Latest News | Black Alabamians for Education

The Impact of Mental Health on Education in Alabama’s Black Community

admin2024-07-23T12:13:15-05:00

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, and its impact on education is profound, especially within the Black community in Alabama. Historical and systemic challenges have contributed to mental health disparities, affecting academic performance and educational outcomes. Mental Health Challenges in the Black Community Historical Trauma and Systemic Inequities: Historical trauma and ongoing systemic inequities have had lasting effects on the mental health of the Black community. Issues such as discrimination, economic disparities, and limited access to mental health care exacerbate stress and anxiety levels. Stigma Around Mental Health: There is a significant stigma surrounding mental health issues within [...]

The Impact of Mental Health on Education in Alabama’s Black Communityadmin2024-07-23T12:13:15-05:00

Alabama Reading Scores: An Overview of Recent Trends and Initiatives

admin2024-06-20T13:46:21-05:00

Alabama has been focusing on improving reading proficiency among its students, particularly in the early grades. Recent data from the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP) reveals that 24% of Alabama’s third graders were reading below grade level in 2023, an increase from 22% in 2022. This rise in below-grade-level readers highlights ongoing challenges, despite the state’s efforts to boost literacy rates. The Literacy Act and Its Impact The Alabama Literacy Act, passed in 2019, aims to ensure that all students are reading at grade level by the end of third grade. The act has led to significant investments in reading instruction [...]

Alabama Reading Scores: An Overview of Recent Trends and Initiativesadmin2024-06-20T13:46:21-05:00

Creating Hope and Opportunity for Our Students’ Education Act of 2024 The CHOOSE Act

admin2024-05-21T14:27:12-05:00

Creating Hope and Opportunity for Our Students’ Education Act of 2024 The CHOOSE Act The CHOOSE Act, signed into law by Gov. Kay Ivey on March 7, 2024, makes refundable income tax credits called education savings accounts (ESAs), available to support the success of every K-12 student in Alabama. The law requires the Alabama Department of Revenue to establish a framework and funding for ESAs, which may be used by eligible families to cover tuition, fees, and other qualified education expenses at approved education service providers (ESPs) in Alabama. ESAs in the amounts below will be available beginning with the 2025-2026 [...]

Creating Hope and Opportunity for Our Students’ Education Act of 2024 The CHOOSE Actadmin2024-05-21T14:27:12-05:00

Mental Health and Education: Supporting Black Students in Alabama

admin2024-04-22T16:39:41-05:00

Mental health plays a critical role in a student's ability to learn, grow, and succeed academically. In Alabama, Black students face unique challenges that can impact their mental well-being, including systemic inequities and disparities in access to mental health resources. As advocates for education, it's crucial that we address these challenges and support Black students in achieving their full potential. The Impact of Mental Health on Education: Research has shown that mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, can significantly impact a student's ability to learn and thrive in school. These issues can lead to academic difficulties, behavioral problems, [...]

Mental Health and Education: Supporting Black Students in Alabamaadmin2024-04-22T16:39:41-05:00

Elevating Education: A Guide to Advocacy in Alabama

admin2024-03-18T15:10:01-05:00

Alabama's educational landscape is rich with potential, yet it also faces significant challenges. As advocates for education, we have the power to drive positive change and ensure every student receives a quality education. In this blog post, we'll explore how to effectively advocate for education in Alabama and the benefits of doing so. Understanding the Importance of Advocacy: Advocacy plays a crucial role in shaping education policy and ensuring that schools receive the resources they need. By advocating for education, we can help improve student outcomes, promote equity in education, and support educators in their vital work. How to Advocate for [...]

Elevating Education: A Guide to Advocacy in Alabamaadmin2024-03-18T15:10:01-05:00

Empowering Black Alabamians: The Power of Parent Engagement in Alabama Schools

admin2024-01-16T12:22:02-06:00

In the vibrant tapestry of Alabama's education landscape, the role of parent engagement is paramount. For Black Alabamians, active involvement in their children's education is not just a choice; it's a powerful tool for shaping a brighter future. In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of parent engagement, discuss how to do it right, and understand the essence of parent engagement itself. Understanding Parent Engagement: Parent engagement is more than just attending parent-teacher conferences or school events. It is a holistic approach that involves parents actively participating in their child's learning journey. This includes supporting academic endeavors, fostering a positive learning [...]

Empowering Black Alabamians: The Power of Parent Engagement in Alabama Schoolsadmin2024-01-16T12:22:02-06:00

Scholarship Opportunities for Black Students in Alabama

admin2023-12-01T10:47:11-06:00

Access to quality education is a cornerstone of empowerment and progress. In Alabama, numerous scholarship opportunities exist to support the educational aspirations of Black students. This blog aims to shine a spotlight on these initiatives, providing a valuable resource for those seeking financial assistance to pursue their academic dreams. 1. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs): Alabama boasts several renowned HBCUs, each offering scholarship programs that empower Black students. From tuition assistance to merit-based scholarships, these institutions are committed to fostering educational excellence and advancing the African American community. 2. Statewide Programs: Explore Alabama's statewide scholarship programs designed to uplift Black [...]

Scholarship Opportunities for Black Students in Alabamaadmin2023-12-01T10:47:11-06:00

Lakendra Thomas

admin2023-11-06T12:43:06-06:00

Lakendra Thomas, a Birmingham native, is an accomplished educator with five years of experience in teaching and postsecondary advising. In addition to her dedication to education, she serves as an Army National Guard soldier, showcasing her commitment to both her community and her country. Lakendra holds a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education from The University of Alabama, where she gained valuable knowledge and skills to excel in her teaching career. Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, she pursued a Master's degree in Higher Education Administration from Liberty University. As a first-generation college student, Lakendra understands the significance of education in transforming [...]

Lakendra Thomasadmin2023-11-06T12:43:06-06:00

The Role of Community in Black Education: Spotlight on BlackAL4Edu

admin2023-10-17T12:26:27-05:00

Education is a fundamental cornerstone of individual growth and societal progress, and it's widely recognized that a supportive community plays a vital role in a student's educational journey. Within the Black community, educational equity and representation have been ongoing challenges for generations. However, a rising movement, BlackAL4Edu, is determined to reshape the narrative surrounding Black education by placing the spotlight on community empowerment and advocacy. The Challenges Faced by Black Parents and Students Before we delve into BlackAL4Edu's incredible work, it's essential to acknowledge the unique challenges that Black students have faced throughout history. Systemic racism, socioeconomic disparities, inadequate educational resources, [...]

The Role of Community in Black Education: Spotlight on BlackAL4Eduadmin2023-10-17T12:26:27-05:00

Empowering Success: Parental Engagement in Education – Tips for Black Families in Alabama

admin2023-09-20T16:45:22-05:00

Parental involvement is a cornerstone of a child's educational journey. For Black families in Alabama, engaging in your child's education is not only a means to academic success but also a path toward empowerment and equity. Black Alabamians for Education is committed to supporting and promoting educational excellence within our community. In this blog post, we'll provide valuable insights and tips to help Black families in Alabama actively participate in their children's education, fostering achievement and personal growth. 1. Cultivate Strong Communication: Effective communication with teachers, administrators, and your child is crucial. Attend parent-teacher conferences and school meetings to stay informed [...]

Empowering Success: Parental Engagement in Education – Tips for Black Families in Alabamaadmin2023-09-20T16:45:22-05:00