preparing to release his new album in 2015. He has earned the reputation as one of today’s premier male vocalists, as well as a compelling songwriter who passionately explores universal themes and truths in a fresh new way. He makes music from his heart that feeds his listeners’ souls both lyrically and melodically. His music offers a much-needed oasis of depth and substance in a world that is hungry for both.
Lattimore is also a motivational speaker, dedicated to promoting the universal philosophy of Being One, based on the simple truth that people are more alike than different, no matter their race, religion, age or country: we all want to love and be loved. Lattimore is a supporter of Teach For America’s Dream.Rise.Do. initiative.
Photo: Flickr/Nazareth College
