Exude Excellence

“That’s where I saw all types of Black male teachers who were really instrumental in me deciding that I wanted to become a teacher.” Dr. William McHenry, English Teacher Dr. William McHenry joins us today to share his journey into the classroom. After a nudge from his internship manager to pursue education instead of law, he’s spent the last 20 years supporting Black and Brown students in Chicago. William gets goosebumps as he reflects on the influence his Black male educators had on his development, the various experiences that allowed him to demonstrate excellence (The Other Grammys and supporting the African American club), and why attending Alabama State University was the best decision he ever made (and truly celebrating the beauty of the Yard, come on, bevy of Black folks from all across the land!!). “They tend to believe the standard of excellence is white to begin with.” Dr. McHenry speaks to being deliberate about highlighting Black women in curriculum, being culturally competent without lowering the standard of excellence, and the creative, affirming way his professor took attendance. #Shoutout to the HBCU experience! IG: @BlackEducators.Matter Website: www.blackeducatorsmatter.org Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BlackEducatorsMatter Store: https://teespring.com/stores/black-educators-matter