This school year has been taxing for me in several ways. I feel like my physical and mental health have both been affected negatively. I definitely needed something to propel me forward for the next few weeks.
The thing that I needed was finally here, the annual Men On A Mission dinner and discussion. This event is part of the annual conference of the Texas Association of Black School Educators. The event brings together Black male educators from every level, paraprofessional to superintendent. The theme was very fitting, Barbershop Talk.
It was energizing to be in a room with so many professionals that look like me and can relate to experiences that I have had working in the education field. The space was filled with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Being able to talk with and connect with other black male educators was amazing.
There are not enough spaces for black male educators to feel safe to express themselves. This is why an event like Men On A Mission is so important. Being free to express how we feel about the current state of education and contemplate ways to make things better was refreshing.
The Men On A Mission dinner is just one event associated with the annual Texas Association of Black School Educators conference. There are sessions for classroom teachers to superintendents. This conference truly has something for everyone. I’m already making plans to attend next year.
My Life In Education… 