Highest and Best Use

“It was my Black teachers who got me through those times.” Mr. Jeff Carmon Adjunct Professor, North Carolina Central University School of Law Jeff Carmon "You can't control how people view you. You can control how you respond to their perception." Have you ever examined the power of a community and school working together? On today’s episode, we are joined by Adjunct Professor Jeff Carmon, who combines his passion for community, history and law in the classroom. Reflecting on his small town upbringing, Jeff speaks on the parallels between a Ronald Reagan statement as a child and recent Trump rhetoric, the barriers that prevent Black educators from entering the field, and the consequences of love not being established in the home. “Because of their strength, I must carry on.” What is Black shame, and why don’t we share our stories with one another? What is the missing connection between Black teachers and students (and why it’s important for us to know our history!)? If the performance gap is continuing to grow… what is the system set up to do for Black students? Jeff answers these questions, provides words of wisdom to new educators, and highlights why he can remember every Black teacher since Kindergarten.

Om Podcasten

Teachers are Earth's Mightiest Superheroes and their stories can inspire generations. The Black Educators Matter: Project 500 Podcast is on a journey to share the stories of 500 Black educators. Why? Research shows that Black students who have even one Black teacher are more likely to graduate, attend college, and see themselves reflected in positions of leadership. White students also benefit from learning from a diverse teaching force. This podcast is necessary because storytelling is the bridge that connects data to humanity—showing the world why Black educators matter.