Motivating Black Males to Achieve in School & in Life - In this clarion call for personal responsibility for students, teachers, and families, Kafele offers practical advice and a demanding set of standards. He balances an emphasis on self-esteem with self-discipline, knowing that the former will not be meaningful without the latter. The appendices provide practical lists for students, aspiring leaders, and teachers. His work is consistent with the outstanding work of Carol Dweck of Stanford (a review of her excellent book is forthcoming) and Jeff Howard of the Efficacy Institute. Kafele's personal story and his extensive experience demonstrate that urban students in general and African-American males in particular benefit not from well-intentioned sympathy, but from rigor, high expectations, intensive literacy support, and pride in who they are and who they will become.
Dr. Douglas Reeves
Educator / Author
Founder
It was great to see a plan come together. The staff at Waggener was buzzing after your presentation. We have got some momentum and common talk going that wasn't there before, so thank YOU! As we all know, teaching is the toughest job in the world and I love it. Thank you for reminding me that I am ever growing and learning as a professional. My students will surely benefit!
Kim Harbolt
English Department Chair/Instructional Coach
Waggener High School
Louisville, KY
I want to thank you for coming to Eagle Pass this past week. Your presentation was right on target for what Mr. Sanchez and I both wanted for the Principals and Administrators to hear. I read the evaluations and they were very good. Many of them really reflected on some of the things you brought out on instructional leadership. Each of them has their own strengths and weaknesses and I think you gave them both positive strokes on what they are doing right while giving them some suggestions for improving upon the things that will make them better leaders. Again, thank you so very much.
Barbara Downing
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction
Eagle Pass Independent School District
El Paso, TX
I was browsing the radio stations here in Columbia, SC and happened upon an interview that you were a part of on Radio Station 620. I couldn't believe my ears; stopped my car in a CVS parking lot and sat mesmerized for the next 15 minutes or so listening to you speak in response to the questions asked of you. You are a man after my own heart. I'm a retired educator, who may not have retired and/or would gladly come out of retirement if I could work in your school. My philosophy has always been and forever shall be that with the right attitude from the professionals, all children have the capacity to learn. God bless you and all the best as you strive to bring about this much needed change. Thanks again and again.
Mattie Anderson
Classroom Teacher
Retired
Columbia, SC
I am extremely appreciative of you taking time out from your busy schedule to speak to our students. Students were highly engaged and appreciated and responded to your sincerely. Your message on responsibility and maturity was right on target. Since our program's inception, we have observed an increase in student achievement, and we hope to capitalize on this auspicious start by following this cohort during their years at the high school. The students in your building are very fortunate to have you as their principal; your dedication to education is inspiring. Please accept this plaque recognizing your contributions in helping us elevate our students' performance.