Young, Gifted, and Black 2012

In its third year, the Young, Gifted and Black 2012 tribute continues to focus on telling a story of persistence, hard work and student success – success that has been highlighted as a model for all students.

Since this program began in 2010, several hundred students have been nominated by classroom teachers, counselors, principals and community members. Graduating students have continued their education at colleges and universities throughout the country – Tuskegee, Penn State, Lewis & Clark College, Grinnell College and Portland State, among others. YGB students balance athletics, music, community service and other extracurricular activities demonstrating what is required to be a student scholar.

The Portland Public Schools Board of Education adopted a Racial Educational Equity Policy in June 2011. That policy is intended to acknowledge race and address race-based disparities in student achievement. Young, Gifted and Black is intended to tell a counterstory; namely, the experience of black students is not monolithic, as is often portrayed in mainstream media. Black students come from diverse backgrounds and have myriad experiences, but they have a shared identity as black people representing the African diaspora.

We are proud to share with you student success stories. Please join me in acknowledging all of this year's honorees as well as the nominees and wishing them continued success.

Reiko Williams
Program Director, Family Engagement
Portland Public Schools

 Young Gifted and Black Honorees 2012
Download a pdf of the 2012 Young, Gifted & Black honorees