About

Black educators benefit all children. However, currently Black educators make up 6% of the teaching workforce. Across California, more than 78,000 Black students are in classrooms without a Black educator. It is in our mission to not only increase the number of Black educators in schools but transform our school environments to better retain Black educators.

The Black Educator Advocates Network was born out of necessity. Founded in 2020 by Black educators, BEAN’s operates on the following theory of change. If Black educators are in schools where they are seen and leveraged as leaders and ultimately exist in classrooms where the practices and policies are grounded in anti-racism then the number of Black educators in classrooms will increase and Black student achievement.

Our Partners

  • Jalisa Evans

    FOUNDER/CEO

  • Melissa Mack

    Community Organizer, LA

  • Monica McMillan

    Executive Coordinator

Our Solution

Taking Collective Action

Leveraging the voices and experiences of the people closest to the problem to drive change. In our target regions we hold decision makers accountable to the Black educator pipeline by passing or changing policies.

Building Pathways to Anti-racist Schools

Our work is grounded in pushing back on anti-blackness. In order to retain Black educators in classrooms, school environments should be grounded in anti racism and inclusion. We work with school leaders and districts to build a workforce grounded in diversity and inclusion.

Fostering Peer to Peer Connection

So many of our Black educators are either the only one or one of few in their schools. We create opportunities either in person or virtual for Black educators to connect and learn with each other as they navigate their role in schools.

Join Our Movement.

Connect with an organizer in your region today!