Facilitating Black Excellence: Examining an Urban School's Learning Climate and Approach to Critical Cultural Care

• In Event: Critical Examination of Race, Ethnicity, Class, and Gender in Education Poster Session

Abstract

Studies on urban education and reform often focus on school failure, without exploring the positive impacts of curricula and pedagogy on student achievement. Additionally, existing studies often ignore two central components: school learning climates and concepts of care. This case study research investigates teachers, students, and administrators’ experiences in a high performing urban school in the South. Findings reveal that Septima Clark Academy – SCA – (pseudonym) is uniquely characterized by a family environment, caring teachers, and tough love. The results of this study are crucial given the lack of research on effective school-based practices that promote high achievement in urban and minority students.

Authors

• Marcia J. Watson-Vandiver, Towson University

• Greg Wiggan, University of North Carolina - Charlotte