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The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement

The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement Research Studies

ack students who participated in different programs, including Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), shared perspectives that reinforced the need to prioritize and design programs to improve their overall experience from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and transition to postsecondary education. Consideration should be given to the recommendations taken from evaluations of the following programs:

  • A Day in the听Aviation Program: Partnership with the Black Aviation Professionals Network
  • Black Girls Book Club
  • Black Student Summer Leadership Program
  • Black Veterinary Association of Canada: Pathways to Veterinary Medicine
  • Dalla Lana School of Public Health - Pathways to Public Health (University of Toronto)
  • The Interac Experiential Learning Program
  • The Life Education Program
  • Pathways to Public Relations (Humber College)
  • Sunnybrook Hospital: Day of Discovery and Meet the Scientist
  • Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) Conference (York University)

Recommendations
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Culturally Relevant and Responsive Pedagogy in Safe School Spaces

  • Continue creating affinity spaces to help strengthen students鈥� identity and sense of self.
  • Continue cultivating safe and positive classroom spaces for Black students, especially girls, to improve and honour their literary practices.
  • Continue supporting educators to incorporate a wide range of learning models to understand the concepts of identity, racial identity, and racial identity development.
  • Continue providing equitable access to resources and Black professional support to enhance Black students' academic achievement in different programs.
  • Continue organizing and planning explicit training for teachers and administrators on social justice and racial, linguistic, and culturally responsive pedagogy and practice.

Increase Pathways to Postsecondary Institutions

  • Continue to establish partnerships with postsecondary educational (PSE) institutions, specifically with administrators, alumni, and graduate counsellors to ensure Black students have equitable and early access.
  • Continue to leverage partner network of supporting Black mentors to guide Black students in selecting academic programs and career pathways at the postsecondary level. Black mentors are better positioned to support, validate, and affirm Black students' racial identity and success.
  • Continue to partner with established peer mentorship programs to increase Black students鈥� interest and enrolment in PSE affiliated programs. For example, increased Grade 10-12 students鈥� access to Black peer mentors in university programs that are aligned with their career interests.
  • Continue to provide educational and social opportunities in communities that promote postsecondary and career readiness.

Mentorship, Professional Learning, and Career Building

  • Continue to update the database of Black-serving agencies/service providers and professional networks to help Black students build stronger connections between academic programming, mentorship, and pathways which align with their professional interests.
  • Continue collaborating with various departments in the 污污漫画 in developing learning opportunities at the Kindergarten to Grade 12 level to engage, inspire, nurture, and develop Black students鈥� interests in academic programs.
  • Continue establishing a peer network in schools for unique mentorship and educational opportunities so that Black students can have a fulfilling student experience through personal, academic, and professional development opportunities.
  • Continue organizing professional learning for educators to cultivate an understanding of identity development among Black students. Professional learning should focus on learning about and recognizing racism, anti-Black racism, and anti-oppression in school.
  • Continue providing in-school networking and mentorship opportunities in spaces exclusively for Black students with Black professionals who can provide insight on various professional and postsecondary pathways. These opportunities should start at a young age and be frequent and ongoing.
  • Continue training educators to implement the principles of culturally relevant and responsive pedagogies to improve classroom conditions.

Network of Support: School-community Partnerships and Engagement with Stakeholders

  • Continue to apply action-oriented advocacy programs to counter institutionalized anti-Black racism that Black students, families, and communities encounter.
  • Continue extending and managing the time required and needed for the programs to meet the needs of students and program partners.
  • Continue to develop and disseminate information to students and experiential partners before placement and at different intervals of the program. Students and partners will have the opportunity to understand program expectations and impact.
  • Continue to establish an ecosystem of support with community stakeholders, families, and policymakers at the school, system, and community levels to support Black students' development in SHSM and other programs.
  • Continue to extend the duration of the program to facilitate placement exploration, student preparation, and enhancement of research skills among others (e.g., Black Student Summer Leadership Program/Youth Participatory Action Research).
  • Continue improving efforts in mobilizing community outreach and mentorship programs to increase Black and racialized students' access and exposure to professions and career pathways in STEM (e.g., Aviation). Equally important is extending support for students to complete the application process for different pathways to STEM careers.
  • Continue incorporating more frequent interval check-ins with experiential partners and students to highlight areas of needed improvement and progress.

Preparing Black Students for the Workforce

  • Continue providing Black students with more hands-on opportunities for them to interact and utilize resources to support their learning in programs such as STEM career pathways.
  • Continue developing Black students' 21st-century skills鈥攊ncluding critical thinking, leadership, collaboration, problem-solving, negotiation, self-direction, accountability, ingenuity, initiative, and work ethic (Dede, 2010)鈥攖hat are integral to their survival in the world.
  • Continue enhancing Black students' knowledge in SHSM and STEM fields in schools. In doing so, Black students can make informed decisions about their career path or field of interest.
  • Continue to improve hiring practices to foster equitable and diverse representation of Black educators and staff across different programs, including STEM, to support students鈥� needs.
  • Continue integrating financial literacy skills in school programs, as this is foundational in building Black students' economic well-being.

References

Dede, C. (2010). Comparing frameworks for 21st century skills. In J. Bellance & R. Brandt (Eds.), 21st century skills: Rethinking how students learn (pp. 51-76). Bloomington, IN: Solution Tree Press.

污污漫画. (2019a). Preliminary research report to the anti-racism directorate. 污污漫画.

污污漫画. (2019b, October 30). Transforming Student Learning in Literacy and Mathematics (P038).


Reports

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Black Students Adventures in Engineering
December 2021

Black Students Adventures in Engineering program highlights the 污污漫画's听efforts to improve equity in access and reduce barriers to post-secondary education (PSE) and pathways to science and engineering for Black students.听The program was evaluated in June and July 2021 using a pre-and post-evaluation survey to explore ACB students鈥� early exposure to and participation in PSE and science and engineering post-secondary pathways.听

Focussed Conversations with African, Afro-Caribbean, Black Students, Families and Community
January 2022

In 2021, The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement conducted consultations with African, Afro-Caribbean, and Black (ACB) students, their families and community members. The consultations sought to elicit perspectives from each education partner in relation to the role of the Centre of Excellence and the 污污漫画 as a whole.听

Black Student Summer Leadership Program (BSSLP) 2021
February 2022

The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement at 污污漫画 designed and delivered its third annual Black Student Summer Leadership Program (BSSLP) in July 2021. The BSSLP is a unique program that offers leadership training and paid work experiences for self-identified Black students in secondary schools across the 污污漫画.听This report provides an understanding of how Black students and experiential partners interacted with and benefited from the BSSLP.听

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Aviation

April 2023

The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement partnered with the Black Aviation Professionals Network to develop a program for Black students at the 污污漫画 wishing to pursue a career in the aviation field. The program was designed to support a key Centre of Excellence mandate, which was to provide support to Black students, identify barriers to their success, and access appropriate resources through scholarships, networking, and mentoring.听

Initiated in 2022, the focus of听A Day in Aviation听was to engage Black students in Grades 10-12 to explore aviation as an academic and career pathway.

In the program, students have an opportunity to engage in discussions with Black professionals and learn about the roles and complexities of working in the industry.

Black Girls Book Club

April 2023

One of the mandates of the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement is to develop and facilitate culturally responsive and relevant healing practice for students. To assist in fulfilling this mandate, the Black Girls Book Club (BGBC) was initiated in 2020 for Black girls in 污污漫画 secondary schools.

The space provided by the BGBC was an identity-affirming space that provided opportunities to counter misrepresentations, stereotypes, and discrimination which Black girls experience in school and the wider community. The BGBC was perceived as a space to inspire healthy discourse among Black girls. As a result of its success, the BGBC was expanded in 2021-2022 to include Black middle schools in Grades 6-8.

Music Industry Discovery Program with ADVANCE Canada鈥檚 Black Music Business Collective

April 2023

The 污污漫画鈥檚 Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement developed a partnership with the ADVANCE Canada's Black Music Business Collective. This partnership is aligned with the Centre of Excellence鈥檚 mandate to identify barriers to success, access appropriate resources (e.g., scholarships, networking, mentoring), and engage in strategic community partnerships related to education.

The core of the partnership was based on a nine-week program that aimed to increase the interest of Black students in Grades 11 and 12 in a career path in the music industry. The objectives of the program were aimed at:

  1. connecting Black youth with industry executives and professionals in the music听business;
  2. providing students with mentorship opportunities through partnerships with听professionals in the music industry;
  3. supporting the development of students鈥� transferable skills that will facilitate听increased access to opportunities (such as communication, planning, etc.); and
  4. educating Black youth (Grades 11 & 12) about different career opportunities in听the music industry (e.g., marketing manager, content creator, among others).

Pathways to Veterinary Medicine and Associated Fields

April 2023

The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement partnered with the Black Veterinary Association of Canada to create the Pathways to Black Veterinary

Medicine Program, a program for Black students in Grades 7-12 at the 污污漫画 who aspired to pursue a career as a Veterinarian or Veterinary Medical Paraprofessional, fields in which Black professionals are very underrepresented.

During the six-week program, students received support and guidance about the requirements to apply to veterinary colleges and veterinary technician programmes and learned about education and career pathways in veterinary medicine.
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The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement: Life Education Program

March 2024

The Life Education Program, led by Social Workers at the Centre of Excellence, provides culturally relevant healing spaces for Black boys in high schools. The program aligns with the Centre's mandate to promote well-being and culturally responsive practices and supports the 污污漫画鈥檚 strategic priorities, including anti-racism and community partnerships. In 2024, 21 participants provided feedback via surveys and video presentations. Over 90% rated their experience as 鈥済reat鈥� or 鈥渆xcellent,鈥� citing enhanced belonging, improved emotional intelligence, and increased awareness of anti-Black racism. Students reported feeling supported in navigating emotions and engaging critically with systemic challenges. The program鈥檚 success highlights the importance of culturally tailored mental health initiatives for Black youth in the 污污漫画.

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre: Meet the Scientist Program

April 2023

This three-week program connected Black students with scientists to explore STEM career pathways. Evaluated in late 2022, the program engaged eight students, all of whom reported positive learning experiences. Participants gained insights into STEM careers and received mentorship from scientists who supported their aspirations. Students felt a strong sense of belonging and highlighted the importance of mentorship and representation in fostering interest in STEM fields. Findings emphasize the need for increased Black representation in STEM careers to address systemic barriers and inspire future generations.

Pathways to Public Health: Dalla Lana School of Public Health Program
June 2023

The 2023 Pathways to Public Health program introduced Black students to careers in public health and connected them with Black professionals. Of the 18 participants surveyed, most joined to explore public health pathways and benefit from mentorship opportunities. Students reported positive experiences, citing deeper knowledge of public health careers and strengthened interest in the field. Mentorship was a key element, enabling students to envision themselves in public health roles. The findings underscore the importance of culturally relevant mentorship programs in overcoming institutional barriers and supporting Black students鈥� aspirations.

Interac Experiential Learning Program
April 2023

In 2023, the Interac Experiential Learning Program introduced Black students to STEM, IT, and Business career pathways. Of 16 participants, 14 provided feedback, with 93% valuing mentorship and networking opportunities. Students gained knowledge in software development, marketing, and innovation, with 71% reporting greater clarity about their career goals. Participants emphasized the importance of mentorship in deepening their understanding of career possibilities. The findings recommend expanding access to STEM and business-related experiential programs to support Black students' professional growth.

The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement: 2023 Black Student Summer Leadership Program
April 2024

The 2023 Black Student Summer Leadership Program (BSSLP) offered Black high school students experiential learning opportunities and leadership training. Feedback from 88 junior leaders indicated improved identity development, career exploration, and socio-political awareness. Experiential partners praised students' contributions to their organizations. The program fostered critical skills and confidence among participants, addressing underrepresentation in various fields. Recommendations include strategic planning to enhance mentorship and experiential learning opportunities for Black youth.

The ABC鈥檚 of Literacy
April 2024

The 2024 ABC鈥檚 of Literacy workshop supported parents and caregivers in fostering literacy development for their children. Of the 52 attendees, 11 completed surveys highlighting positive experiences and the value of resources provided. Participants appreciated opportunities to build school-home-community partnerships and enhance their children鈥檚 learning. Findings emphasize the importance of trust-building and culturally responsive practices in strengthening collaborative relationships between schools and families.

A Day in Aviation Program
April 2023

Held in February 2023, A Day in Aviation engaged Black high school students in exploring careers in aviation. Supported by the Black Aviation Professionals Network and Air Canada, the program hosted 29 students, 18 of whom provided feedback. Students described the experience as 鈥渆xtremely enjoyable鈥� and reported a clearer understanding of aviation careers. Mentorship from aviation professionals inspired participants to consider aviation as a viable career path. Recommendations include expanding access to similar programs to foster interest and representation in aviation fields.

Summary of Student Recommendations from the Centre of Excellence Programs
June 2024

The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement has been at the forefront of advancing educational equity for Black students within the 污污漫画 (污污漫画) since 2021. This report highlights the Centre's progress in developing and implementing culturally responsive programs that address systemic inequities and enhance the educational experiences of Black students. Guided by a multidisciplinary team and rooted in collaboration with educators, families, and community partners, the Centre has delivered approximately 15 targeted initiatives focused on areas such as STEM education, career exploration, leadership development, and culturally relevant identity building.

Key programs, including the Black Student Summer Leadership Program (BSSLP) and partnerships with organizations such as the Dalla Lana School of Public Health and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, have provided transformative opportunities for Black students. These initiatives foster a sense of belonging, develop critical skills, and equip students with the tools to navigate post-secondary and career pathways.

Feedback from participants indicates high levels of engagement, leadership development, academic growth, and strengthened cultural identity. This report evaluates the Centre鈥檚 work in supporting Black students through innovative programming, offering insights into how systemic change can be achieved by centering the voices, experiences, and cultural capital of Black students and their communities. The findings underscore the need for sustained investment in programs that empower Black youth and promote their success within and beyond the education system.

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