Green Dot Celebrates Black History Month and Black Excellence

Every February, our nation has a moment to reflect, acknowledge, and observe the countless contributions African Americans have made to the history, culture, and productivity of this nation and throughout the world during Black History Month. 

Across our network of 18 schools in Los Angeles, Green Dot Public Schools California learning communities proudly and diligently celebrate the cultural wealth of all students throughout every year. 

For us, Black History Month is a reminder of our work to help close achievement gaps across the communities that we serve. More than five years ago, our network developed its African American Achievement and Equity Committee to help build spaces to reflect on how we can build better classrooms and practices to help students succeed. We made it a priority to challenge and dismantle systemic barriers that have historically interrupted Black students on their path to success in college, leadership, and life. 

Through our African American Achievement and Equity Committee, our schools have doubled down on programs that prioritize the wellbeing of African American students, built more mentorship opportunities for our Black students, trained a team of lead African American Achievement and Equity educators, and programmed special events that are catered to Black families in their pursuit of education. 

Black History Month is a moment of solidarity, reflection and action. Our network will continue to use this month to celebrate and recognize Black excellence across every corner of the education landscape. As we embark on this month, we're sharing five impactful stories in our network that highlight our Black students, teachers, and communities.