When I reflect on the experiences that have most profoundly impacted my life, my time at Uncommon Excellence Boys Charter School, a PreK-8 school in Bedford-Stuyvesant, stands out. It wasn’t just a school for me; it was a place that molded my character, sharpened my intellect, and prepared me for life’s challenges. Excellence Boys provided more than just an education; it fostered a sense of brotherhood and instilled values that continue to guide me.
Sadly, my story is extraordinarily rare. And young Black boys often don’t have male role models in the classroom to guide them and foster a sense of belonging. Why does this all matter? The dropout rates from high school for Black male students after an encounter with a single Black male educator decrease by 39%, and their college aspirations increase by 19%.
I remember one pivotal moment when I struggled in math class. My teacher spent time after school and on the weekends helping me understand the material. This dedication and persistent support gave me a better grasp of the subject matter and showed me the value of perseverance and seeking help when needed. Admittedly, as a shy young boy, it was much easier to ask for help from a teacher that I could relate to. There was no fear of judgment, and he told me his own stories about overcoming his fear of math.
Bottom line: Excellence Boys fostered an environment where failure wasn’t the end but rather an opportunity to improve. I wouldn’t be the first to fail and neither the last to improve. I could thrive, and it would feel fulfilling to defy challenges. I wish this on all young black men across the country. We just want to be seen, heard, and respected — and the classroom oftentimes is the first place where many are belittled.
We need to tackle this issue head-on because Black boys have continually performed lower in school than other demographics and have higher dropout rates in middle schools and high schools. Brooklyn boys can undoubtedly benefit from attending a school like Excellence Boys. At Uncommon Schools, 8% of teachers are Black males, more than four times the national average and double the number in New York City. This stark difference in representation matters. The structured environment, high academic standards, culturally relevant, responsive teaching practices, and focus on character development provided by Black males further strengthen a strong foundation for future success. The school doesn’t just teach you how to solve equations or write essays; it teaches you how to think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate with others. It prepares boys to be scholars and leaders in their communities.
All young boys need more than just academic knowledge — they must develop resilience, social skills, and a sense of responsibility. Excellence Boys excels at nurturing these qualities. In my eight years at Excellence Boys, I developed a strong sense of camaraderie and accountability with my peers, turning them into brothers. I became part of a deep brotherhood that extended beyond the classroom, creating a supportive network of parents, teachers, and students, where we all felt like we were in it together. I could not be more grateful for this support network and life-long brotherhood, and I urge all parents and prospective students to consider a school like Uncommon Excellence Boys. It’s a genuine launching pad to success.
To find out more about more about Uncommon Excellence Boys please click HERE.
