What Are Liberatory School Spaces?
An environment where teachers and students are free to reach their genius—where equitable education is prioritized, Restorative Practices form the foundation, educators are supported, and ALL have the right to high-quality, transformative educational experiences.
Our Education System is in DIRE Need of a Profound Transformation
57%
Of schools in high-poverty neighborhoods are understaffed and struggle to retain teachers.
1.3%
Only 1.3% of the current teaching force is Black men.
5X
Black and Brown students lose approx. 5X the number of days of school due to suspension compared to White students.
31%
Black students score 31% lower than their white counterparts.
We're Delivering Transformative Education
How We Do It
Developing School Leaders and Teachers
BMEA partners with schools to support leadership and staff in developing a relationship-centered school culture using Restorative Practices. We also help develop and implement an instructional model that increases student independence.
BMEA's Principal and Teacher Wellness Professional Learning Communities are education equity programs: two-year co-ed fellowship programs that equip school staff with culturally responsive leadership and professional development strategies.
Youth Leadership Development
An intergenerational mentoring model, operating year-round, previously serving over 250 students across seven school sites in Metropolitan Detroit. This program focuses on workforce and leadership development, mathematics proficiency, and creating pathways for Black males to enter the teaching profession or pursue STEM careers.
Thanks to generous support from philanthropic entities and donors, we are doubling the number of schools in our Youth Leadership Development Program for the 2024-25 school year, expanding our reach across Metropolitan Detroit.
System & Policy Reform
BMEA works with local and state entities to advocate for policies and system changes that transform schools and make them more equitable spaces for all.
At the heart of genuine school transformation and equitable education lies a need for creative and innovative approaches. This requires a holistic evaluation of what we teach, how we teach, and how we engage with families and students.
Equally important is the support and development of teachers and school leaders, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the educational experience. This is the foundation of our framework.
The Way Forward: with Dr. Curtis L. Lewis
BMEA Founder Dr. Curtis L. Lewis created The Way Forward podcast to spotlight and discuss issues impacting the educational landscape. He shares opinions on pressing issues and interviews educational experts to discuss solutions.
The Latest News
Our work is made possible in part through the generosity and support of the following funders and partners:
