Dr. Micia Mosely is the Founder & Director of the Black Teacher Project (BTP)
Black teachers are the lifeblood of educational resilience and transformative impact. Across Black history, in the Black present, and for the Black future, they stand at the powerful intersection of history, culture, and hope—embodying a legacy of resistance against systemic inequities while shaping the futures of all students. Their work is a profound act of liberation, grounded in truth, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the boundless potential of every child.
This is why every child deserves a Black teacher.
In classrooms led by Black educators, students gain more than academics—they experience belonging, empowerment, and the affirmation that their stories and potential matter. For Black students especially, having a Black teacher can be life-changing, sparking academic achievement, increased confidence, and a sense of belonging in spaces of power and possibility. For all students, Black teachers cultivate critical lessons in empathy, diversity, and leadership, laying the foundation for stronger, more equitable communities.
As the late, great Nikki Giovanni reminds us, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Black teachers are architects of this change, equipping students to confront inequities and build a future rooted in justice and opportunity.
The Transformative Power of Black Teachers
At the Black Teacher Project (BTP), we believe in the transformative power of Black teachers—undeniable conduits of equity and engines of student success. A 2024 study by the American Educational Research Association confirmed what educators have long known: Black teachers significantly boost academic performance, enhance engagement, and reduce absenteeism for all students. They foster positive behavioral outcomes, create inclusive classrooms, and inspire empathy and leadership. For Black students, Black teachers serve as essential mentors, increasing graduation rates and aspirations for higher education.
Yet, these transformative educators navigate immense responsibilities while working within systems that often fail to prioritize their wellness or provide adequate resources. They act as bridges between schools and communities, mentors for marginalized youth, and agents of systemic change—all within a profession burdened by inequities in pay, resources, and recognition. Despite these challenges, Black teachers persist, turning adversity into opportunities for growth and empowerment.
In today’s climate—where discussions of race and Black history are increasingly restricted—the resilience of Black teachers is even more vital. They are stewards of truth, teaching students to confront injustice and imagine a more equitable future. This work is critical for Black students, who deserve to see themselves reflected in their education, and for all students, who benefit from understanding the complexities of our shared history.
How You Can Support Black Teachers and Why That Support Matters
Teaching is liberation work. It unveils truths, fosters critical thinking, and inspires students to imagine and build a freer, more equitable world. Black teachers are at the forefront of this work, equipping the next generation to reimagine what’s possible and to construct a future rooted in justice, care, and opportunity for all.
Supporting Black teachers is not just about recognizing their immeasurable contributions—it’s about taking action to ensure they thrive. Here are some tangible ways you can make a difference, both in your community and nationwide:
- Engage Locally
- Learn about the Black teachers in your local schools: Are they supported in taking on leadership roles? Are they staying beyond five years?
- Advocate for policies and resources that address the challenges Black teachers face in your district.
- Attend school board meetings to ensure the voices and needs of Black educators are prioritized.
- Champion Equity in Education
- Talk to the young people in your life about their experiences with Black teachers. Are they being taught by Black educators? If not, ask why.
- Support organizations that promote equity-centered professional development for Black teachers and the school leaders that influence how they show up in education.
- Invest in Black Teachers
- Donate to initiatives like the BTP’s Black Teacher Grants program, which directly supports Black educators’ wellness, leadership, and sustainability.
- Host or attend events that amplify the voices of Black teachers, highlighting their transformative impact on students and communities.
Together, these actions ensure that Black teachers can continue to thrive in their work, creating liberated learning environments and shaping futures for all students.
We invite you to join us in honoring the resilience, brilliance, and immeasurable contributions of Black teachers. Whether through advocacy, amplification, or investment, your support ensures every child has access to educators who inspire, uplift, and transform.
Take action today to support Black teachers and build a future where education is a pathway to liberation for every child.
THE NEA FOUNDATION IS COMMITTED TO FEATURING DIVERSE VOICES AND PERSPECTIVES ABOUT CRITICAL ISSUES FACING PUBLIC EDUCATION, STUDENTS, AND EDUCATORS. THESE VIEWS DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THOSE OF THE NEA FOUNDATION.
