Our Beliefs
Education
The West African symbol called Nea Onnim embodies lifelong learning, education, and the pursuit of continuous knowledge. It is derived from the Akan proverb, which states, “When he who does not know learns, he gets to know.”
We believe that, as educators, it is our responsibility to constantly educate ourselves so that we can provide underserved students with the best support to help them thrive.
Advocacy
The Aztec symbol, Cozcacuauhtli. refers to the vulture and is associated with wisdom and good counsel.
We believe that, as educators of underserved students, it is our responsibility to selflessly advocate for them culturally and linguistically, so that underserved students feel appreciated, respected, honored, and affirmed.
Transformation
For many Indigenous American cultures, the butterfly is a symbol of transformation. As a butterfly undergoes change through the process of metamorphosis, individuals and organizations can also be transformed.
We believe that the systems, practices, culture, and climates, and especially the individual educators of our schools must be willing to engage in the process of transformation to create learning environments where underserved students are able to thrive.
