Rooted in the Black experience and academic excellence.

MCPS and higher education graduates
MCPS parents
Effective professionals across industries, educational institutions, and leadership levels
Data analysts
Planners
Success evaluators
Trainers
Facilitators
Collaborators

Knowledge of diverse school districts across the DMV and out-of-state
Public and independent school perspectives
Traditional and non-traditional education settings
Youth and adult learning institutions
Rigorous analysis of education equity best practices, research, and programs
Lived experiences navigating anti-Black systems affecting African Americans, the Black diaspora, Black people across socioeconomic levels and with a variety of family structures
Applied emotional intelligence and cultural sensitivity
Courage of conviction to be unapologetically Black-focused

Recognize and respect the diversity of Black communities
Operate as part of the communities we serve
Co-create approaches and programs with community members
Respond to the different needs of youth and adults
Work to sustain solidarity without demanding uniformity
Encourage multigenerational volunteers to "get in where you fit in"
Carefully engage with collaborators, allies, and accomplices who embrace our mission and center Black students
Give and receive grace, love, and rest as acts of agency and resistance for Black people
High expectations that reflect our heritage of Black excellence