At Mastery Schools, celebrating Black culture goes beyond Black History Month. Our network remains steadfast in our unwavering commitment to honoring and celebrating the rich heritages, vital histories, and profound contributions of our Black students, families, and staff. As a mission-driven organization, we actively amplify the voices, stories, and achievements that shape our community.

Student Demographics

With nearly 70% of our student population identifying as Black, Mastery Schools recognizes the critical importance of dismantling the barriers that hinder student success. We are not just committed but actively engaged in ensuring ALL students gain the personal and academic skills they need to pursue their dreams and succeed after graduation.

Culture in the Classroom

Culture and identity play a critical role in student achievement. At Mastery, we embed cultural context into our curriculum to honor and uplift the backgrounds of our students and families. We view culture as a source of opportunity and we empower our staff to create welcoming learning environments in an approach that fosters academic success and nurtures a sense of belonging.

Mastery is also dedicated to empowering Black teachers. In partnership with the Center for Black Educator Development, Mastery proudly sponsors the annual Black Men in Education Convening conference, providing tickets to select staff each year. This investment allows our educators to learn, grow, and connect with a network of peers, further strengthening their ability to create impactful learning experiences for students.

 

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Nikkiba McKiver, a Kindergarten Teacher at Mastery Prep Elementary, exemplifies this commitment.” I went to dozens of interviews, but what stuck out to me about Prep Elementary was the amount of Black and Brown teachers,” she said. “I was able to use my experience growing up in an urban area and bring that to the students and my colleagues.”

Empowering Families, Strengthening Communities

We recognize that our families are essential partners in student success. Mastery Schools actively supports families by providing resources that empower them to understand their rights. Through the Mastery Parent Action Team, we ensure our families are not only informed but also empowered advocates for their children and their communities.

A Workplace Where Black Voices Thrive

Mastery Schools extends its commitment to cultural celebration beyond the classroom, fostering a workplace where staff can authentically celebrate their heritage. We are dedicated to building a workforce where staff members feel seen, valued, and supported. We encourage them to share their unique cultural perspectives with students, enriching the learning experience for all.