Roslyn Chandler Wood, a devoted educator, cultural advocate, and lifelong Baltimore resident, passed away on July 17 at age 96. Family, friends, and community members gathered July 24 to honor her legacy of service, excellence, and empowerment during a heartfelt celebration of life at St. James Episcopal Church.
Category: Education
When the bullying follows you home: A teen’s guide to surviving online cruelty
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com Before the rise of social media, group chats and online forums, bullying was often confined to the school yard, classroom or cafeteria—places teens could physically leave behind at the end of the day. But now, digital devices and 24/7 connectivity have extended those boundaries, allowing harmful behavior to follow young […]
Walter P. Carter Institute launches civic leadership program to empower Baltimore’s future changemakers
The Walter P. Carter Institute of Leadership and Service has launched its first major initiative, the Community Leadership and Empowerment Program (CLEP), a free 10-week course designed to cultivate Baltimore’s next generation of grassroots leaders. Rooted in the legacy of civil rights icon Walter P. Carter, the program equips participants with tools in civic engagement, advocacy and public service to help them lead meaningful change in their communities
Disney Dreamers Academy now accepting applications for popular mentorship program at Walt Disney World
Applications are now open for the 2026 Disney Dreamers Academy, a mentorship program that selects 100 high school students nationwide for an all-expenses-paid, life-changing experience at Walt Disney World. The program equips teens from diverse backgrounds with leadership skills, career insights, and inspiration to pursue their dreams.
Chronically absent: Why Black kids are still missing from classrooms
Chronic absenteeism in public schools has surged post-pandemic, with nearly 40% of Black students missing 10% or more of the school year—far above the national average. Experts cite systemic barriers like housing insecurity, school disinvestment, and political attacks on education, calling for community-driven solutions that reengage students and support families.
This school banned cellphones six years ago. Teachers — and many kids — couldn’t be happier.
San Mateo High School banned cellphones in 2019 using magnetically locked Yondr pouches, aiming to curb distractions, cyberbullying, and mental health issues tied to excessive phone use. Six years later, teachers and many students report improved focus, stronger peer relationships, and a more connected school culture—making San Mateo a national model as more schools adopt similar bans.
DCPS rolls out districtwide phone ban to cut distractions
D.C. Public Schools Chancellor Dr. Lewis D. Ferebee gives information on the districtwide ban on personal cell phones and electronic devices for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.
Medical school graduates share their journey to residency
Recent medical school graduates share their inspiring journeys into residency, overcoming barriers in a field where African Americans remain vastly underrepresented. Their stories reflect resilience, purpose and community impact.
Why do schools keep failing Black kids?
Despite dire statistics, advocates say there is hope — and progress — in American cities, where investments in youth programs are beginning to improve outcomes for Black students.
Meet Dr. Tanya Johnson, the woman redefining student support services
Dr. Tanya Johnson, 46, a Morgan State University alumna and longtime higher education professional, is making waves with her research on humanization practices to create more empathetic and inclusive student support services.
Pell Grants at peril: 7 million recipients face $9 billion program cut
Charlene Crowell is a senior fellow with the Center for Responsible Lending. In this piece, she examines how a House-passed FY 2026 budget proposal that cuts $9 billion from Pell Grant funding, threatens access to higher education for millions of low-income students by reducing grant amounts, tightening eligibility, and disproportionately impacting adult learners and students of color.
Keeping history alive: Tips for parents and teachers amid political pushbacks
Amid growing efforts to restrict Black history education, parents and teachers must preserve and share the true stories with Black youth.

