What School Counselors and Teachers Need To Know About Black Students

Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting the individuality and potential of Black students in educational settings, advocating for equitable treatment by school counselors and teachers.

Abstract

The article "What School Counselors and Teachers Need To Know About Black Students" outlines 25 essential points for educators to understand and support African American students effectively. It underscores that Black students, like all students, have the capacity for high academic achievement and personal success when treated with dignity and respect. The piece calls for educators to recognize the diverse backgrounds of Black students, learn their names, and avoid stereotypes. It also stresses the importance of believing Black students when they report experiences of racism, similar to the support given to rape survivors in the MeToo Movement. The article encourages teachers to foster an inclusive environment by checking their biases, focusing on the students' strengths, and providing genuine support without imposing personal views or family values. It also advises educators who are uncomfortable with teaching Black students to consider other professions. Ultimately, the article advocates for a professional approach that nurtures a positive mindset in students and ensures their safety and well-being in educational spaces.

Opinions

Educators should treat Black students as individuals with unique abilities and aspirations, rather than making assumptions based on race.
Black parents are as invested in their children's education and future as parents of any other race.
It is crucial to listen to and believe Black students when they express concerns about racism, without requiring proof or dismissing their experiences.
Educators should avoid making Black students feel singled out or inferior by respecting their personal space, including their hair, and not making unfounded assumptions about their parents' professions or educational backgrounds.
Teachers should not steer Black students towards certain majors or careers based on stereotypes but should support their individual academic goals and interests.
Educators must not impose their personal family values on students and should focus on creating a safe and inclusive learning environment.
The article suggests that educators who cannot treat Black students with the same respect and opportunities as other students should reconsider their role in education.
Teachers are urged to do their homework before meeting with Black parents, to listen with empathy, and to avoid making judgments based on their own backgrounds or preconceived notions.
The article emphasizes that educators are professionals who should strive to be positive role models, fostering a classroom atmosphere that encourages growth and recognizes the potential of every student.

25 things to know and understand — -educate yourself and others.

We need more light about each other. Light creates understanding — -Malcolm X

Teaching is a noble profession because we all are a byproduct of outstanding teachers. I can still remember how Professor Umo brought the best out of me and helped me grow as a student and individual.

Who was your best teacher, and why?

Now, your turn —

As a teacher or counselor, take a second and imagine your child as a Black or brown student in your classroom or counseling session.

African American students are children too. Their parents want the same things you want for your children — quality education, world-class health care, and the freedom to enjoy life.

African-American students can learn and master skills quickly if teachers treat them as human beings. Nothing special, but treat black students as white, orange, pink, or green students.

African-American parents want the best for their children as other parents want.

Black parents are social workers, doctors, lawyers, scientists, professors, teachers, musicians, cleaning persons, journalists, hairstylists, etc.

Never put black students in a box.

Black students want to be successful and have a good life.

They want to go to Howard, Yale, Harvard, and State schools and community colleges.

African American students can score As, Bs, Cs, Ds, and Fs.

Learn and know their names. My daughter said, "My teachers always mixed up my name with other black students — 4 years in high school" Please don't mix up their names or their hairstyle.

Never tell them what the future holds. Only God can!

Never ignore them because they can tell. When black students complain about racism, could you not explain it away? Listen to understand and believe them even when there is no proof. We all believe in rape survivors and support the MeToo Movement. Believe black students experience as you would with white or green students bullied because of their physical or learning differences.

Never touch their hair without permission.

Please do not tell African American students that you are afraid of their parents. Any issue with parents, address it with their parents.

Please do not ask them 50 times about their parents' profession because the profession does not fit into the societal expectation of black parents.

Don't refer black students to nursing or psychology majors when they want to go to medical school.

Don't constantly compare them with other students because black students don't compare their teachers to Albert Einstein.

Never impose your family values on them. Teachers and counselors talk about the weather, and Black parents talk about the safety of their children in the classroom, school playgrounds, and on the public roads.

Never downplay their strengths or talent. Instead, use their strengths as a teaching tool. Why? You are a semi-god in the classroom, and young students are likely to believe you.

Please don't fake niceness when you see their parents or Principal.

Do not promise their parents to offer extra help and choose not to help.

African American students don't need your personal view of who they are or what they want in life.

They are human beings and need to be seen, not put in the classroom corner.

Check your biases at the door because you are a professional paid by taxpayers or tuitions.

Join the police force, fire department, or a community church if you're uncomfortable teaching Black students.

If you cannot stand African American students in your classroom, leave the teaching profession.

Teacher/parent conference — do your homework before meeting with Black parents. Listen to understand and hold your judgment. Never assume anything about black parents sitting in front of you. They are not you or from your background. Instead, they're asking for your positive empathy — for their children to be alive and free in America.

Be a change you want to see in the world and be a professional. Yes, you can do good in the classroom and instill a positive mindset in your students.

Thank you for your service.