This FREE week-long Virtual Bootcamp will immerse students in social justice issues and specifically encourage them to use their voice to self advocate. We want to provide students with an opportunity to learn in a safe encouraging environment that centers their specific experiences. Through informative and interactive workshops, culminating in a group project, students will improve their critical thinking and communication skills, and learn to work together as they study the social justice movement to reform the educational system for Black students.   In addition, students will have an opportunity throughout the week to discuss other societal conditions that affect their educational experience in their respective communities and the broader Black community in California and the nation.

Bootcamp Issue Advocacy Group Project
Participants will work as teams to successfully plan and execute a group presentation that will stream live on Facebook and YouTube.  Students will develop the skills to effectively plan and disseminate their messages to their community. Each day, time will be allotted for participants to delve into specific issues they are most passionate about as our volunteers guide them in preparation.  Each group will be responsible developing a strategy, and a communications plan for a successful LIVE Broadcast.

Major Program Goals

Learn how to effectively use their voice (ability to speak) to communicate their concerns
--->>> Achieved by understanding why it’s important to use their voice (what’s at stake if they don’t)
--->>> Understand the Three Ps – players, process, and the policies.

Have confidence using their voice
--->> Achieved by knowing the law, policies on the books
--->> Understanding their rights (as students, as parents) & being empowered to act

Establish relationships with people who can inspire them, help them get where they want to go.
--->> Get parents on the same page
--->> Reinforce the support networks so they can access people who care.

Skills to Build/Enhance
Critical Thinking
Public Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Writing

Why is this Bootcamp Important?
* The Public Education System is failing Black Students in California and Nationwide
* Achievement Gap
* Disproportionate Discipline
* School to Prison Pipeline
* Underfunded schools
In order to address these issues and change outcomes, it’s important to understand who makes the decisions, how the decisions are made, and when they’re made. It’s also important because you need to know who to hold accountable for how Black children are educated and treated by the educational system.

Student Eligibility Requirements
•    Must commit to attending scheduled sessions for ALL FIVE days.
•    Open enrollment  (Nationwide) 
   
Application Process
•    Students will apply via Google Application due by Friday, July 24, 2020
•    Students will be notified by Monday, July 29, 2020 if they have been selected to attend.

*Program is specific to Black students but all are welcomed