Working Together

On August 23, the Organization of African-centered Educators and Schools (OACES) sponsored a training for teachers and staff of its 3 member schools - Aisha Shule/WEB DuBois Academy, Nsoroma Institute and Timbuktu Academy of Science and Technology. Below are the topics we covered:

1. Shifting Paradigms: The case for African-centered Education (for walimu (teachers) in their 1st or 2nd years at OACES schools). During this session, Baba Malik Yakini (Nsoroma Institute) presented and led a discussion on the importance of ACE, particularly in this period in history.
2. Mdw Nfr: The concept of good speech (for walimu in OACES school for 3+ years). Baba Akinjide Bonotchi Montgomery (Medew Netcher Study Group of Detroit, Inc.) presented on the process for establishing Kmt (known as Ancient Egypt) foundations in our work as educators.
3. Considerations and Strategies for Instilling African-centered concepts - breakout sessions for teachers in grades k-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12. An mwalimu from each school presented on best practices for instilling ACE concepts in the classroom.
4. Extending the African centered community. Mama Alisa Lee (Timbuktu Academy) presented on how to involve families in the learning community.

The energy was positive and people were engaged. A challenge that many sometimes face involves implementation of African-centered education, particularly when they are learning themselves. The presentations and ensuing discussions helped to address this.

This was a wonderful example of 3 schools with a common purpose working together to get the job done. Thanks to the leadership, staff and faculty for making this happen.