Media Contact
Yolanda Raine
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
202-809-2011
media@cbcfinc.org

Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF), and Jonathan Cox Vice President, Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR) issued the following statement on the 70^th Anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education.

As we commemorate the 70th Anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education, we stand at a critical juncture in our nation’s ongoing journey toward equality and justice for all. This landmark Supreme Court decision, handed down on May 17, 1954, was a pivotal moment in our history, striking down the doctrine of “separate but equal” and affirming the fundamental principle that separate educational facilities are inherently unequal, laying the groundwork to dismantling legal segregation nationwide.

Seven decades have passed since that historic ruling, yet the promise of Brown remains unfulfilled for far too many children across America. Despite significant progress , systemic barriers to quality education persist, disproportionately impacting communities of color and perpetuating cycles of inequality and injustice. “We know that race continues to impact the educational experiences and opportunities of students throughout the country,” says Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the CBCF. “This is evident by ongoing court cases attacking efforts to maintain desegregation in schools; recent efforts to ban books in K-12 schools, many of which feature authors and characters of color; restrictive legislation that limits how schools can address race and diversity; and the perpetuation of inaccurate and incomplete history regarding Black Americans that undermines the integrity of American education.”

As we reflect on the legacy of Brown, we are reminded of the urgent need to redouble our efforts to dismantle these barriers and ensure that every child has access to a high-quality education, regardless of race, ethnicity, or zip code. Education is the cornerstone of opportunity, and it is incumbent upon us to ensure that every child has the tools and resources they need to succeed.

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation remains committed to advancing policies and initiatives that promote equity and excellence in education. Through our Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR), we will continue to advocate for equitable school funding, culturally responsive curricula, and supportive learning environments that empower all students to thrive. “Integrated, diverse schools provide benefits for all students,” says Dr. Jonathan Cox, Vice President for CPAR, “including increased critical thinking skills, limiting biased attitudes, and cross-racial interactions that positively impact understanding of diverse viewpoints and prepare students for a diverse workforce.”  The principles upheld in Brown also underlie the Foundation’s creation of the Leadership Institute, which provides educational and leadership development opportunities designed to increase the pool of future Black leaders in public service and in corporate America.

As we look to the future, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of Brown vs. Board of Education and the vision of a more just and equitable society. Together, we can build a brighter future for all our children, where every dream is within reach and every voice is heard.

# # #

About the CBCF

Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org.

As a 501(c)(3), the CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency.

The post CBCF Statement on the 70th Anniversary of Brown vs. Board of Education appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Media Contact:
Yolanda Raine
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
media@cbcfinc.org
202-809-2011

(Washington, D.C.) – The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with The Tracking Foundation, resulting in a generous contribution of $4 million in scholarships to support the education and empowerment of Black American students across the nation.

The Tracking Foundation, known for its commitment to fostering educational opportunities and promoting equality, has chosen the CBCF as a strategic partner to advance their shared mission of creating pathways for success in higher education.

Representative Terri A. Sewell, Chair of the CBCF Board of Directors, expressed her gratitude for the transformative impact of this collaboration, stating, “This generous contribution from Stephen Feinberg through The Tracking Foundation will significantly enhance our ability to empower the next generation of Black American leaders through education. We are deeply appreciative of Mr. Feinberg and his foundation’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and breaking down barriers for students who aspire to reach their full potential.”

Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, shared, “I am thrilled to announce the momentous partnership with The Tracking Foundation, resulting in a transformative $4 million scholarship endowment. This generous contribution underscores our shared commitment to breaking down barriers and empowering Black American students through education. With the support of The Tracking Foundation, the CBCF will continue to champion academic excellence and create pathways to success for generations to come.”

Cedric Richmond, who is a former Congressman, White House Advisor, and Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, also weighed in on the partnership, emphasizing the importance of investing in education as a means to drive positive change. “Education is the key to unlocking doors of opportunity and building a brighter future for our communities. The collaboration between The Tracking Foundation and the CBCF underscores the vital role education plays in creating lasting change,” said Richmond.

The $4 million scholarship fund will be instrumental in supporting students pursuing higher education, providing financial assistance to those who may face economic barriers to realizing their academic goals. The CBCF is committed to ensuring that these scholarships have a meaningful impact on the lives of students and contribute to the broader goal of advancing equity in education.

The Tracking Foundation’s dedication to making a difference in the lives of underrepresented communities aligns seamlessly with the mission of the CBCF. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in creating opportunities for Black American students to excel academically and contribute to positive social change.

For additional information about the CBCF and our initiatives, please visit cbcfinc.org.

###

About the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF)

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit organization that advances the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. The CBCF is committed to empowering the next generation of Black American leaders through education, scholarship, and community engagement.

The post Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Awarded $4 Million in Scholarships from The Tracking Foundation appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Media Contact
Yolanda Raine
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
202-809-2011
yraine@cbcfinc.org

Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, issued the following statement on U.S. Supreme Court Decision on the Use of Affirmative Action in Higher Education

Washington, D.C. – Today, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) expresses deep concern and profound disappointment in the US Supreme Court’s decision to end affirmative action as we know it in the college admissions process. This decision overturns years of precedent and undermines decades of progress made towards achieving racial equity and promoting diversity in our educational institutions, a core part of CBCF’s mission.

Affirmative action has been a critical tool in addressing historical injustices and systemic barriers faced by underrepresented communities, particularly Black Americans. It has provided a pathway for equal access to education and employment opportunities that were previously denied due to discrimination and prejudice. By dismantling affirmative action policies, we risk eroding the progress we have made towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

The CBCF firmly believes that diversity in our educational institutions and workplaces is not only a moral imperative but also a vital component of a thriving democracy. Race-conscious admissions policies have been instrumental in fostering diverse learning environments and producing invaluable educational benefits for all students, demonstrated by decades of research, which the Supreme Court disregards. Racially diverse campuses enrich educational experiences and outcomes, increase and improve civic engagement, and better prepare students to navigate an increasingly diverse workforce. CBCF, through our Leadership Institute, has robust internship, fellowship, and scholarship programs because we believe the same. Today’s decision ensures that opportunities for future leaders who are yet to be known have been severely diminished.

Ending the use of race-based admissions policies in higher education will have far-reaching consequences, exacerbating existing disparities, and perpetuating inequality. While many believe these policies are no longer necessary, the data show otherwise, as seen in the state of Michigan, for example: Black undergraduate student enrollment saw a 44 percent drop after race-conscious admissions decisions were banned. As Justice Jackson writes in her poignant dissent in the University of North Carolina case, “deeming race irrelevant in law does not make it so in life…race still matters to the lived experiences of all Americans in innumerable ways, and today’s ruling makes things worse, not better.” It is crucial that we continue to pursue policies and initiatives that promote equal opportunities for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, or other background.

The CBCF remains committed to advocating for policies that uplift marginalized communities and eradicate systemic discrimination. We will continue to work tirelessly with lawmakers, civil rights organizations, and community leaders to address the challenges presented by this decision and fight for justice, equality, and inclusion for all.

We urge policymakers, educators, and advocates to come together and explore alternative strategies that can effectively advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in our educational institutions and workplaces. By working collaboratively, we can ensure that every American has a fair chance to succeed.

###

About the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is a nonprofit organization focused on advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. Through its scholarships, internships, and fellowships, the CBCF equips young leaders with the skills and knowledge to address the challenges facing Black communities. To learn more, visit www.cbcfinc.org.

The post CBCF Expresses Deep Concern on SCOTUS Ruling on Affirmative Action appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

                                                                                                                     CONTACT

Anne Williams
(202) 263-2800
media@cbcfinc.org

WASHINGTON—The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) today announced its partnership with the Embassy of Japan in the creation of a new study abroad experience for college students. The Emerging Leaders: U.S.-Japan Kakehashi Project offers educational activities and excursions during an eight-day trip to Tokyo, Japan. As part of the organization’s commitment, CBCF president and chief executive officer, A. Shuanise Washington will lead the inaugural delegation on the eight-day trip, which begins March 15.

Students will experience Japan through seminars on Japanese culture, history, language, in addition to U.S.-Japan relations. The program includes interactions with local students and tours of cultural attractions. Through this initiative, the CBCF and the Embassy of Japan aim to promote African-American interest in careers and study options involving U.S.-Japan relations and expand opportunities for African-Americans in an era of increasing globalization.

“The U.S.-Japan Kakehashi Project embodies the CBCF’s mission to advance the global black community through explorations of diverse cultures,” said A. Shuanise Washington, president and chief executive officer of the CBCF. “We look forward to working with the Embassy of Japan to create a meaningful and long-lasting relationship.”

“A people-to-people exchange is one of the cornerstones of the Japan-U.S. relationship, so I hope these future leaders of the black community gain insights from their visits to academic, cultural, and political sites across Japan,” said Ambassador Kenichiro Sasae of the Embassy of Japan. “We are thrilled to partner with the CBCF on this important initiative.”

The inaugural cohort is comprised of 15 students representing Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) member districts. Following are inaugural cohort participants:

• • Brittany Bellinger, SUNY Empire State College
  • LaVontae Brooks, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
  • Samuel Buchanan, Morehouse College
  • Leah Castleberry, Howard University
  • David Coble, Emory University
  • Deanna-Kaye Daley, Xavier University of Louisiana
  • Maya Jenkins, The Ohio State University
  • Kylan Kester, Morehouse College
  • Alexaundria Leonard, McDaniel College
  • Ijeoma Oti, University Southern California
  • Clarece Polke, Florida A&M University
  • D’Juan Sampson, Florida State University
  • Brandon Stuart, The University of Chicago
  • Angelica Willis, North Carolina A&T State University
  • Dennzon Winley, University of South Carolina

To learn more about the Emerging Leaders: U.S.-Japan Kakehashi Project, visit cbcfinc.org.

ABOUT CBCF
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF), established in 1976, is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research and educational institute, committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public.

###

The post CBCF President & CEO to Lead Inaugural Japan Study Abroad Delegation appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

In September, I attended an informational event about Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in the U.S. When I asked what was needed when it comes to STEM education, a panelist responded that the government must incentivize the business community to give students relevant and rigorous opportunities. Students need the opportunity to deeply engage in STEM fields and gain skills for careers which would provide them a comfortable living wage. Apprenticeship programs fit this mold, but the model in the United States is severely underdeveloped and lacks the company interest to revolutionize the way we train future workers.

Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce found that by 2018, there will be a shortage of U.S. workers with recognized postsecondary credentials, including 4,700,000 workers with certificates. Apprenticeship programs can fill this gap by combining on the job training and related instruction. Apprenticeships bring benefits such as increased wages, improved skills, increased retention and greater productivity.  Forty-five percent of all jobs over the next decade will be “middle skills” jobs, positions which require more than a high school diploma, but less than a bachelor’s degree. Many of these middle skills jobs require STEM capabilities. Unfortunately, Job creation by employers for middle skilled workers likely depends partly on their perceived costs of finding and generating workers. Currently U.S. employers are likely to offshore or outsource this work instead of funneling resources into an apprenticeship program.

Those opposed to creating a solid apprenticeship model in the United States often make price the principle reason. Though apprenticeship programs do require significant investment of resources, there are both federal workforce and education funds available to offset some costs and the return on investment is quite large. Apprentices who qualify for Pell grants can use those funds and higher education institutions can also use Federal Work Study (FWS) funds for wages as well as to support employers in creating programs. Workforce Investment and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds can be used for training and tuition costs, coverage for supervision, and additional recruiting, placement and support services.  A 2012 evaluation of registered apprenticeship programs by Mathematica Policy Research showed a tax return of $27 for every $1 the federal government invested in registered apprenticeship programs and a total benefit of $35 per dollar invested.

The topic of youth apprenticeships is also a contentious issue because opponents say encouraging students to pursue apprenticeships discourages them from pursuing a college education, making apprenticeships unattractive to employers with degree requirements.  Not all apprenticeships are divorced from community colleges and universities, however. The Employment and Training Administration under the U.S. Department of Labor oversees the Registered Apprenticeship College Consortium (RACC).  RACC is a group of employers, labor management groups and associations that have apprenticeship programs. The consortium includes both two and four year postsecondary institutions that accept credit from the apprenticeship towards the completion of a degree or certificate program.

The business community must get more involved in the creation and sustaining of apprenticeship programs, but may need greater incentives to do so. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tim Scott (R-SC) hoped to incentivize businesses to get on board with the Leveraging and Energizing America’s Apprenticeship Programs (LEAP) Act, which they introduced in 2015. The LEAP Act would offer a federal tax credit for businesses that hire new apprentices registered under the Department of Labor and would encourage hiring apprentices under the age of 25. Apprenticeships, especially those in STEM fields, fill a growing need in the American labor force. They give companies an opportunity to shape their workforce to fit their exact needs while providing real, usable skills to those leaving high school and beyond.

The post Filling the Gap: Why America Needs More Company Buy-In to Build its Apprenticeship Model appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

By Darold Hamlin, 

50 years ago in Selma, Alabama African Americans took a stand for social justice that shifted the consciousness of a nation.

Today, America is seemingly once again on the brink when it comes to social justice – Ferguson, Baltimore and now the University of Missouri.  Is it the precursor of things to come because of lack of economic participation fuels hopelessness for many people of color?  Will this become a more common occurrence as black and brown people will be the majority in just 25 years from now?

The question we must then ask ourselves as a nation (E Pluribus Unum, Out of Many We are One), at such a moment, beyond the protests and righteous anger is this: What is the solution to help bring African American and minority communities into the mainstream of America and the global economy of the 21^st century?

We believe that the time has come for us to finish the work of the great Civil Rights marches and movements of the 20^th century by focusing a national agenda on true economic empowerment, high-tech job creation, and wealth building in communities of color. We can do this through research and development partnerships with the federal government, tech and innovation companies, and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs).

To be specific: it starts with Presidential Executive Order 13532 — Promoting Excellence, Innovation, and Sustainability at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) – that directs federal agencies to work with MSIs to garner their fair share of the over $135 Billion this country spends annually on Research and Development.  At the same time, MSIs who make up more than six percent of the nation’s research institutions, only receive less than one percent of the funds according to a report published by the Congressional Research Service.

Earlier this year, Johns Hopkins University President Daniels wrote a powerful piece on the “Graying of R&D dollars” (http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702304026804579411293375850348). He was spot on about the problem that is being created by an R&D system that sends a majority of its dollars through the hands of older white male researchers.

A little known, but important fact is that MSI/HBCUs produce the majority of America’s talented researchers of color. The challenge they face, however, is that the schools don’t have the infrastructure or resources to compete with established research universities.  MSI/HBCU’s have two factors against them.  First, as aforementioned, our top majority universities get a disproportionate amount of federal R&D money. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/27/universities-government-money_n_3165186.html   Secondly, the peer review process that is required to win a research grant before becoming a recipient is onerous at best.  Over the last 50 years the gap has widened between the schools that win research grants and those who do not.  Today, 100 out of the 650 research institutions get (80%) eighty percent of the R&D dollars.  Broadening the pool for the distribution of research dollars is an American issue. It is not just a black or brown issue.

To sum up our point: MSIs can help America better compete in the 21^st Century global economy and create real jobs and employment opportunities for America’s next generation as well.  First, MSIs must receive the research funding to complement the research already being done. This must be a priority for the Congress.  It should start with Minority Health Disparities Research because that is the field where minorities have the highest concentration of research professionals.  The Federal Government spends $2.7B a year on why minorities are not as healthy as the rest of the population; yet MSI/HBCUs do very little of the research.  A portion of those research dollars must be targeted and put in the hands of talented minority researcher so they can develop the next remedies for hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, new medical data and diagnostics systems.

Secondly, we must maximize STEM researchers and their opportunity to conduct research that will lead to the creation of new economy companies creating good paying jobs.  Next, we need to create business networks around those talented researchers, so that when a new discovery is created, they have the business and financial support to turn the research into next generation products and services.  This is a paradigm shift for minority business development in America that focuses on services contracts.  Finally, state and local governments must provide incentives for next generation companies to locate in and around our disenfranchised communities and train the local residents. Technology companies need a wide variety of workers with different skill sets.  This is the same model implemented successfully by our foreign competitors i.e. Israel, China and India.

We believe that the critical missing link to how we address inequities in the social and criminal justice system in America is to level the playing field in job creation, innovation, technology and STEM in communities of color.  This generation of researchers, for example, can be involved in the creation of the next generation medical imaging system or patient management systems that can not only reduce health care costs and improve the population readiness for military service, but also contributes to the economy by producing these new products and services in every community.

Yes, it is important that we continue to march and raise our voices when social injustice rears its ugly head, but what we need now is an economic action strategy that will prepare all Americans to be part of the 21^st Century global economy. Economic inclusion was a very big part of Dr. King’s vision for America. He summed it up best in his “it is not just a legal or moral question, but a matter of economics as well.”  The riots should motivate us to focus our national resources on winning the innovative war of the 21^st Century that will create new economy companies and jobs in every community.  President Obama was right when he said we must “Win the Future.”

The post How Innovation Must Be Part of the Solution to Address Income Inequality and Racial Tension appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

The post Brown V. Board of Education: 61 Years Later & the Implications of All Deliberate Speed appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

WASHINGTON—A. Shuanise Washington, president and chief executive officer of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF), today announced that the CBCF joined the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Tech 2020 initiative, a taskforce formed to identify strategies and best practices for including more African Americans in careers in science technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

“In the 21st Century, African Americans must be a part of the exponential growth of the tech industry,” said A. Shuanise Washington, president and chief executive officer of the CBCF. “The CBCF is committed to its global mission to develop the next generation of black leaders. We, along with the CBC, realize the economic and educational well-being of African Americans depends on our readiness for current tech jobs, and those yet to be created.”

According to the National Science and Math Initiative, 92% of traditional STEM jobs will be available to those with at least some post-secondary education and training by 2018. The CBCF signed onto the CBC’s Tech 2020 pledge in a move that expands the CBCF’s efforts to build a strong STEM-pipeline for African Americans beyond its Leadership Institute for Public Service and Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR).

The CBCF’s Leadership Institute is helping African Americans ready for STEM career opportunities through its fellowships, internships, scholarships and a China study abroad program. The fellowships and internships offer hands-on experience working on Capitol Hill in public policy, specifically in energy, health, technology and related public policy areas. And, scholarship opportunities provide critical financial support to those pursuing collegiate studies in STEM majors. The Emerging Leaders: US-China Study Delegation, which recruits students pursuing studies in STEM and business, offers a two-week immersion in Chinese culture, business and U.S.-China relations, with an eye toward preparing for a global economy.

In addition, CPAR will address African-American access to STEM jobs through its New Horizons Initiatives outlined below.

• CPAR Future Focus Forum – A panel will explore and discuss the economic growth benefits and opportunities that come with more African-American representation in STEM fields.
• CPAR Issue Brief – A report will examine systemic causes and evaluate and identify evidence-based strategies, programs and initiatives to increase African-American representation.
• CPAR HBCU and STEM Preparedness Report – A comprehensive report analyzing challenges facing HBCUs STEM programs, operations, growth and funding initiatives.
• CPAR/National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) – CPAR and NSBE will explore new ways to create an employment training toolkit, organize and implement community engagement and informational opportunities.

“The CBCF is looking forward to seeing great results through the CBC Tech 2020 initiative. Together, we can positively impact disparities in STEM fields and improve the way in which cutting-edge science, technology and engineering positively impact communities throughout the world,” concluded A. Shuanise Washington.

###

The post CBCF Joins CBC on New 2020 Tech Launch appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

In May, the CBCF takes a moment to acknowledge the historic Brown v. Board ruling that ended the legal foundation for discrimination on May 17, 1954. For more than six decades, African Americans have made significant strides as a result of the court decision. Today, we are afforded more educational and professional opportunities. President Barack Obama, Attorney General Eric Holder, and now Attorney General Loretta Lynch represent the progression we have made from the days of Jim Crow in 1954. But even with this groundbreaking ruling, the CBCF realizes that discriminatory practices still exists in our educational system, and more needs to be done to close the achievement gap among our black youth—particularly young black men.

According to the latest report from the Schott Foundation for Public Education, the nation’s black male students graduate from high school at 59 percent, Latino males at 65 percent and white or non-Latino males at 80 percent. In 2012, the black male graduation rate was 52 percent, Latino males 58 percent and white or non-Latino males at 78 percent. Although the statistics seem to have slightly improved in each category, the report suggests that the achievement gap still persists between students of color and their white peers.

The CBCF calls attention to this issue by examining the systemic factors involved—many of which have been highlighted by the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans. Factors like the lack of college-ready curriculums in black school districts compared to predominantly white school districts; another factor is the absence of qualified teachers educating our students, who actually look like the students they teach; and investing in high quality early child care and education programs. The CBCF addresses these issues through our Annual Legislative Conference, and by having regular policy discussions, community forums and town halls throughout the year.

For the black students who have academically excelled despite the educational obstacles some of them may face, the CBCF provides scholarship opportunities through our Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Spouses Education Fund. Since 1988, the CBC Spouses Education fund has provided $11 million in scholarships for deserving students nationwide.

I appreciate the doors Brown v. Board opened for black people. Without this legislation, African Americans would not enjoy the privileges and rights our ancestors were denied. Although the struggle for equity in educating our youth still remains a challenge—I’m glad organizations like the CBCF, the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans and many others are working collaboratively in hopes of eliminating these disparities within the next 60 years.

Tim Pulliam is an award-winning journalist. He’s covered a range of topics from politics, minority and community issues to tropical storms and crime. After serving nearly 10 years as a TV reporter/fill-in anchor in various television markets, Tim now handles public relations for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated.  Tim is from Raleigh/Durham, NC. He is a graduate of Winston-Salem State University.

The post “CBCF Perspectives” OPINION: CBCF Remembers the 61st Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

In classrooms all over the nation, elementary school students will soon be celebrating the 100th Day of School! By the 100th day of school, students are 100 days smarter, 100 days older and have learned (hopefully) more than 100 new things. As parents, here are 10 things you should have done  within the first 100 days of school.

1. Asked your children how they feel the school year is going. Hold an intentional conversation on the “State of the School Year” and listen to your child talk about how the year has been so far. Ask if they have any concerns about things coming up or even if they want to explain something that happened earlier in the year.
2. Reached out to your child’s teacher just because. Sent an email or made a phone call and asked how things are going with your child. Remind the teacher that you are a member of your child’s academic team and that you’re always available to connect with them, not just at conference time.
3. Joined the school PTA. The PTA is a partnership between parents and schools but they need your support to be successful. Many PTAs provide supplies to teachers and schools to help supplement shrinking budgets.
4. Assigned your child one learning assignment outside of the school curriculum. It doesn’t matter if they’re in a gifted program or a special education program, your child should understand the concept of lifelong learning.
5. Turned off the TV for a family reading night. Visit your local library and everyone should find a book that appeals to their interests. Introducing your children to the joy of reading can have an impact in every subject area.
6. Visited your local school boards website at least once. The local school board offers a wealth of information about new policies, curriculum and testing updates, opportunities and more. Make it a practice to just check in to see what the most current news is for your school.
7. Offered to volunteer at your child’s school. Volunteering doesn’t only have to occur during the day. Most schools have things that can be done offsite (like cutting out letters or making copies), in the evenings or on weekends.
8. Attended a school spirit event. Try making a sports event, a concert, the book fair, a fundraiser night or any other event at their school. Making their school events a priority shows your child that you value their school.
9. Thought about where your child is going to school next year. If this year hasn’t been the best for your child, you may want to consider your options for next year. If your school hasn’t made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) goals under No Child Left Behind, you have the option to transfer to a school that is making progress.
10. Finally, made a deposit into a 529 or other savings plan for your child’s college tuition. It’s okay to start small but the idea of paying for college should be on your mind because it will be a pressing concern much sooner rather than later.

The post Ten To-Dos for Parents on the 100th Day of School appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.