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The Power of Self-Pride and Identity in Education: Why It Matters for Black Students
October 25, 2024
At Roots to Routes Academy, we believe that education should be more than just textbooks and grades. It should help students grow into confident, proud individuals who celebrate who they are and where they come from. For Black students, this is especially important. When students understand their own identity and take pride in it, they become empowered to achieve more—not just academically, but in all areas of life.
But here’s the challenge: in many traditional schools, Black students struggle to find this sense of pride. In Canada, particularly in Ontario, Black students often don’t see their histories, cultures, or contributions reflected in what they are taught. As a result, they can feel disconnected from their learning, which can impact their academic success. According to reports many times Black students do not feel they belong in their school compared to their non-Black peers.
This is why at Roots to Routes Academy, a school based in Ontario and created by Black educators for Black students, we are committed to providing an environment where students don’t have to hide who they are. Instead, we help them embrace their identity and take pride in their roots. In this article, we will explore why self-pride and identity are so crucial in education for Black students and how our academy is leading the way in addressing this issue.
What is Self-Pride and Identity?
Self-pride means feeling good about who you are—your culture, your background, and your community. Identity is what makes you unique; it’s your race, ethnicity, heritage, and personal experiences. For Black students, these things are deeply connected to their self-esteem and sense of belonging. When students have a strong understanding of their identity and feel proud of it, they perform better in school and are more confident in themselves.
But in many traditional schools, Black students don’t get the chance to learn about their own histories or see themselves reflected in their education. This creates a gap in their learning experience. When Black students are constantly exposed to lessons and materials that don’t represent who they are, it can cause them to feel like outsiders. Without seeing their own culture valued in school, it can be hard for them to build the self-pride necessary to succeed.
Research shows that when students feel connected to their cultural identity, they’re more motivated in school. This is especially important for Black students, who often face added pressures that other students may not experience.
The Challenges Black Students Face in Traditional Schools
Black students in Ontario, like many places, face unique barriers in the education system. These challenges make it hard for them to feel proud of their identity, and it can directly impact their academic performance.
- Lack of Representation: Many schools in Ontario do not include Black history or culture in the regular curriculum. Black History Month is often the only time students learn about Black culture, which isn’t enough. When students don’t see themselves reflected in their textbooks, teachers, or school events, they may feel invisible. A 2021 report from the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) found that Black students make up 12% of the student population but less than 3% of the curriculum is focused on Black history or culture.
- Microaggressions and Stereotypes: Many Black students face subtle forms of racism, known as microaggressions, in their schools. These are everyday comments or actions that, while sometimes unintentional, reinforce negative stereotypes. For example, a student might be told, “You’re so articulate for a Black person,” or teachers might have lower expectations for them because of their race. This constant exposure to microaggressions can lower self-esteem and make students question their abilities.
- Conforming to the Norm: In many schools, Black students feel pressure to fit in with the dominant culture, which can mean hiding or downplaying their identity. This can create stress, anxiety, and a feeling that who they are isn’t good enough. When students feel like they have to change themselves to succeed in school, it’s hard for them to develop a strong sense of self-pride.
Why Self-Pride Matters for Black Students’ Success
When Black students are encouraged to embrace their identity and feel proud of who they are, it completely transforms how they experience school. Here’s why self-pride and identity are so important:
- Improves Academic Performance: Research shows that students who feel good about their identity are more motivated to learn and do better in school. When students believe in themselves, they are more likely to put in the effort needed to succeed. A report by the Toronto District School Board found that Black students with strong cultural pride had higher academic achievement and were more likely to graduate on time.
- Supports Mental Health: Feeling proud of who you are can also protect against mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Students who feel disconnected from their identity are more likely to struggle with feelings of isolation or worthlessness. But when students have a strong sense of self, they are more resilient and able to cope with the challenges they face in school and beyond.
- Inspires Leadership and Confidence: When students are proud of their identity, they become leaders. They feel empowered to speak up, take on new challenges, and help others. Studies have shown that students who embrace their cultural identity are more likely to take on leadership roles in school and in their communities, driving positive change for themselves and others.
The Importance of Representation in the Classroom
Representation is crucial for Black students’ success. When students see themselves reflected in what they learn, they feel seen, heard, and valued. Unfortunately, many Black students in Ontario don’t have this experience in their schools.
- Diverse Curriculum: When schools include Black history, literature, and culture in their everyday lessons, it helps students feel proud of who they are. However a survey by the Peel District School Board revealed that only 15% of schools regularly include Black history outside of Black History Month, leaving a huge gap in the way Black students experience education.
- Black Teachers as Role Models: Having teachers who look like you and understand your experiences makes a big difference. Black students who have at least one Black teacher during their school years are significantly more likely to succeed. In Ontario, however, only about 5% of teachers identify as Black, which shows just how important it is to have schools like Roots to Routes Academy that are led by Black educators.
How Roots to Routes Academy Empowers Black Students
At Roots to Routes Academy, we’ve built a school where Black students are celebrated for who they are. Located in Ontario and led by Black educators, we offer a safe, supportive environment where students can grow, learn, and take pride in their identity.
Here’s what makes Roots to Routes Academy different:
- Culturally Relevant Curriculum: Our lessons are centered around Black history, culture, and achievements. This helps students see the value of their heritage and connects their learning to their everyday experiences. Our students don’t just learn about history; they learn how their own story is part of a rich, ongoing legacy.
- Personalized Learning: Every student is unique, so we take the time to understand their individual needs. With smaller class sizes, we can provide more personalized attention to help each student reach their full potential, academically and personally.
- A Safe Space for Growth: We’ve created an environment where students can be themselves without fear of judgment. They can ask questions, express their thoughts, and explore their identity in a supportive setting. This not only helps them succeed in school but also builds their confidence in life.
- Strong Mentorship: Our teachers and staff are not just educators; they are mentors and role models who guide students in every aspect of their development. We connect our students with successful Black leaders in the community to inspire them and show them what’s possible.
What Teachers and Parents Can Do to Support Black Students
It’s not just schools like Roots to Routes Academy that play a role in supporting Black students. Teachers and parents can also make a big difference in helping students feel proud of their identity.
For Teachers:
- Include more Black history and culture in your lessons, not just during Black History Month but throughout the school year.
- Celebrate the diversity in your classroom and encourage open discussions about identity and heritage.
- Be mindful of the challenges Black students face and offer support when needed.
For Parents:
- Support your child’s learning by providing them with books, movies, and media that reflect Black culture and history.
- Have open conversations with your child about their identity and help them feel proud of who they are.
- Consider enrolling your child in a school like Roots to Routes Academy, where their identity is celebrated, and they are given the tools to succeed.
Conclusion: Why Self-Pride and Identity Matter
For Black students, having a strong sense of self-pride and identity is essential to their success. It boosts academic performance, supports mental health, and builds confidence for the future. At Roots to Routes Academy, we are proud to be a place where Black students can embrace their heritage and thrive both academically and personally.
If you want your child to learn in an environment that celebrates who they are and helps them achieve their fullest potential, don’t wait. Join Roots to Routes Academy today, and give your child the opportunity to grow into the proud, confident individual they are meant to be.
