BOLD Leadership Consultants LLC

Introductions:

• Farrell Thomas, Principal of Waterloo Elementary

• Damon Qualls, Principal of Monaview Elementary

• Christopher McCants, Principal of Florence Chapel Middle

• Wallace Cobbs, Principal of Welcome Elementary

• Corey Collington, Principal of Berea Middle

• Leonard Galloway, Principal of Glenview Middle

• Edgar Henson, Assistant Principal of Mauldin Middle

The beginnings of BOLD Leadership:

During the challenging times of COVID the leaders found solace in sharing their expertise with each other to succeed. Through a variety of connections, the core group was formed with a variety of educators from multiple districts and experiences.

What is BOLD?

BOLD stands for Building Organizational Leadership and Development. Beyond the acronym, this group of men are bold leaders; they make bold decisions and bold moves at each of their respective schools and community.

BOLD Allies:

The Bold Allies partner with Bold Leadership to do the work of advancing educational and intercultural development. Bold Leadership is a group of black, male educators serving to support each other in those capacities, but they do actively seek and welcome Bold Allies.

Supporting Teachers:

Principals love, respect, and value teachers. It is important to be intentional in reminding teachers that the principal loves and respects the work that they do. Schools can partner with business and community organizations to help shower teachers with appreciation. It's important that principals never forget what it's like to be a teacher by praising teachers and maybe even co-teaching with teachers.

Advice for Addressing Cultural Bias:

We have to acknowledge that we all have biases. We need to see students for who they are; they are kids and should not be adultified. The adults have to have hard, uncomfortable conversations to see others' perspectives. Once we do that we can begin to see the change in our classrooms. Teachers should be conscientious of the learning environment they create for students. Are all students represented? Are classroom libraries diversified? Some of our students have had a tough journey; teachers need to recognize the whole child and their needs that should be met before we can get to the curriculum. Use a position of leadership and influence to benefit your community. Be mindful about your assignments; are you asking them to reflect on an experience they've never experienced? Teachers can review student files to gain a better understanding of their students before school starts. Sometimes, teachers need to set aside their moral compass to be inclusive of students and their families.