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Despite progress in educational access, Black students in Alabama continue to face systemic inequities that hinder academic success and lifelong opportunity. From under-resourced schools to implicit bias in classrooms, the obstacles are real—but so is the power of informed advocacy. In this article, we’ll explore the systemic challenges Black students face in Alabama, the impact of mental health on academic performance, and actionable steps parents and advocates can take to help close the gap. Understanding the Landscape: Systemic Inequities in Alabama Education Educational inequality in Alabama is deeply rooted in historical segregation, economic disparity, and policy shortcomings. According to the Southern [...]

Parental engagement is a cornerstone of academic success. For Black families in Alabama, active involvement in schools is not just beneficial—it’s transformational. When Black parents raise their voices, show up, and advocate for their children, they influence policies, improve educational outcomes, and drive lasting change in communities. In this article, we’ll explore the power of parental involvement in education, the impact on academic success and mental health, and concrete ways Black parents can take action in Alabama's schools. Why Parental Engagement Matters According to the National Education Association, students with engaged families are more likely to: Earn higher grades and test [...]

In a nation where classrooms are increasingly diverse, one thing remains glaringly clear: representation in education matters. A culturally relevant curriculum is more than a buzzword—it's a necessary shift in how we prepare Black children to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. For too long, textbooks and lesson plans have centered narratives that exclude or misrepresent Black history, voices, and achievements. This article explores the importance of diverse curricula, the impact on Black students’ mental health and academic success, and how parents can advocate for inclusive learning materials in Alabama and beyond. Why Representation in Education Matters What Is Culturally Relevant Curriculum? [...]

STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—is more than just a set of academic disciplines. It’s the gateway to innovation, future-ready careers, and economic empowerment. Yet, Black students remain vastly underrepresented in STEM fields due to longstanding disparities in access, encouragement, and resources. In Alabama and across the U.S., ensuring Black students have the support, representation, and opportunities to thrive in STEM is critical. In this article, we’ll explore why representation matters, share tips for parents and educators, and highlight verifiable programs making a difference today. Why STEM Matters for Black Students The Opportunity Gap According to the National Science Foundation (NSF), Black [...]

Introduction: Why Mental Health Matters in Education Mental health is a key component of academic success—yet it remains one of the most overlooked factors in student achievement. For Black students in Alabama and across the nation, the intersection of race, trauma, and education creates unique mental health challenges that deserve intentional support. Addressing these issues head-on is critical. When Black students are mentally healthy, they’re more likely to stay engaged in school, perform better academically, and build positive relationships with peers and teachers. Supporting mental wellness isn't optional—it's foundational to helping our children thrive. Understanding the Mental Health Crisis Among Black [...]

Here are just a few of the many educators across the state whose work is making a powerful difference: Dr. Roderick Watts – A Legacy of Equity and Excellence A former board member of Black Alabamians for Education, Dr. Watts served as a mentor and advocate for underserved students for over two decades. His commitment to centering families and pushing for high-quality education access left a legacy of policy impact and community engagement. Ashlee Taylor, Esq. – Bridging Education and Justice As the Director of Operations at Black Alabamians for Education, Ashlee Taylor combines her legal expertise with educational advocacy to [...]

Early Childhood Education: Setting Black Children Up for Success Before Kindergarten A solid educational foundation begins long before a child walks into their first kindergarten classroom. For Black families in Alabama, investing early in a child’s learning journey is one of the most powerful steps toward long-term academic success and equity. Why Early Childhood Education Matters Research shows that children who attend high-quality early childhood programs are more likely to read on grade level by third grade, graduate high school, and attend college. For Black children—who often face systemic barriers in education—access to early learning can help close the opportunity gap [...]