The mission of Sirtify is to recruit and support Black, African American and African men into elementary and secondary education pathways.
It’s been proven that representation makes a difference in a child’s life. A study published in the American Economic Journal looking at Black boys in the elementary grades showed that those with a Black male teacher were 29% less likely to drop out of school years later and 39% for very low-income Black students. According to the Department of Education, only 2% of teachers in the country are Black men. In Minnesota, just 0.5% of teachers are Black males.Students of color and American Indian students frequently do not have access to teachers who share their ethnic or racial identities. In Minnesota (according to the Minnesota Department of Education), only 5.9% of our teacher workforce identify as teachers of color or American Indian teachers; whereas 36.7% of our students identify as students of color or American Indian students.
The Sirtify program envisions a world where Black, African American, and African men have the tools, skills and support necessary to rewrite the negative narratives placed upon them by society. Our program seeks to empower Black men in education to have a positive impact on all students especially those from similar backgrounds, and all are welcome to apply.
Sirtify will provide:
If you are interested in applying click on the Program Application and fill out the form. For questions or more information, contact Associate Vice President of Equity & Inclusion Corey Crowder at corey.crowder@normandale.edu or Sirtify® Program Academic Adviser Keanna Levy at keanna.levy@normandale.edu.
Sirtify was first known as Black Men in Teaching when the program launched in Fall 2021.
"Sirtify’s cohort learning model has helped me grow as a student teacher. I have learned alternative ways to teach through being around so many different perspectives."
What made you choose to enroll in the Siritfy® Program at Normandale?
I wanted to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher.
Why is it important to be part of this program?
It is important because I get to be part of something special, and it is great to be with a group of individuals who have the same goals as me through this program.
How has being part of a cohort group helped your experience in the program?
It has helped me grow as a student teacher, because I have learned alternative ways to teach through being around so many different perspectives.
What are your career goals in the education field?
I want to become a first-grade teacher or guidance counselor.
What are some of your interests, passions and/or hobbies outside of the classroom?
I enjoy bowling, basketball and golf.
Make a secure online donation to the Normandale Community College Foundation. Your investment in education transforms individuals, families, and communities!
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