By Ms Jheri Worldwide
Staff Writer
A significant new initiative from the NAACP North Carolina State Conference truly resonates with our belief in the power of education and community. Under the leadership of President Deborah Maxwell, the NAACP is launching a robust campaign to celebrate and promote academic excellence among Black students across our state.
This isn’t just another program; it’s a strategic, statewide effort — approved by the NAACP National Board of Directors to identify, recognize, and promote schools where Black African Descendant students are achieving remarkable academic success. The campaign, aptly titled “Best Academic Practice Models for Black Students,” sets out a clear and compelling vision. The focus is crystal clear: Celebrating Proficiency: They aim to spotlight public schools where at least 50% of Black African Descendant students demonstrate proficiency in reading and math on state standardized assessments. Honoring Achievement: The campaign will also recognize local schools where 50% or more of Black African Descendant students achieve a GPA of 2.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) or 70 and above (on a 100-point scale), with no curves or Ds or Fs included. This rigorous standard truly speaks to a commitment to genuine accomplishment.
This initiative is a powerful reminder that our future leaders are forged in the classrooms of today. It underscores the critical need for organizations like the NAACP and our public education system to work hand-in-hand. For our children to thrive, for our communities to prosper, and for our state to continue advancing, we must foster a seamless partnership where innovative organizations champion educational standards and public schools receive the support and recognition they deserve.
This campaign is more than just data points and percentages; it’s about setting a new standard for high academic achievement and highlighting the success stories that will undoubtedly inspire positive changes in North Carolina’s education system. As a writer who believes in the power of a vast vocabulary and the sheer joy of learning, I find this initiative incredibly encouraging. It’s about empowering our youth and ensuring they have every opportunity to reach their full potential. To learn more about this vital campaign, you can reach out to Deborah Dicks-Maxwell, President of the North Carolina NAACP State Conference. For specific details on the “Best Academic Practice Models for Black Students,” Kemeka Sidbury is the NAACP point of contact.
Let’s all champion this collaborative spirit between community organizations and our public education system. Because when we work together, we truly create memorable experiences and pave the way for a brighter, more educated future for all.
