MISSION
Affirm. Inspire. Empower. Fun!
We collaborate with schools, child-focused organizations, and families to foster a positive learning culture by teaching Black and African history with elementary-age children. Through representation, we expand a child’s perspective of their present and future possibilities.
We welcome everyone who values and prioritizes centering black bodies, voices, and experiences.
Black Genius School started in 2020 when our children asked to learn Black History while doing school work at the table. We taught virtual classes for two years and now host in-person learning events.
Services
Black History 365 Assembly
Hold an interactive assemblies highlighting the accomplishments of Black and African people. Includes digital media, call and response, a dance break, affirmations, and helpers on stage. In addition to take-home and in-class resources for further learning.
In-Person Teaching
School year, summer school or after school including community organizations and associations. Even family and friends events, birthdays, and Black holiday celebrations. Gather and learn while having fun! Choose from our growing library of classes.
Licensed Curriculum
Coming in Fall 2024. Gain access to tested lesson plans for your school, district, organization or family. Every plan includes affirmations, a hands-on activity, a history lesson, discussion questions, and a slide deck and take-home page to reinforce learning.
Testimonials
Mrs. Kimberly Beck
Principal, Grannemann Elementary
Hazelwood School District
As a principal committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within my school community, I am thrilled to share my experience with the Black Genius School Program. This program has emerged as a vital partner in our mission to provide a well-rounded education that reflects the richness of our students' backgrounds and experiences.
I am also impressed by the collaborative spirit and professionalism of the program’s staff. The dedicated staff worked tirelessly to create a supportive and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and empowered. Their passion for education and commitment to equity serve as an inspiration to our entire school community.
The Black Genius School Program is a transformative journey of self-discovery and pride. Black Genius School offers a comprehensive curriculum that celebrates the rich tapestry of Black and African heritage.
The students at Grannemann Elementary were immersed in learning about the contributions of Black and African leaders, innovators, trailblazers, and achievements that have long been overlooked in mainstream education.
Zion & Jacquita
She had attended a different online school over the summer, but Zion, then age 6, said Black Genius School was more fun. “There's more Black history. Learning Black history is cool and makes me feel good,” she said.
Last year Zion wanted yellow hair according to her mom. Since Black Genius School, she’s been asking for brown markers and singing No Mirrors in My Nana’s House, which she learned in BGS.
The lyrics are from a Sweet Honey in the Rock song:
“I never knew that my skin was too black.
I never knew that my nose was too flat.
Jacquita said that with racism being “in our face” these days, it’s so important our kids know who they are.
Jill Sander-Chali, Kalaba Chali and Mapalo Chali.
Jill and her husband Chali were, like many of us, trying to figure out how to work and parent from home this summer. Seeing the post for Black Genius School was a blessing, she said. She went on to share that “the struggle is real” when you’re trying to be intentional about enrolling and engaging in inclusive and diverse learning and social environments.
“I can’t say enough thank yous to the two of you. It meant alot to my daughter and to our family. Black Genius School fostered good convo within our family. We learned during school, too. We followed one of the recommendations and we watched the movie Hidden Figures together and discussed it more.”
“I want my daughter to have strong, black women, in particular, as mentors and people to look up to. It’s so important that she can see herself represented. We’re invested. and we value Black Genius School as a family.”
Meet the Team
We are sisters who grew up playing Rock teacher on our grandparents' front steps. Today we’re teaching our children and yours Black and African History, resulting in positive self-identity and reinforcing emotional intelligence, and increasing exposure to the breadth of impact African Americans have had in the world.
Tramaine Williams - Chief Education Officer
I am trained in System Analysis. I am an organized thinker and researcher. I create lesson plans for Black Genius School. I am also the PTA President at my daughter Sarina's school. I have received Volunteer of the Year twice in the Hazelwood School District. One of the things I’m most proud of is securing a National PTA Grant that was sponsored by the Bayer Fund to host a STEM Festival. Our school was the only one in Missouri to be awarded this honor. After working on a project about Nigeria with a friend, I was reminded of the value of my heritage. This led me to immerse myself further into learning Black and African history and affirm myself as I continued to face racial encounters with peers.
I bring a passion to speaking and teaching with children so they too can carry positive and uplifting self-messages. I received my Bachelor of Science in System Analysis from Miami University in Oxford Ohio.
Charity Goodwin - Chief Engagement Officer
Charity's background is in journalism however while in seminary she began learning about pedagogy. For 12 years she served as a youth pastor and now overseas leader development at The Gathering, a multi-site church. I delight in building meaningful relationships and marketing for Black Genius School. To me, everything is about relationships.
I hold certifications in emotional intelligence from Six Seconds, an international organization and am completing my coaching certification through the International Coaching Federation. I am a Mizzou and Saint Paul School of Theology alumnae.
As sisters, we attended a magnet school in St Louis City where we learned with other geniuses. For high school, we attended predominantly white institutions, still always carving out and curating space for Black connections to peers whether Black student groups, band, bus rides or after-school activities. With an unshakable commitment to raising well-rounded self-assured children, we count it an honor to support your school, class, district, or organization with Black History 365.
Sarina Williams - Chief Enrichment Officer
She’s only 10 and already knows she’ll be a Chemist and wants to attend Harvard or Alcorn (a family alma mater). A genius in her own right, she is artistic and loves crocheting, drawing, and cheering. She gives feedback on every lesson before it’s presented and selects books and supplemental resources to support your genius’ learning at home.
Levi Rosario - Chief Encouragement Officer
Levi is 11 and you can find him gaming, reading or baking (sometimes without his mama knowing). He writes affirmations and leads children in reciting them.
Gabriel Rosario - Chief Inclusion Officer
Gabriel is 13 and loves videos, cars, and lately Harry Potter. He’s also on the autism spectrum. His presence reminds us that genius comes in all shapes and to remember him when we’re planning and teaching.
Learn more of our story here.