"We're growing leaders here": Preliminary findings from providers on the importance of Afrocentric education

Although recent literature has emphasized the value of African-centered schools among Black youth, little is known about the factors that make Afrocentric schools successful. The current study examined experienced educators' perceptions of their PK - 8 Afrocentric schools using a qualitative focus group interview (n = 7). Drawing from care ethics and the Integrative Model for the Study of Stress in Black American Families, researchers identified three key themes: (1) the formative Influence of upbringing experiences inspiring many educators to work at Afrocentric schools; (2) educators' understanding of the utility of Afrocentric education as foundational to student development and building a community of care; and (3) the dual and synergistic influence of both racial and cultural socialization on educators' outlook of students' character development. Recommendations for future research and practice are discussed.