Black Minds Matter and Step Up for Students Announce First-Ever Survey of Black Educational Entrepreneurs
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Dallas, Texas (June 5, 2023) – Black Minds Matter (BMM), a project of the American Federation for Children (AFC) today announced a first-of-its kind project, conducted jointly alongside Step Up for Students, to study Black Education Entrepreneurs.
With education entrepreneurship on the rise across the country, Black school founders are central to many emerging stories. BMM and Step Up for Students surveyed Black school founders listed on the Black-owned Schools Directory maintained by Black Minds Matter. The findings offer a fascinating glimpse into the next generation of education leaders and debunk common myths about school choice and its practitioners.
For example:
- 64% are former teachers in traditional public schools.
- 53% identify as Democrats, while 31% identify as No Party Affiliation.
- Significant numbers said their schools are serving students who are predominantly Black, formerly in public schools, and coming in below grade level.
- At the same time, many founders created schools that serve a diverse mix of students, including many with special needs.
- 84% were motivated “to a large extent” to better serve Black students.
- 69% wanted to better teach Black history and the Black experience.
- 77% created private schools or charter schools, but 1 in 5 created micro-schools and/or options that tie into home schooling.
- Their schools are likely to have far higher rates of Black teachers than traditional public schools.
Statement from Denisha Allen, Senior Fellow at AFC and Founder, Black Minds Matter
“With education freedom on the march from coast to coast, more students than ever will get a chance to access an individualized education, and more educators than ever will have the chance to provide it. With this survey, we have the first look at who some of those key leaders are and who they serve. I am excited to continue supporting their rights to nourish Black minds with the power of a high-quality education and am excited to know more about who these programs empower.”
