For the past few years, I’ve taken a deep dive into the vast ocean of our education system. I have been asked for my best advice for Black students but honestly, I often didn’t know what to say. It’s hard enough trying to figure things out as an adult, I cannot imagine being a student within the system.
I deliver inclusion and belonging-focused workshops in schools to student and youth groups. I team up with educators and partner with like-minded parents who are advocating for better within our system. I research and write critiques of the education system.
And of course, I parent two kids in the school system. So, when I can, I get involved in their schools – participating on parent council and volunteering.
My aim has been to figure out the maze-like school system. Oh – and nudge it towards becoming a more equitable and inclusive space.
As I’ve been on this journey, I’ve witnessed and absorbed a lot. Now, in no way have I cracked the code of the system – I can barely keep up with the acronyms! But amid the uncertainty, I have found one truth that stands out to me. The education system is not changing with any kind of quickness – we need to rely on the kids we are raising to change everything. The good news is that from what I see, these kids have everything they need to do just that.
Black students are absolute inspirations.
Let’s talk about these kids – our future leaders. I don’t know who needs to hear this, but some of you are raising kids that are pure fire.
I have seen so much more from students than I would have given them credit for.
I hear elementary-aged children calling out bad behaviours and racism when adults in the room let it slide. Seemingly with an instinctive awareness that they should advocate for themselves and others.
I’ve had the privilege of observing high school students with a level of confidence and poise that leaves me awestruck. From everyday advocates to elected student trustees these kids take the stage at public meetings and in rooms full of elected officials, parents, educational leaders and – in some cases – protesters, these students defend and demand equity.
Students possess a boss-level aura that I, at their age and maybe any age, certainly didn’t have.
Learning from Powerhouse Students provides the best advice for Black students.
As I watched them assert their ideas and command respect, I could not help but wonder: What’s their secret? What formula have these students unlocked that allows them to navigate life with such finesse?
What advice could they give to other Black students? Or even to me!?
Curiosity piqued, I donned my investigator hat and embarked on a mission to unravel the enigma. Each time I interact with students, I try to take in what they are teaching us.
To be clear – this is about so much more than academic success for me. Young people have lessons to teach us about empowerment, resilience, and the potential that resides within each student.
I am sure I have only scratched the surface of the lessons these kids can offer us. We should be so lucky that we could take their magic, bottle it, and share it with the masses.
And what I have learned is more than just great advice for Black students – it’s like uncovering superpowers within these young powerhouses that deserve to be seen.
3 Pieces of Advice to Unlock Black Student Superpowers:
The first advice for Black students? Take up space. All the space. Especially the spaces where you are least expected to be.
Boss students are all about taking up space. And I mean all the space. Not just the comfortable nooks, but those tight corners where they are least expected to be.
From my observations, empowered Black students don’t tiptoe into rooms – they strut. They don’t hunch their shoulders or shrink themselves – they walk in with their heads held high. They have done the work. They have knowledge, confidence, and an unshakable belief that this space is as much theirs as anyone else’s.
It’s like these students walk in with an invisible spotlight only they can see. They claim their rightful place in a world that sometimes forgets they have every right to be there.
And I have absolutely felt this vibe outside of the academic space. Boss Black students, athletes, chess champions or whatever – do not shy away from the places or people that might raise eyebrows.
Be it a classroom, a boardroom, or a stage where your passions shine, the most successful Black students seem to know that each step they take is a statement. Unknowingly or not, they make a declaration that says, “I belong, and I’m here to stay.”
The second piece of advice for Black students is to embrace the DNGAF spirit.
The pressure to fit into someone else’s mold can feel suffocating. Especially when the education system comes with its own biases, whispering that it expects less from Black students.
But the students who I see shining, are not contorting themselves into something they are not. Successful Black students wear their authenticity like a crown – a symbol that says, “This is me, take it or leave it.”.
Do not get this wrong, DNGAF spirit is not rebellion or arrogance; it’s fiercely embracing your identity. In fact, if done right, everyone around you feels emboldened to do the same.
The vibe these students radiate is a confidence that exudes self-love and acceptance. They effortlessly meet people where they are, offering a haven of acceptance and understanding.
Those student trustees I see in board meetings? They’re like walking billboards for authenticity and electricity. Their passion for equity and the rights of others is rooted in their own genuine embrace of who they are. It’s a chain reaction, an empowerment cycle that keeps growing.
Being genuine isn’t just a style – it’s a superpower. It cracks open doors to the most authentic connections, nurturing empathy and understanding. It’s the key that allows successful students to engage with the world on their own terms and spark that transformative ripple of positive change. And let me tell you when they start asking those big, challenging questions? That’s when the magic really happens – trust me, I’ve seen it.
Let the DNGAF spirit be like an armour. It’s a superhero shield that guards a Black student’s self-worth. It deflects the noise of others’ opinions and anchors their decisions in authenticity.
We can all take this advice from the most successful Black students. Embrace your uniqueness, let it shine, and let others find their light too.
Black students need to lean into their unique power.
Now, here’s the thing: power isn’t always about making a grand entrance or shouting from the rooftops. Sometimes, it’s that quiet strength humming within you, waiting for the perfect moment to light up the room.
Let me take you back to a time when I was on the brink of being “streamed” by a teacher. She had decided “people like me” did better in general or basic level courses and guided me on this path as I selected my high school courses. It was my Black classmates who turned out to be my secret weapon, my superpower. They cut through the biased advice, saw potential in me, and encouraged me to sign up for advanced courses. They may have no idea what their encouragement meant – they were like my cape-wearing superhero, swooping in to save the day and change my trajectory.
Our students are the definition of dedication, determination, and resourcefulness. We have all seen it firsthand – countless incidents and injustices brought to light because a young soul dared to pick up a phone, record the truth, speak to a trusted adult, or go live to share their story.
But their unique wellspring of power isn’t limited to these dramatic moments.
Sure, a student might use their power to do something “big” such as capturing injustice, engaging in debates or using their social media presence to spread truth like wildfire. But their power could also be shown through their unwavering belief in their friends. It could be shown by leaning on parents or trusted adults for help. Using one’s power could look like standing with someone who needs support to speak their truth.
Whatever power they lean into, these boss students know they have their own, unique brand of magic.
What can parents do to support Black students?
To all you incredible parents out there, tirelessly creating and supporting these awe-inspiring kids, I tip my crown to you. Whenever I witness your children making their mark, I can’t help but envision the powerful village that’s been there, uplifting and propelling them forward.
Undoubtedly, your current efforts wield a transformative influence. And most people would not ask more… but here’s the thing, I’m not most people.
While your support is already a formidable force, there’s a vital dimension that deserves our attention.
Even the most fierce, authentic, and empowered youngsters require you to be their shield against a system that’s often resistant to change.
The education system isn’t always as receptive to change as we might wish. In a system that loves to disproportionately punish Black kids, these exceptional young minds require more than just your unwavering endorsement. They need us parents to be unwavering advocates, we have to embrace their unique light, and be ready to walk alongside them as they face any obstacles.
Even the most empowered student needs to be equipped with one powerful phrase: “I am going to need you to call my [insert caring adult here].” In our family, my kids know asking the school to call mom is our bat signal. I will come to their immediate, unquestioned defence, aid or support.
The path to success for our students isn’t always straightforward. It’s paved with hurdles, biases, and systemic obstacles that demand more than just their own efforts. Our students need a relentless advocate in their corner. Someone willing to tirelessly navigate the complexities of a system that often falls short.
In short, parents have to have their Black students’ back always. Period.
The best advice for Black students acknowledges their experiences and empowers them.
Amidst an education system that often stumbles towards progress, the potential of our students remains boundless.
The presence of these remarkable students is a declaration of power. Every inch they occupy, every space they claim, is a testament to their unwavering strength. The best advice for Black students is to follow this lead and embrace your authenticity as a shield against the pressures of conformity. Your unique light has the power to ignite a path.
As parents, we can’t be everywhere all at once. Conversations I have with fellow parents often circle back to our shared educational experiences from back in the day and our recognition of the hurdles Black students still face. These conversations are vital. If you’re seeking a starting point for support, look no further than our FREE guide to help you identify some unmistakable signs that your school needs a healthy dose of inclusion. You’ll also find tips to help you ignite all-important conversations that matter, whether these conversations be with your child, school leaders, or fellow parents.
Our students’ voices are a force to be reckoned with, their actions a wellspring of change. In the face of challenges, they should never underestimate their potential to make an impact.
