2013 Title I Conference

Motivated by years of shameful academic outcomes, Tacoma Public Schools has embarked on a social justice oriented and ambitious initiative to improve academic achievement for its African American male students. By explicitly examining teacher beliefs about students’ learning capabilities, infusing culturally responsive teaching in classrooms and utilizing data strategically, the initiative has catalyzed difficult conversations and changed instructional practices. As an introduction, presenters will share national, state and local data on Black males. Participants will then watch one short video clip from the documentary "Too Important to Fail" that helps to contextualize the crisis faced by schools and cities. Participants will then learn about the components of the TBML initiative, including its theory of action, various interventions and emerging data demonstrating its effect. The presentation will conclude with evidence of changes in teacher practice and expansion plans.