January 2016 issue

Sista’s Keeper

I AM my Sista’s Keeper

January 2016 Vol. 4, Issue 3

DOUBLE COVER Education Issue

Amandla Stenberg Let Girls Learn Reality TV vs. Black Girls Black Girls & Education

Spotlight: Kyndall Harris Plus: Education & Self-Esteem Know Your Learning Style Education Quotes Knowledge Is Bae

Thessalonika Arzu-Embry Going For Her Ph.D At 16 Years Old

In This Issue

17

Book Feature

Thessalonika Arzu-Embry’s

Jump The Education Barrier

Black Skincare Tips 14

36

Spotlight: Kyndall Harris

9

Let Girls Learn

The White House has an initiative to help with educating girls around the world

38

Black Girls & Education

Studies have shown that AfricanAmerican girls are at higher risk of discipline than their peers

College Prep Timeline

42

On The Cover

Photos courtesy of: Thessalonika Arzu-Embry’s website & Amandla Stenberg’s website

28

(left) Thessalonika Arzu-Embry shares what motivated her to be successful in education. (right) Amandla Stenberg uses the “power” of her voice to spark change.

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Promotions/Giveaways “Like” us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter for more info!

You could win a copy of Thessalonika Arzu-Embry’s book Jump The Education Barrier!!!!!

Enter to win by answering the following question: Thessalonika is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in what subject?

“Like” our Facebook page & tweet us (@SistasKeeperMag) your answer in a complete sentance to enter the giveaway. Use the hashtag: #SKGIVEAWAY

Connect With Sista’s Keeper TODAY!!!!!

“Like” our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SistasKeeperMagazine Follow us on Twitter: @SistasKeeperMag http://www.twitter.com/SistasKeeperMag If you are on Pinterest, follow our page: http://www.pinterest.com/sistaskeepermag Follow us on Instagram: @SistasKeeperMag for photos, inspirational quotes, and MORE!!!!!

Follow us on Tumblr: http://sistaskeepermag.tumblr.com 4

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Sista’s Keeper Vol. 4, Issue 3 Owner/Founding Editor/Publisher LaPorsha Lowry Managing Editor Erik Veal Editorial Assistants Taylor Means Ajia Caldwell Programs/Events Assistant Day’Quan Crawford Contributing Editors Tanisha Fordham Alexis Knight Yani Long Ife Presswood Patrice Rivers De’Shauna Selby Jamiya Turns Special Thanks Thessalonika Arzu-Embry Francine Knowles Kyndall Harris Shontal Harris Herb & Felicia Gray Cheryl Richardson Randi Blakeney Brandy Boyce Fox Kelly Leonardt-Phoenix Thelma Sanders Stacie Bailey Ashley Reid Chukwuemeka Anazia Brittany Salter Jesse Lowry Trumaine McCaskill Evan Summerville Greg E. Hill Daniel Lee Lowry Dottie Benjamin Terri Long Darie Wilson Antionette Cody

I AM my Sista’s Keeper

In Every Issue

Health

Promotions & Giveaways

20

4

10 13 14 16 18 22

Beauty Winter Hairstyles Beauty Black Skin Care Tips Beauty Winter Nail Colors Entertainment

Reality TV Demotes Black Queens

Fashion

Furaha

Education & Self-Esteem

24

Jando

25

Maua

26

Ndege

27

Know You Learning Style

Education Quotes

Knowledge Is Bae

Winter Wonderland Fashion

Relationships

The ABC’s of Healthy Relationships

Black Women In History Mary McLeod Bethune 46 January 2016

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Calendar January/ February 2016

What’s going on and what to do this month

“Love YourSELF” Self-Esteem Party

Event: “Love YourSELF” Self-Esteem Party Date: Saturday, February 13, 2016 Time: 12pm-4pm Place: 5600 The Plaza

Charlotte, NC 28215 The 1st annual “Love YourSELF” SelfEsteem Party gives girls an alternative Valentine’s Day experience with activites, a movie & discussion. Lunch will be provided & registration is REQUIRED. For more information or to register, visit the EVENTS page of our website: http://www.sistaskeepermagazine.com/

Movie: The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

February 13, 2016 12pm-4pm 5600 The Plaza Charlotte, NC 28215 For more January & February events & updates, please visit our website: www.sistaskeepermagazine.com

If your black teen girl organization is having an event that you want to be featured in Sista’s Keeper Magazine, please email us the information so that it may be featured in the Calendar of an upcoming issue: events@sistaskeepermagazine.com 6

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The Power of An EDUCATED Girl

Editor’s Letter

Hto see what 2016 has in store for the

’ey sistas! Happy New Year! I can’t wait

magazine & I hope that you continue this journey with us.

To me, EDUCATION is very important because it is a necessary for success in life. When I graduated high school in 2006, I didn’t realize that education would be a BIG part of starting this magazine. I eventually got my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees and used the skills learned to start Sista’s Keeper in 2012.

Thessalonika Arzu-Embry (pg. 26) is an extraordinary young lady who is already pursuing her Ph.D. at just 16 years old. She is a great example of wanting to get an education and that anyone can succeed if they put their mind to it and trust God. Amandla Stenberg (pg. 26) is another inspirational young lady who has taken a stand for black women. I call her a “superhero” because she understand and uses the power of her voice to educate and inspire women.

Kyndall Harris (pg. 9) blew me away when I saw her dancing with Janet Jackson on tour in September 2015. She wants to be a role model for girls to let them know that they can do anything!

In this issue, we talk about the state of black girls and education as well as education for girls around the world. We highlight Let Girls Learn, a White House initiative to make education available and accessible to girls worldwide.

In this month’s sections, we will help you understand the importance of education, from how it can affect your self-esteem, to knowing your learning style, to focusing on your education instead of boys.

Tell us what you think!

Join the conversation... #SistasKeeper

As always, if you want to contact me of have any questions about the magazine, email me at: laporsha@sistaskeepermagazine.com or visit our website: www.sistaskeepermagazine.com Remember the purpose of Sista’s Keeper: to build you up as young women so you can be comfortable enough in yourself to help your sisters, cousins, friends, etc. I hope that you enjoy this issue and remember: “I AM my Sista’s Keeper”

Owner/Founding Editor/Publisher

January 2016

@SistasKeeperMag

Sista’s Keeper

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Subscribe to Sista’s Keeper!!!!!

6 issues per year for only $18!!!!!

Receive a “I AM my Sista’s Keeper” wristband with your subscription

Go to the Subscribe page of our website: www.sistaskeepermagazine.weebly.com

13-Year-Old Makes Her Mark on Janet Jackson Tour

Spotlight

Kyndall Harris shines as a dancer on Janet Jackson’s Unbreakable tour Sista’s Keeper: How old were you when you started dancing?

Kyndall Harris: I started dancing when I was 6 years old.

SK: What was your inspiration for trying out for Janet's tour?

KH: I have always loved to dance and during the audition I wasn't sure who the artist was. I just wanted to go in with the intentions of doing my best!

SK: What is your favorite song of Janet's to dance to?

KH: My favorite Janet Jackson song to dance to is “All For You”!

Connect w/ Kyndall

@kyndallharris

SK: How do you balance school and traveling on tour?

KH: My mom makes sure that all of my work is completed daily. We also have a teacher who travels with us.

@kyndalldance

SK: How do you want to be a "can-do" role model for young girls?

KH: I want girls to know that dreams do come true SK: What's the best part and hardest part of touring? if their willing to pursue them aggressively and to be KH: The best part is seeing the world and bonding dedicated. Most importantly they have to love what with everyone on the tour! Everyone has a special they do and fun doing it! place in my heart! The hardest part is being away from my family.

SK: What is your relationship like with your sisters?

KH: I love my sisters! They mean the world to me!

SK: What is it like We are very close with one another and are each others to dance with Janet best friend.

Jackson?

KH: It is the most SK: What is your definition of being your "sista's incredible experience ever! keeper"?

Ms. Janet is such a lovely KH: My definition of being my sista’s keeper is to person, she is so kind and always support my sisters! To be encouraging and loving! I am very blessed consistently loving towards one another! We all have to have this opportunity! the ability to be great! That in itself is a celebration!

SK: What are your hobbies outside of dancing?

KH: I love to read and also visit animals who are in shelters when I can. I want to become a veterinarian one day!

For tour dates to see Kyndall dance in the Unbreakable World Tour, visit: http://www.janetjackson.com/ January 2016

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Beat The Chill With

By: Ife Michelle Beauty

In the words of Denis Waitley, “Relentless, repetitive self talk is what changes our self-image.”; translation: “New Year, new me” = new hairdo!

So while you are setting those new year’s resolutions that you will recite everyday of 2016, here are some 4 hairdos that will take your self image from mundane to unconventional!

The BIG Chop Straight, curly, colored, or designed, the big chop is a great way to reinvent your look!

Low-maintenance and easy to switch up, a nice haircut will definitely add a sassy edge to you 2016.

Undercuts & Shaved Sides For those wanting a change, but not willing to forgo all of their hair, undercuts or shaved sides are for you!

Easily embellished with cool designs and your unique hairstyles, this style will have all eyes on you!

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HOT Winter Hair

Beauty

Asymmetrical Cuts Whether wearing your hair long, short, natural, weaved, permed, or braided, asymmetrical cuts can take a normal hairstyle over the top and be sure to turn heads!

Vivacious Color For those not willing to give up any of their beautiful mane, don’t fret: just change your style with a bold color.

Whether a rinse, semi-permanent or permanent dye, bold colors like grey, glue, and green can bring the funk for your “new” hairdo!

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What’s On The Website?

Visit our website for photos, videos, events & MORE!!!!!

Extra content available ONLY online...

• • • •

Coming in February All Things Valentine’s Day (things to do, beauty, fashion) Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month American Heart Month & MORE!!!!!

www.sistaskeepermagazine.com

Give Your Nails A Chill For Winter

Beauty

Check out the latest Winter 2015 collection from

Altitude Attitude Rise to the occasion in elevated sublime scarlet and scale the heights of fashion without batting a lash. $8.50

Peak Show Enjoy the view from the top.

In this scenic powder pink, it’s the place to be, in all its pretty glory.

Apres-Chic Sport this iconic platinum and go from ski bunny to winter wonderland queen. $8.50

Shall We Chalet?

Well darling, since you ask... Why not? It would be impossible to resist this seductive ruby. $8.50

Haute Tub Turn up the fashion heat and take the plunge in indulgent jet black with amethyst fire. $8.50

Virgin Snow Pure. Untouched.

Pristine. This icy frozen lavender is just waiting to be discovered. $8.50

For more information on this collection, visit: http://www.essie.com/Latest-Collections.aspx January 2016

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Beauty

Black Skin Care Tips Keeping skin radiant all the time takes more than just using the right skin care products. It also means understanding what works, what doesn’t, and when it’s time to switch up your routine.

The Basics Know your skin. The most common skin concerns for Caucasian men and women are fine lines and wrinkles, acne breakouts, loss of skin elasticity, sensitivity and dry, dehydrated skin.

However, for darker shades of skin, hyperpigmentation is the most common problem and is often referred to as dark spots, dark marks, uneven skin tone and melasma.

Hyperpigmented skin is quick to develop dark spots and dark marks – from vigorous scrubbing, squeezing blackheads, sun exposure and even exfoliating.

Cleanse, treat and moisturize according to your skin concern.

No matter what your skin concern, it's important to be gentle – and to use a product that cleanses without stripping away essential moisture or irritating the skin.

Hydration is key to beautiful, glowing, supple African-American skin; but be cautious about the moisturizer you choose; look for ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Shea Butter that hydrate the skin without making skin oily.

Use black skin care products that are specially formulated for your needs.

Like millions of others, you've probably been frustrated by mass-market products that never worked on your skin. The problem isn't your skin – it's the products.

Change your routine with the seasons. It's vital to be aware of how changes in weather affect your skin, no matter what type of skin you have.

Dry skin may act more like oily skin in the summer, normal skin may feel more sensitive in certain seasons, and skin prone to hyperpigmentation may be more susceptible to dark spots in cold weather.

The key is to notice these changes and to alter your routine accordingly.

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Do's & Don'ts DO use a Complete Acne System to clear existing acne and prevent future breakouts.

DON'T pick your zits! Picking, squeezing and popping pimples can spread infection and worsen breakouts.

DO use body lotion and moisturizer! Hydration is key to radiant, glowing brown skin.

DON'T use products with alcohol, harsh chemicals or fragrance and avoid "scrubbing" your skin.

DO use a mild, fragrance-free Gentle Cleanser and apply moisturizer within three minutes of showering to lock in moisture.

DON'T scratch. To relieve the itchiness, see your doctor for a topical cortisone cream.

DO use a gentle Hyperpigmentation System to even out skin tone without stripping away moisture.

DON'T scrub the skin or use abrasive black skin care treatments.

Cosmetics

Clothes Shoes

E S I T !

R ! !

E ! !

V E D A ER H

Nails

Accessories

Music

Hair

Movies

Food/Drink & MORE!!!!

To advertise, contact us: advertise@sistaskeepermagazine.com

Entertainment

Reality TV Demotes Black Queens Negative images shun black women’s etiquette towards each other girls are being taught to hate one another and themselves by reality television.

Television has changed over the years. It has According to “Real To Me: A Look At gone from sitcoms that the whole family could Reality TV”, the majority of teens believe that sit and watch to reality based TV. Reality shows that put woman against woman makes based shows have taken over television the show more exciting. screens in big ways.

86% of the girls believe reality TV makes We have come a long way from a time when people that fighting a normal part of a the only reality show that was on television romantic relationship. 70% of people believe was MTV’s The Real World that was based on that reality TV makes it okay to treat each strangers living in a house together as America other badly. watches the drama unfold.

Reality TV also teaches young women to Teenage girls today don’t have as many focus more on their outer beauty than what is options for what to watch on television as the on the inside. 72% of girls say they spent a lot teens of yesterday. of time on their appearance and it is said that It seems as they are being forced to watch reality television teaches young woman that to shows that teach them to look at themselves have success in life you have lie and be mean in a negative light. It also teaches them to see to people. others in a negative light.

Teenage girls are battling a lot these days For example, four women can’t sit and have and they don’t need reality television telling an intelligent conversation unless there is a them how to live and act too. drink being thrown on another woman or you They need to learn what’s real and what is slept with my man. fake and that will remedy the behavior. They The reality of this epidemic is teenage also need to know that is not how you are

By: Jamiya Turns

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supposed to act in public you have to be able have a disagreement without throwing a drink or punching someone.

They also need to know that even though it is called “reality”, they are actors who use a script and it is there job to act that way.

The companies cast specific character types that they know won’t get along just to create drama for viewers.

The girls also need to be introduced to positive woman who are doing positive things so she can see the difference.

She also needs to be introduced to positive black men in relationships so she can see that relationships don’t really have a lot of drama.

After that, they can decide to watch different shows by setting standards for herself, like “I won’t watch or listen to anything that disrespects or degrades me.”

For information on the mission to change the media depictions of women of color, visit: http://www.truthinreality.org/

Truth In Reality Pledge I am no longer willing to stay silent about the violent, racist depictions of women of color in the media, especially on reality television, & how this negative media messaging is normalizing sexual violence, bullying, domestic violence, & promoting rape culture and victim blaming.

For this reason, I pledge my support for Truth in Reality’s Redefining HERstory Movement and will use my voice to encourage others to learn how the violent portrayals of women of color on reality television is impacting our global community.

By becoming a member of the Redefining HERstory Movement, I agree to the following: • I pledge to use my voice to educate others in my community about the effects of viewing violent programming.

• I pledge to stop supporting shows that promote violent images of women of color.

• I pledge to watch, promote, and support positive programming.

• I pledge to stop being a part of conversations that promote violent shows (both online & in person).

• I pledge to support brands and companies that create, develop, or support positive programs.

Book Feature: Jumping The Education Barrier Teen scholar and author Thessalonika ArzuEmbry is one of the youngest graduates of college, having earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at age 14 and received her Master’s degree Organizational Leadership at just 16 years old.

Now, she has put all of her knowledge of the barriers that often exist in educational settings into a book called Jump The Education Barrier.

In this book, she shares her insights on speed up their educational journey with wisdom and understanding.

Some of barriers for prospective students that she discusses in the book include the amount of years spent in school, career exploration, lack of accreditation and

institutional prestige.

She also gives ways to jump those barriers like shorten the time spent in school, fully explore career choices, know the facts about accreditation and eliminate the desire to enter a prestigious institution.

Other areas of focus that she talks about in the book are admissions, tuition and financial aid, enrollment, classes and curriculum, graduation and beyond.

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Winter Wonderland

By: Alexis Knight Fashion

This chic Winter collection is has a variety of depth textures and colors. One of the most over looked styles for the Winter include prints, due to many people’s fear of the boldness it brings.

These pieces are all incorperated with a dash of color, spice and everything else nice that’s sure to sweep you off of the snow!

Welcome to Winter Wonderland.

<- In this look we we're going for the comfortable/casual look that focused on the more cool and comfortable tones such as Creme, Navy, Forest Green, and Beige.

The chunky sweater and Ugg's give you a touch of comfort and warmness.

This professional look has a very polished look to help bring together the colors and help focus on the printed pants.

The touch of Outer wear from the biker jacket and the shoes pull the look together from different angles.

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Fashion Looks

Fashion

<- Wild Thing! This outfit has many different wow factors to it that helps bring together all the Fall colors in one.

From the Cranberry Red to the Olive Green this outfit screams Wild Life. The Cream White crop Sweater gives an add of color to complete it.

The classic black and white with a hint of print provides a very clean and polished look. The focus of this outfit begins with your accessories like the printed glasses, the touch of paint on the biker jacket, the simple bangles, and the light beige case on the iPhone.

<- This outfit gives you the chic rock flare with a touch of college girl on the go.

This style is put together using your all time favorites from the rockstar rips to the preppy plaid button up.

To top the look off we included a pop of pink and asymmetrical touch of accessories.

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Cervical Health

Health

It’s never too early to think about cervical health and learn Did you know that just about all cases of Cervical Cancer is caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and can be contracted through sexual contact, including orally?

What about the fact that you could be carrying the virus and show no signs or symptoms until it is too late?

These commonly unknown facts, along with many others are why being proactive in your health is so important.

As January carries the platform for New Year’s resolutions and goals, it is also Cervical Cancer Awareness month so gather your facts and add good health to your new year’s list!

I’m sure you are reading this and wondering what is Cervical Cancer or HPV and how are they related.

Cervical Cancer is when your cervix (the lower part of your uterus) is infected and HPV is the number one cause.

Yet, cervical cancer is noted the most preventable cancer to date thanks to vaccines and early detection. Here’s how you can prevent the cause of HPV and Cervical Cancer:

Checkup & Follow-up

It is imperative that you get your yearly well-woman check-up. If you are sexually

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active and under the age of 18, do not be afraid to talk to your parents or someone you trust so you can be accompanied to your appointments.

Silence could be deadly. Pap smears are a major part of detecting the virus or any abnormalities that could be fatal.

If you have had your yearly visit and notice changes or symptoms (bleeding between menstrual cycles, heavy or bad smelling discharge, pelvic pain, etc.) that maybe abnormal, contact your doctor immediately.

The earlier, the better.

Vaccinations There are three vaccines that are available for HPV which is given throughout a six month period.

Parents, if you are reading this please take note that the vaccine has been made safe for children ages 9 & up and it is most affective if taken before becoming sexually active to avoid HPV infection.

It is also been discovered that the vaccine has a higher immune response in preteens which is why parents are encouraged to vaccinate their children as early as possible.

Many parents believe these preventive vaccines encourage their children to become sexually active and studies have proved

Awareness Month

Health

ways to prevent cancer as you continue become a woman By: De’Shauna Selby that this discourages children from asking questions or prompting “The Talk” with their parents/guardians.

Be Safe, Always!

The number one preventive method is none other than abstinence. But, if and when HPV vaccine does not protect against any you decide to become sexually active it is unsafe sex practices prior to receiving the shot, important to practice safe sex. nor does it protect against STD’s (Sexually Transmitted Diseases).

Not just until you get comfortable but consistently. In doing so, you will prevent Consult with your doctor for further details, any risk of infection or disease. If you have including side effects which are rare. questions about safe sex, visit safeteens.org but please, talk to your parent or guardian first!

For more information on cervical cancer awareness and prevention, visit: http://www.nccc-online.org/

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Relationships

By: Patrice Rivers

The ABC’s of Just like you need your body to be healthy, you

Generations of generations have tried to stand by the grounds of respect by first listening to our elders as you may know are people older than us.

Senior citizens and elders are definitely the prime ownership of what respect says and how it should be worn. It is very important to have and to show respect in each relationship you portray on a daily basis.

First let’s look at how respect can affect your everyday life. You may not know, but you deal with people every day and they observe you as you would observe others.

There are a lot of different relationships that first starts with respect because without respect, you can ask yourself “Where would I be?” Do you feel that people will generally take you seriously if you aren’t being respectful?

Look at different celebrities such as Oprah, Joyce Meyer, Denzel Washington or Jamie Foxx just to name a few. These people have come a long ways because of the respect they have for others.

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Have you ever seen them portray a negative image in the public eye or said anything negative that was going to affect some young lives or people that love them?

No because they have been taught to humble themselves through the media and on a daily basis in their lives when nobody isn’t looking.

Friendships We all should know that you can’t call everyone you associate with, mingle with or even hang out with your friend. You will hear that from your parents while you are growing up and learning still.

Sistas you are your own friend before you are anybody else’s. Don’t allow the world to corrupt your mind and soul and to think that everyone that is nice to you is your friend, those people are only telling you what feels right but isn’t.

But to develop a healthy relationship, we must first

Healthy Relationships Relationships need your relationships to be healthy too. learn to respect ourselves as a person because if we don’t, who would respect us?

Especially as young ladies we much know that we are worthy and should be treated like the queens that we are!

But back to friendships, learn to value yourself enough and love yourself enough so that you are able to learn and care for others in a friendship.

Choose your friends wisely meaning choose people to hang out with that are positive, going somewhere in life, not a gossiper, who is going to have your back and not put you down.

Never allow yourself to deal with the negativity and the drama friends can bring. It is very important to engage in a healthy and stress-free friendship.

Just practice valuing your friends and the relationships and most importantly, be involved with people who respects you and never puts you down!

These are people that are surrounded by you. Peersn. can be people you see on the street walking past you, people that are sitting next to you on a bench by the bustop or someone that is on the elevator standing next to you.

Although you don’t know them personally, it is still important to maintain that high respect level because like I said you never know who is watching you!

Look apart and be apart in your daily routine. Like the saying goes, “Treat people the way you would want to be treated!”

So respect others the way that they would want to be treated. Never engage yourself with the negative crowd nor surround yourself with drama that will deteriorate your image. Respect goes a long ways!

have told you the stories of when they were little back in the day and if they would even attempt to talk back to their parents, they will get a switch and whip them silly.

I still hear these stories not only from my parents and my grandmother and from my peers as well. The generation that we are living in now doesn’t even know what respect is!

It’s sad to say, but it is very true. You have kids that are three, eight, five, and eleven trying to take control of the parents and talking back. Some parents don’t even know how to handle the kid’s behavior because they are too much out of control.

But respecting your parents is very important because it will teach you how to respect others and what it feels like to be wise. Respect always come from the home first and is supposed to be taught.

Teachers/Mentors

Showing respect in the classrooms and to people that are trying to help you further your education or just trying to help you period can take you a long ways in life.

Why should somebody help a person that doesn’t even care about themselves? Even when teachers teach their students in the classroom, students must learn to respect their teachers and know that they are only trying to educate them for a higher learning.

Education is important and teachers must show their compassion and caring towards students to engage with them.

Building healthy relationships that is built on communication and self-respect will definitely take you a long ways.

Just like I mentioned earlier, try to avoid relationships Parents in your life that is stressful and filled with negativity and drama. Enjoy life to the fullest with the people that Now this one right here is a MAJOR importance of you care about and remember that respect can go a long respect. I’m pretty sure your parents and grandparents ways!

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Furaha

Education & Self-Esteem

Researchers continue to see a strong link between positive self-esteem & better educational outcomes In a 2014 study called Unlocking Opportunity For African American Girls:A Call To Action For Educational Equity, researchers notice that there are certain sterotypes that African-American girls face that other groups of girls don’t face.

In a 2009 study of African-American girls in New York City called Black Girls in New York City: Untold Strength and Resilience, the girls who had a strong racial identity & who described themselves as “strongly in touch with their racial heritage” or “Afrocentric”, were more likely than others to say that they were happy on a typical day, to indicate a serious commitment to their schoolwork, to get good grades, and to express a desire to go to college.

They were also more likely to believe that they would ultimately achieve their goals (64 percent versus 21 percent) and to have healthy relationships.

Evidence also suggests that positive messages and support from parents and other important adults, as well as peers, can support the development of positive race and gender identities and mitigate some of the effects of racism.

Interestingly, in a study focused on racial differences in self-esteem, African-American children scored higher than white children on certain self-esteem measures, and those differences in scores between African-American and white children were more pronounced for girls and increased with age even though many youth struggle with self-esteem during adolescence.

Unfortunately, because of systemic race and gender discrimination, African-American girls are often stereotyped before they even enter a school building, and this affects their self-perceptions and self-esteem as well as the perceptions of their teachers.

Indeed, “as African American boys and girls develop their identity and gender role perspectives, they must determine how to reconcile negative images and stereotypes and experiences of oppression into their identities and self-concepts.”

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Stereotypes of African American girls and women date back to slavery, such as the view that African American women are “angry” or “aggressive,” and “promiscuous” or “hyper-sexualized.”

Such racial and gender stereotypes shape educators’ and administrators’ views of African-American female students in critically harmful ways.

This implicit bias is rarely discussed or acknowledged, and therefore it goes virtually undetected. But addressing it is essential, as it can lead to the setting of lower academic expectations for African-American girls, significant discipline disparities and a higher rate of referrals to the juvenile justice system, all factors that push African American girls out of school.

Know Your Best Learning Style

Jando

Everyone learns differently and in order to acheive more with your education, you should know the best ways to study that fit your learning style. To start, take the quiz by The Study Gurus: http://www.thestudygurus.com/learning-styles/

Visual Learners • • • • • • • • • • •

Loves pictures and diagrams Good at reading maps and charts Create strong pictures in their minds when they read May have to think for a bit to process a speech or lecture.

Study Tips Try to make use of diagrams and charts while you study Copy down all the diagrams you can & label it properly Get good textbooks & resources that will significantly increase studying ability Watch videos during their study periods or while studying at home Use highlighters to make the important information stand out Use flash cards with diagrams or charts Replace words with symbols or initials to increase the strength of association

Auditory Learners • • • • •

• • • • •

Read & Write Learners • • • • • • • • • • • •

Enjoy reading, would rather read by themselves or to others than be read to & Work best in quiet areas Often take exhaustive or verbatim notes in class.

Prefer to study by themselves to avoid distraction.

Like articulate teachers who put a lot of information into sentences and notes.

Won’t hesitate to find a definition in a dictionary.

Study Tips Take notes to cement the ideas and facts into your head Write them in your own words Take down LOTS of notes during class & rewrite notes to get those important facts drilled into their brain Fill in the gaps and review the harder concepts with textbooks Don’t lose handouts and keep a track of all the handouts & printout material that their teachers give them throughout the year and incorporate these into study Use bullet point lists (like this one!) to condense information into small, easily ingestible bits Turn diagrams and charts into words and add as many subheadings and notes to every important diagram or chart

Tend to have incredible memories for past conversations Have a great memory for music and lyrics Enjoy discussions, debates, talking to others, listening to music, and sing/hum/whistle to themselves Prefer to give oral presentations over written reports May read slowly & have difficulty interpreting complicated graphs, maps or diagrams Study Tips Try to incorporate listening to information and repeating it out loud Ask questions during a lesson & use a voice recorder during class Watch educational videos on the topic you’re studying Use word association to learn facts and lines and make better connections when facts can be repeated out loud Repeat aloud or pick out the main points of what they’ve just learned and say it to themselves

Kinesthetic Learners • • • • • • •

• • •

Good with their hands, building models and putting things together Good at remembering things they’ve actually done before Enjoy active learning at school, such as PE, science experiments and playing sports Like adventure books and movies Become fidgety when sitting for a long period of time Tend to not have great handwriting or spelling Study Tips Use flash cards to turn simple recall into a game by writing a question or topic suggestion on one side of a card, and the answer or a list of details they should remember on the other side Study in short blocks to breaks their study up into shorter periods, but also take shorter breaks Use plenty of examples when writing study notes to make better associations with the examples than just the plain facts Study with other people to talk about what they’ve learnt is often a great way to consolidate what they’ve learned January 2016

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Maua

Quotes on Education

“Education is the key to unlocking the world...a passport to freedom."

-Oprah Winfrey

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

-Nelson Mandela

“If you educate a man, you educate an individual but if you educate a woman, you educate a nation."

-African Proverb “There is no boy, at any age, that is cute enough or interesting enough to stop you from getting your education."

-Michelle Obama 26

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Ndege

Let Knowledge Be Your ‘BAE’ Knowledge is, “bae,” the undisputed, unchallenged, infallible, heavyweight champion of the world! It is by knowledge that we are able to champion life’s most challenging obstacles and often, unfortunately, a huge stumbling block for those unwilling to consider the capacity, depth and importance of obtaining knowledge.

The quest to be informed is a lifelong journey filled with much magic and mystery but we find that on this journey many jewels are sure to be discovered.

“Knowledge is power!” Cliché? Nope; don’t think so. Dated words spoken by some old guy hundreds of years ago? Nope; not that either.

“Knowledge is power,” is an absolute, undeniable, infallible truth. In fact...

Knowledge is, “bae.”

“Schooling gives girls a better shot at health, happiness and economic prosperity and [when] girls are shut out communities and countries can’t prosper; it’s like playing with half a deck.”

These words, spoken by Cynthia Leive,

By: Tanisha Fordham

Editor-in-Chief of Glamour Magazine, resonated with me. I couldn’t help but think about all of the areas in my personal life where knowledge has been “before all else,” if you will.

Knowledge has been one of the biggest supports to my everyday life at almost every stage of my life; from the challenges that I faced in academia as a student, to my experiences competing amongst some tremendously talented individuals in various professional arenas and most recently as I traverse the rocky terrains of entrepreneurship, not only has knowledge been essential but I have learned that my ability to obtain knowledge is paramount.

If we take a step back and look at life’s big picture – this vague idea becomes much more practical and graspable.

We get up in the morning and brush our teeth because we have knowledge and information about the pain and inconvenience of tooth decay (like, who really wants to deal with a cavity?). We wash our hands after using the bathroom because we understand the grandeur of the atrocities that take place inside of individual bathroom stalls (yikes, gross!).

We wait for the light to turn green at busy street intersections because we understand that crossing early could lead to serious injury (unless you’re a New Yorker; if you’re a New Yorker, you cross the street…just kidding ladies, wait for the light to turn green!).

Knowledge is bae; knowledge is essential.

Knowledge is literally the key that opens any Continued on page 45

January 2016

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This Girl is on

FIRE!!!!!!

Scholar and author Thessalonika Arzu-Embry is a 16-year-old who has her Master’s degree & is going for her Doctorate.

T

hessalonika Arzu-Embry is just like any other 16-yearold in many ways.

However, she is unique to her peers in one major way: she now has her Master’s degree and is already pursuing her Doctorate in business law, which she plans to complete by summer 2016.

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Inspiration for Education There were many factors that inspired Thessalonika to pursue higher education at such a young age, one of the biggest being her relationship with God. “The Word of God says in Proverbs 28:5 that those who seek the Lord understand completely so that is the inspiration for me,” she says.

“My mother and grandparents also inspired me to keep on succeeding and doing good.”

Keeping A Balance Thessalonika grew up in a military family

so she did a lot of traveling when she was younger. She was able to stay focused and balance her education.

“There are very flexible ways to continue to learn by making everything a learning experience.”

Jumping Barriers Thessalonika believes that anyone can finish college at any age no matter what race they are. In her book, Jump The Education Barrier, she explains that race shouldn’t necessarily be a barrier for anyone.

“It’s about staying focused on yourself.

I was able to overcome every barrier that showed up for me with God’s help. That’s my motto,” she says.

Sharing Her Knowledge Thessalonika also has two other educational books, The Genius Race and In The Future.

She began writing books because of her own experience being so unique.

“A lot of people ask me the same questions about education. The books are not autobiographies but are how-to books to be a resource for people to complete their education.

Non-Traditional Experience

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Thessalonika recently completed her Master’s degree program at Regent University, where she was able to take classes online while traveling.

“I took classes both in the classroom and online. It’s a matter of learning regardless of the environment that you are in.”

About Thessalonika Full Name: Thessalonika Arzu-Embry Age: 16 Hometown: Chicago, IL Favorite Food: Pasta Favorite Color: Red Hobbies: Tennis, skating, roller-blading, swimming, bike-riding, What’s on your iPod? Christian & inspirational music

Connect w/ Thessalonika Thessalonika Arzu @ThessalonikaArz

She has been home-schooled during most of her education but she doesn’t feel like she missed out on much of the “traditional” educational and extra-curricular experience.

“I was always on campus studying when I was on college. I was involved with the student government, honors program, and overall campus life.”

“

I was able to overcome every barrier that showed up for me with God’s help.

That’s my motto.”

Advice on Education Thessalonika credits her faith in God as a big part of her educational success. Her advice to young girls is to trust God beyond what you know.

“The Bible says in Proverbs 3:5 to trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

She also says to take advantage of opportunities that come your way.

“If there is something that you want to do or a program that you want to get into, find out the requirement and not only meet them but exceed them,” she says.

“Also, look for ways to shorten or minimize your college experience in order to not go into debt while getting your education.

Being Her Sista’s Keeper Thessalonika does not have any sisters but she is very close with her brother. She has a lot of friends who are supportive of her pursuing her education.

“They are going forward in their own routes but we are very supportive of each other as a group.”

Her definition of being her sista’s keeper is being thankful to God for her sistas and others.

“It’s about loving your neighbor as you love yourself and as God loves you. You are very special to God and the people who He brings into your life are special too. So you have to treat them how you want to be treated.”

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Black Girl

SUPERHERO Actress Amandla Stenberg is taking a stand and using her voice to empower others.

H

er name means “power” in Zulu and Amandla Stenberg has been using the power of her voice to take a stand.

Just this year, she defended black women’s identity and culture and wrote an empowering comic book that explores race and girls’ empowerment with a rare multi-cultural star.

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Most Influential Teen Stenberg was named one of the 30 Most Influential Teens of 2015 by TIME based on her global impact through social media and overall ability to drive news.= She made a video that was widely covered by the media and examined how white “pop stars and icons adopted black culture as a way of being edgy” while staying silent on issues such as police brutality.

Cash-Cropped Cornrows That video went viral and sparked a discussion about cultural appropriation, or using other cultures as a prop instead of fully

embracing it.

She used the example of white celebrities wearing cornrows as a way to appeal to black culture while not being vocal on the issues of the culture or what’s happening to black people currently.

Niobi: She Is Life Stenberg has created a comic book to reach and empower young girls.

Niobi: She is Life centers around a girl named Niobi who is an orphan and multiethnic.

It launched in November and explores issues of identity, race and girl’s empowerment.

She relates to the character because she is also biracial.

“There was a time when I didn’t embrace my racial identity as wholeheartedly as I do now,” Stenberg says.

“So it appealed to me to explore a character who is dealing with the fall from being two different races.”

Ubuntu Education Fund

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Stenberg works with a South African organization called the Ubuntu Education Fund, which focuses on helping a specific group of 2,000 children by providing healthcare, education, scholarships, and afterschool programs.

“They contacted me and explained to me what the organization did, and I was really impressed.”

She has hosted a gala for the organization in

Connect w/ Amandla Amandla Stenberg

About Amandla

@amandlastenberg

Full Name: Amandla Brailsford Stenberg Birthday: October 23 Hometown: Los Angeles, CA Favorite Color: Purple Hobbies: Knitting, sketching, playing the violin, drums and guitar

@amandlastenberg

New York which helped Ubuntu’s mission to raise 30 million dollars in three years.

“I would love to go to South Africa to see how Ubuntu is working with the kids and meet them myself.”

Stenberg believes that if you’re really passionate about a cause, you’ll work hard enough so that you can balance everything and make time for it.

bit of work goes a long way.”

Defending Black Women

Stenberg has spoken publically about the “mentality surrounding black femininity and beauty in a society built on Eurocentric beauty standards”.

“While white women are praised for altering their bodies, plumping their lips and tanning It’s a tiny revolution to express yourself their skin, black women are shamed although the same features exist on them naturally,” she fully and be who you want to be, says. especially when systems tell you that “When the media is not ignoring black you can’t. I’ve realized how powerful it is for me to just discuss issues with young women altogether, they are disparaging them.”

She has also defended black women on the people and begin conversations.” idea that black women are always angry and have attitudes.

“End the ‘angry black girl’ narrative. It’s “I make sure that I have time to finish all my just another attempt to undermine certain schoolwork, hang out with my friends and be a normal kid, and act during the summers. It’s perspectives,” she tweeted in July 2015.

“I have strong opinions. I am not angry.” about compromising and working hard. A little

“

January 2016

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White House Vows To Working together to open the doors of education for girls around the world

To educate a girl is to build a healthier family, a stronger community, and a brighter future.

Unfortunately today, 62 million girls around the world are not in school. Half of them are adolescents.

We know that countries with more girls in secondary school tend to have lower maternal mortality rates, lower infant mortality rates, lower rates of HIV/AIDS, and better child nutrition.

But too often, a girl who could change her world for the better is locked out of that future by the circumstances of her birth or the customs of her community.

We know that a girl with an education can shape her own destiny, lift up her family, and transform her community.

That is why President Obama and First Lady 36

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Michelle Obama will be championing our efforts to help adolescent girls around the globe attend and complete school through the Let Girls Learn initiative, which will build upon the public engagement campaign the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) launched last summer.

Let Girls Learn is a government-wide effort that will leverage the investments we have made and success we have achieved in global primary school, and expand them to help adolescent girls complete their education. A key part of Let Girls Learn will be to encourage and support community-led solutions to reduce barriers that prevent adolescent girls from completing their education.

-Let Girls Learn website

First Lady Michelle Obama & Peace Corps: Supporting Community-Led Solutions Throughout her travels over the past six years, in meetings with local leaders and the Mandela Washington Fellows from the Young African Leaders Initiative, and in discussions with experts and global education advocates, the First Lady has heard first-hand about the power of community-based solutions to eliminate barriers to adolescent girls’ education around the world.

Peace Corps’ nearly 7,000 volunteers – in more than 60 developing countries – are already working side-by-side with families and community leaders.

Through the grassroots development work that Peace Corps volunteers do each and every day, they are already positioned to work with communities to identify the barriers facing adolescent girls who want to attend, and stay in, school.

This will lead to hundreds of new community projects to break down those barriers. To support this effort, Peace Corps will train thousands of volunteers and tens of thousands of community leaders; collaborate with local leaders to identify community-based solutions; and recruit, train and place hundreds of additional volunteers.

The Peace Corps Partnership Program (PCPP) will also connect volunteers with members of the public and private sector to fund small, community- initiated, sustainable, grassroots projects.

The Peace Corps’ Let Girls Learn program will be phased in globally, starting in 11 countries the first year, including: Albania, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Georgia, Ghana, Moldova, Mongolia, Mozambique, Togo, and Uganda. Additional countries will be phased in following the first year.

Organizations announcing commitments in support of this effort include: The Brookings Institution – as part of their collaboration with CHARGE (Collaborative for Harnessing Ambition and Resources for Girls’ Education), CARE, Girl Rising, Girl Scouts of the U.S.A., Global Partnership for Education (GPE), National Peace Corps Association, PBS LearningMedia, and UN Foundation/ Girl Up.

For more information about these commitments, please visit: http://www.WhiteHouse.gov/LetGirlsLearn January 2016

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Black Girls Still Face African-American girls have odds to overcome that outweigh other races By: Jamiya Turns African-American girls are still experiencing racial and gender discrimination long after the civil rights movement and the 19th Amendment which gave woman the right to vote.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sad to see that in 2016, AfricanAmerican girls are still experiencing educational as well as other barriers that prohibit the growth of young girls.

Some of the barriers include underresourced schools, disparate discipline practices, gender-based violence and harassment, and lack of support for pregnant and parenting students and lack of funding for arts programs in schools today.

Our ancestors fought so that we wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have faced any of these barriers.

But we still do because we still have so far to go as a nation. One of the largest obstacles for young women is education.

African-American girls are falling behind in their in their studies due to these obstacles. The girls are less likely to graduate high school on time.

African-American girls are more likely

to be unable to graduate high schools or pass any of the state issued testing required to enter college such as the ACT or SAT. In fact, in 2010, over one-third (34 percent) of African-American female students did not graduate on time, compared to only 19 percent of white female students and 22 percent of all female students.

The graduation rate for AfricanAmerican girls is lower than all other groups of girls, except American Indian girls, according to Unlocking Opportunity For African American Girls.

In most states, the rate of African American girls graduating high school is below average.

The statistics states only 46 percent of African American girls graduated from high school on time in Nebraska (compared to 81 percent for girls overall in Nebraska) and only 48 percent graduated on time in Nevada (compared to 66 percent for girls overall in the state).

of African-American female students do not graduate on time (2010)

of African-American girls that are being retained from kindergarten to 9th grade

34%

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21%

Continued on page 40

Barriers In Education 73% of female African American 12thgraders scored “below” when tested in science (2009)

63%

of female African American 12th-graders scored “below Basic” in mathematics (2013)

39%

January 2016

of female African American 12thgraders scored “below Basic” in reading (2013)

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There are two states where African-American girls graduate a high rate, North Dakota and Tennessee.

They graduate at 84% on time in North Dakota and 86% in Tennessee.

As for women who are 25 and over, 45 percent of them have only a high school diploma or less compared to rate of white women (36%) and 40% of woman overall.

Less than 24% of African-American women 25 and older have a bachelor’s degree, compared to one-third of all woman and 32 percent of white woman.

In addition to education, there is also scores on standardized testing. In 2013, African-American girls consistently had the lowest test scores below national average on basic level achievements in reading and math.

In 2013, almost two-thirds (63 percent) of female African American 12th-graders scored “below Basic” in mathematics and nearly four in ten (39 percent) scored “below Basic” in reading. In 2009, when 12th-graders were last tested in science, almost threequarters (73 percent) of female African American 12th-graders scored “below”.

The girls also scored below all other girls on math and reading on the NAEP assessments. The same pattern follows with other testing in grades 4 to 8 with girls seeing below basic results in reading and math on assessment test. African-American and Hispanic 12th grade girls scored lowest on regularly an assigned work.

In addition to high school dropout rates and scoring on testing, African-American girls are also being retained at high rate of 21% from kindergarten to 9th grade.

African-American girls are least likely to score highly on tests for advanced placement classes. They are also least likely to graduate high school with

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college credit. The issue is not having access to the proper college courses to help them succeed.

As far as college bound seniors in 2013, they had trouble passing the required testing the ACT and SAT test.

African Americans had the lowest of the test scores.

The class of 2012 scored lower on the ACT exam that any other group of woman.

Their average composite score of 17 out of 36 was lower than the average score for girls overall (21 out of 36).

This pattern held true for their scores in English, reading, mathematics, and science, According to the study, the girls are also scoring lowest on the STEM testing in 2012 only 6 percent of the woman scored high enough to get into college.

African American girls are also behind in math.

Even with all of those advancements in technology, African-American students are still having these troubles. We have come so far but we still have so far to go.

Although African-American girls are enrolling college, they are not enrolling in 4-year intuitions and are more likely to choose a 2-year institution.

While it is harder to get an African-American girl to attend and complete a four-year program will be harder for her obtain employment if she decides not to finish.

Another barrier girls have to face is gender discrimination men are being paid more that women.

In the STEM programs African American Girls are underrepresented.

Educational decisions have a strong impact on poverty levels. African American women are a higher rate for the poverty level. The less education she receives the least likely she will be able to succeed in life.

Barriers to Educational Success for African-American Girls African-American girls have odds to overcome that outweigh other races By: De’Shauna Selby African Americans are continuously making strides towards career, entrepreneurial and educational success.

New pathways have been paved and both new and never used doors are nowaccessible to minorities.

But, education and success for African-American girls due to school disparities and gender barriers is one gap that has not been bridged yet.

From the lack of resources and limited access to substantial learning opportunities within minority schools to sexual harassment, violence, trauma and teen pregnancy (just to name a few) are to blame for our underserved African-American girls.

Addressing such an issue requires examining the beginnings of what is ultimately setting our young girls up for systematic failure.

The first issue is the lack of access to early childhood education/ head start programs. Just 29% of American Americans make up for the children served under proper head start programs.

Studies prove that the first 5 years of a child’s development can ultimately shape their success rate later on in life.

The sad truth is low-income families, who could benefit from enrolling their young children in proper care cannot afford it which sets the tone for the educational barriers ahead.

As if the absence of early childhood education was not enough, public elementary and secondary schools pose yet another obstacle for our young children, particular our girls.

“Nearly 7 percent of the country’s African American students — over half a million students — attend schools where 20 percent or more of their teachers have not yet met state certification or licensure requirements.

Additionally, teachers in high-minority and highpoverty schools are less likely to have the necessary materials available for their classes than those in low-

minority and low-poverty schools” (naacpldf.org).

Student achievement is solely rooted in the quality and teaching methods of the educators. With standardized and cognitive test, students result in performing much lowing than their grade level.

Low performing students result to bad behavior, which leads to the next obstacle: Violence. The violence and trauma rate within our community schools are growing rapidly.

Bullying and harassment is becoming a popular trend and more often than not tragic loss is the result.

Trauma from any of these acts can affect a child’s performance but the rate is higher particularly for young girls as “being threatened or injured with a weapon on school property”, isdeemed the highest from African American girls.

This along with the astonishing fact that 56% of girls have reported experiencing sexual harassment in school. Our young girls are literally fighting for a solid education in a safe environment.

In all, data proves that our African American girls are falling between the cracks of academic success more so than any other race.

This has resulted in an increase in dropout rates, low graduation rates for both high school and college.

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Getting Ready

Education Feature

This college prep timeline provided by Minnesota Office of Higher

In 9th & 10th Grade

7th & 8th Grade • Begin thinking about the high school classes that will prepare you for college. Take the most difficult classes you can handle.

• Ask your parents or teachers to help you develop good study habits.

• Practice setting and reaching goals.

• Volunteer in your community.

• Take interest and skills assessments to help you think about possible career options.

• Talk with your school counselor and parents about careers that interest you want to explore.

• Create a tentative high school class plan.

• Enroll in a summer enrichment program.

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• Take interest and skills assessments to help you explore careers options.

• Review your high school class plan. Take the most difficult classes you can handle. Stay focused on your schoolwork.

• Talk with your school counselor about career options and the education required for those careers. • Sign up for classes that will earn college credit • Talk with your parents during your junior year about saving and paying through Advanced for college.

Placement, International Baccalaureate, • Talk with friends, Postsecondary teachers, counselors Enrollment Options or and your parents about College in the Schools. college.

• Check if your school requires 10th graders to take the PLAN to prepare for the ACT.

• Explore internships and apprenticeships.

• Enroll in a summer enrichment program.

• Participate in extracurricular activities.

Want to go to college?

It’s never too late to prepare...

For more information, visit: http://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg. cfm?pageID=1176

January 2016

For College

Education

Education will show you what you need to do to get ready for college.

Feature

In 11th Grade

In 12th Grade

• Attend college and financial aid events.

• Mentor others and have a mentor for yourself.

• Take the PSAT in the fall to prepare for the SAT, and to identify areas where you need improvement.

• Consider possible career options and investigate the type of education that is needed.

• Request materials from schools that interest you and visit their websites.

• Arrange campus visits to those schools that interest you.

• Participate in extracurricular activities.

• Request admissions and financial aid forms.

• Sign up for classes that will earn college credit during your senior year through Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Postsecondary Enrollment Options or College in the Schools.

• Register for and take the ACT and/or SAT in the spring.

• Review your high school class plan. Take the most difficult classes you can handle.

Stay focused on your schoolwork. Make sure you are meeting your high school graduation requirements.

• Enroll in a summer enrichment program.

• Get a job to earn and save money for college, or explore your skills through an internship or apprenticeship.

• Research private scholarship options.

• Stay focused on your schoolwork and take the most difficult classes you can handle.

• Take career interest assessments and determine the education needed for careers that interest you.

• Participate in extracurricular activities.

• Volunteer in the community.

December-February • Apply to four or more colleges that interest you. Some may have earlier or later deadlines. (Make copies of each application.)

• Attend a financial aid event if you haven’t already done so. Review a copy of Paying for College.

• Apply for scholarships offered by the colleges to which you have applied.

• Apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after January 1. You and your parents will need the previous year’s income tax information to complete the it.

• Review you Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy.

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Resources • Thessalonika Arzu-Embry http://www.thessalonikaarzu.com/

• College Prep Timeline http://www.getreadyforcollege.org/

• Amandla Stenberg http://www.amandlastenberg.com/

• Truth In Reality Pledge http://www.truthinreality.org/take_the_ pledge

• Let Girls Learn www.whitehouse.gov/letgirlslearn

• Mary McLeod Bethune https://ncnw.org/about/bethune.htm

Sista’s Keeper Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS

DOWN

4 70% of people believe that _____ TV makes it okay to treat each other badly 5 These learners love pictures and diagrams 6 Thessalonika’s book “Jump The Education _____” 7 The White House’s initiative Let Girls _____

1 _____ 2 3 8 Life

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Black Women In History feature Mary Mcleod Janet Jackson’s dancer _____ Harris January is _____ Cancer Awareness Month Amandla Stenberg’s comic book _____:She is

Knowledge, Continued from page 27

and every door that we might find ourselves standing outside of.

From understanding how to communicate with others, to self-preservation, to education, to obtaining our goals, without knowledge we find ourselves incapable of reaching our dreams, but more damaging, we find ourselves locked out of living fulfilling lives in some of the most fundamental ways.

If countries and communities can’t prosper without educated ladies, imagine how damaging it is to us as individuals to lack knowledge. I’ve been struggling, lately, with this imagining.

I wonder why I didn’t take my education more seriously in high school and college. I remember thinking to myself, “What does this have to do with anything? When will I ever use this in real life?”

As I have gotten older I have been surprised

to find that you never know when you’ll need the knowledge that is given but knowledge is never wasted.

Whether it is the act of learning, the strength that is cultivated in stretching and sharpening your brain or the actual information that will be applied practically at a later date knowledge is like money if you spend it, waste it, exploit or misuse it you will find yourself busted and broke but the more money you put in the bank, be it coins, dollars, checks, or foreign currency, the richer you will become.

Get it? Got it? Knowledge is, “bae.”

We must learn to put knowledge first because it is by knowledge that we will find ourselves rich in every area of our lives.

Knowledge is, “bae.” “Knowledge is power.”

Knowledge is the real MVP. Knowledge is truth and, “the truth shall set you free.”

Like this issue?????

Let us know what you think...

• • •

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Black Women In History

Mary McLeod Bethune Civil Rights Activist And Educator Who Founded Bethune-Cookman University For African-American Students

“

Knowledge is the prime need of the hour.”

-Mary McLeod Bethune

“

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We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends.”

1875: Born Mary Jane McLeod on July 10th in Mayesville, South Carolina, a child of former slaves 1893: Graduated from the Scotia Seminary for Girls (now Barber-Scotia College), a school for girls in Concord, North Carolina 1904: Founded the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute, which later became Bethune-Cookman College; starting out with only five students, she helped grow the school to more 250 students over the next years

Early 1950s: Appointed by President Harry Truman to a committee on national defense and appointed her to serve as an official delegate to a presidential inauguration in Liberia 1955: Died on May 18th in Daytona, Florida.

Mary McLeod Bethune is remembered for her work to advance the rights of both African Americans and women. Since her passing, Bethune has been honored in many ways:

1924: Served as the president of the Florida chapter of the National Association of Colored Women (NACW) for many years; became the organization’s national leader

1973: Inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame

1935: Founded the National Council of Negro Women

1994: The U.S. Park Service bought the former headquarters of the NCNW; now known as the Mary Mcleod Bethune Council House National Historic Site

1936: Became the director of the Division of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration

1985: The U.S. Postal Service issued a stamp with her likeness

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Sista’s Keeper

I AM my Sista’s Keeper

January 2016 Vol. 4, Issue 3

DOUBLE COVER

Education Issue

Spotlight: Kyndall Harris

Thessalonika Arzu-Embry Let Girls Learn Reality TV vs. Black Girls

Plus: Education & Self-Esteem Know Your Learning Style Education Quotes Knowledge is Bae

Amandla Stenberg

Black Girls & Education

Black Girl SUPERHERO