Why are inner cities schools not meeting the needs of African American children? One major need of students is an environment that reflects the one from which they come. From the time children leave home until they arrive at school, they hear music, feel rhythms, and receive love. Schools can produce successful students if they operate according to children’s needs.

 Children live in homes where music is a soothing source of meditation. They attend churches where choirs belt out melodious sounds.  They ride in cars where radios are on before the car starts. Their family members hum and sing throughout the day. Once students arrive on campus, they should hear music playing – music that reflects success, not failure.

 African American students come from a rich history of dance. The dance is innate and will be with them always. Just watch young students tapping on the desk and wiggling around. The movement and rhythm they feel comes naturally. Gather their talents and use them to teach any subject matter.

 Love is the most important recipe for success in any arena. Parents and guardians send their children to school fully expecting them to have the same smile on their face that they left them with in the morning. Would you like someone screaming at your child? If you do not love children, then you should not be in the business of educating. Many people believe they are qualified to deal with children, but the schooling experience they received may not be like the challenge they meet. Children know when someone loves them.

 Educating children is one of the most rewarding experiences one can have. Your heart and soul need to be in it. One must remember that children learn from experience as well as instruction. If their educational experience incorporates music, dance, and love, they will become learners in their own right.