The plight of Black males continues to pose a major challenge for educators at all levels - particularly under the demands of No Child Left Behind. In this high energy, interactive workshop, Principal Kafele will provide educators with an analysis as well as specific strategies that can be implemented immediately toward effectively motivating their Black male students to strive for academic excellence. It places a particular emphasis on Principal Kafele's Closing the "Attitude Gap" C.A.R.E.E.R. Frameworkas follows:

• Compassion for Students
• Attitude of the Teacher
• Relationship with Students
• Environment for Learning
• Empowerment Program
• Relevance in Instruction

Principal Kafele contends that the crisis of the Black male learner is much deeper and far greater than simply deficiencies in math and reading. With a national high school graduation rate of only 47% coupled with staggering suspension rates and chronic underachievement, Principal Kafele contends that clearly, we as educators have failed to identify the true essence of the problem. He says that as long as schools fail to capture the attention of their otherwise brilliant Black male learners, we will continue to see large numbers of them joining gangs, winding up in juvenile detention facilities and dying in the streets.

In this workshop, Principal Kafele shares proven strategies he's used over his 21 year "mission" as a public school teacher and principal which inspired thousands of his Black male students to consistently soar academically. Strategies for developing a “Young Men’s Empowerment Program” in your school or district will also be discussed. This workshop is an absolute must for any school, district or college-level teacher preparation program that is serious about motivating their Black male learners to strive for excellence.