Testimonials

Hear directly from the teachers who have received our Teacher Fellowship grant!

When I discovered the Black Educator’s Initiative on Facebook, I had to further investigate! Of course, my primary question was the validity of the simple requirements of eligibility expressed in the brochure. Could it possibly be that easy? Well, life has taught me that if I don’t follow my instincts, I will eventually regret not having done so. With such mindset, I took a chance. And, to my surprise, YES, it was that easy! Not only is this a legitimate initiative, but the support received from the Golden Fleece Scholarship members, and Monroe County School district is unparalleled. The beautiful aspect of this initiative is that it focuses on community. That focus is grounded in inclusion of all…specifically ensuring that all students receive equitable education from a diverse group of teachers.

Anita Linville, San Antonio Texas, English Teacher

2022 Teacher Fellowship Recipient

This is such an important initiative, as we are a diverse society. I currently teach English I and Honors English at Key West High School. My student population is comprised of students from Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, the Bahamas, Columbia, the United States, and even Ukraine! Unfortunately, many of my students have never experienced a black teacher until me. Although, I understand such a reality exists, it is an unacceptable reality.

Now that we’ve established the legitimacy of the Black Educator Initiative through the Golden Fleece foundation, let’s talk about the powerful impact this foundation has made on my life, as well as the lives of my students. It goes without saying that the opportunity to live and work in paradise is a goal of many. It certainly was my goal, and I must say, I was not prepared for the results of this positive transition. The crystal clear waters, the year-round tropical weather, and the delicious food is mere icing on an already delicious cake. The true beauty of Monroe County is the family-like mindset embedded within the humanity of its people. My life has changed in ways I never could have imagined. That said, the most profound change is continual, and observed daily through my students.

The Black Educator Initiative is designed to bridge the gap of inequity and inequality so often seen in education today. It is a powerful program to provide an opportunity for diverse students to learn from a diverse group of teachers. Because the intent is so radically genuine, the Golden Fleece foundation makes the process easy for potential Black Educators. It really is as simple as 1,2,3. Recently, I was asked to lend my image, and teaching content to www.blackeducatorinitiave.com. I am beyond honored to dive even deeper into this powerful initiative! My goal is to assist the Golden Fleece Foundation to attract other Black Educators to Monroe County to change lives. I did, and it is by far the best decision I’ve ever made. My teaching has profound purpose, as does yours… Together, we should harness the essence of who we are as Black Educators to increase diversity in Monroe County.

Come join me on this opportunity journey of a lifetime!