HCDE Superintendent James Colbert Jr. and leaders from various divisions recently attended “A Framework for Schooling: The State of the Black Manchild in Education,” an education conference hosted by the 100 Black Men of Houston focused on the success of African American students in the K-12 environment.

The 100 Black Men of Houston organization’s mission is to enhance educational and economic opportunities for black youth through mentorship and community service. The event brought together K-12 educators, higher education professionals, community partners, and parents to discuss real-world, implementable solutions to improve academic outcomes and education completion for African American students.

On the first day of the event held in downtown Houston, HCDE Officer of Partnerships and Certification from the Center for Educator Success Isaac Carrier led attendees in a workshop on leadership and policymaking titled “Fighting the Good Fight: Narratives of The African American Principalship.”

The following day, Colbert took part in a Superintendent’s Roundtable. He was joined by Houston ISD Superintendent Millard House II, Aldine ISD Superintendent LaTonya Goffney, and new Alief ISD Superintendent Anthony Mays. The superintendent panelists challenged attendees to reevaluate how they support students of color.

With the goal to address the subject holistically at HCDE, division leaders from Head Start, Special Schools, and Adult Education also attended the event. They were joined by Assistant Superintendent of Education and Enrichment CJ Rodgers, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Support Jonathan Parker, and Senior Director of Head Start Venetia Peacock.