Black Excellence in Education

Education is so important in the African American communities. In the first half, we spoke with the Henley Family, Robert Henley Jr., Robert Henley III, and Dr. Tanya Henley. Robert Henley Jr. is the director of education for the Florida Conference of Seventh-day Adventist. He emphasizes the importance of reimagining education in the school setting. Their son, Robert Henley III, was diagnosed with ADD at a young age and began using that label as an excuse for behavior. His parents began to study this and realized that changing education was important, matching children with their learning abilities. The classroom oftentimes does not meet the needs of a student and that can make them uninterested and disruptive. Listen to understand how recognizing the power within a student creates better solutions. To find out more about the Henley's offer after school education go to www.innovusinnovationcenter.com or call 321/435-4041 - The books he mentioned were: "Teacher as Architect"; "Tinker to Learn;" "Creating Innovators" by Tony Wagner; "Invest to Learn" by Sylvia Martinez; "The Path to Purpose" by William Damon and "A Meaningful Mess" by Andi McNair. Their son suggested "Good Leaders Ask Great Questions;" "Lean Start-Up;" and "Zero-to One" In the second half, we spoke with Dr. Clara Walters, the first Black female to become principal of Jones High School. She talks about black excellence within education and has a new book out titled "Leadership that restores hope in school in the African American Community". Relating to our first hour conversation, Dr. Walters talks about kids living up to labels, whether positive or negative. This is why it is important to give them positive labels to exemplify their attitudes. She also emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between parents and educators and working directly with teachers to give them a feel of safety. Teaching teachers how to get the best from their students improves their competence. Advocating for public education and understanding between parents and educators will give children the best academic hope.