In the era of segregated school systems (and a segregated society), how did African American teachers prepare their students to excel?

1. They established “A Sense of Belonging”.

One of the three critical indicators of student success–a sense of belonging, was an established building block in the segregated education of African American students. The unspoken , “I belong here”, created a comfort level where African American students could put down their protective guard against the daily oppression, prejudice, microaggressions, and blatant slights they experienced outside of the school day. They could bask in a safe environment where creativity and excellence could find unbiased expression–at least from 9 A. M. until 3 P.M.

When educators genuinely celebrate, accept, value, and respect each student, regardless of academic ability, economic level, culture, or background knowledge, a sense of belonging is established for their students.

For example, in my segregated system, our school leaders formed a very close bond with their students’ families. Students knew that their teachers and administrators were trusted adults. School staff members were greatly respected in our communities–bus drivers and custodians were no exception. Suspensions from school were extremely rare. Each elementary teacher–along with the principal, made a yearly home visit, even sharing a meal with the family when possible. The excitement in our house was palpable when preparing for a visit from the principal and my teacher. The same was true for the rest of the community.

How can teachers purposefully establish a sense of belonging in today’s diverse classroom?