Black Male(d)

Peril and Promise in the Education of African American Males

In his new book, the author of the bestseller Why Race and Culture Matter in Schools examines the chronic under-performance of African American males in U.S. schools. Citing a plethora of disturbing academic outcomes for Black males, this book focuses on the historical, structural, educational, psychological, emotional, and cultural factors that influence the teaching and learning process for this student population. Howard discusses the potential and promise of Black males by highlighting their voices to generate new insights, create new knowledge, and identify useful practices that can significantly improve the schooling experiences and life chances of Black males. Howard calls for a paradigm shift in how we think about, teach, and study Black males.

Book Features:

• Examines current structures, ideologies, and practices that both help and hinder the educational and social prospects of Black males.
• Translates frequently cited theoretical principles into research-based classroom practice.
• Documents teacher-student interactions, student viewpoints, and discusses the troubling role that sports plays in the lives of many Black males.
• Highlights voices and perspectives from Black male students about ways to improve their schooling experiences and outcomes.
• Identifies community-based programs that are helping Black males succeed.

“Howard is more than a reformer. He seeks to dismantle a system that stifles dreams, devours hopes, and destroys opportunities. . . . He offers us a road map for how to do this and an invitation to join him in this venture. Let us hope that more than a few of those who read this book will enthusiastically accept his offer and join him in this important work.”
—From the Foreword by Pedro A. Noguera, New York University

“Black Male(d) is a timely, masterfully crafted contribution to an important conversation about one of our nation’s most misunderstood populations. Anyone who is troubled by the status of Black boys in schools and society will find much that is useful in this book. The author’s brilliance is apparent and praiseworthy.”
—Shaun R. Harper, Center for the Study of Race and Equity in Education, University of Pennsylvania

“This book pushes educators to not only know more but to do more on behalf of Black males. This is the book that shows us how to reform practices, policies, and places in order to improve the human condition of Black males. Howard reminds us all that we absolutely must do better—our children’s lives depend on it!” 
—H. Richard Milner IV, Helen Faison Endowed Chair of Urban Education, University of Pittsburgh

Tyrone C. Howard is professor of education at the Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, University of California, Los Angeles.