Village of Wisdom

Year Founded: 2014

Village of Wisdom believes that when Black parents are positioned as experts and collaborators in education, they can shape learning environments that affirm identity, foster belonging, and improve academic and social-emotional outcomes for all students. Through parent-led assessment tools and educator training, they work to embed culturally affirming practices systemically.

Village of Wisdom stands out as the only organization coupling educator training on culturally affirming instruction with the direct leadership of Black parents. Their innovative tools, research-based frameworks, and growing knowledge dissemination work align with New Profit’s Education strategy and address long-standing biases in the education system.

Founded in 2014, Village of Wisdom is based in Durham, NC and is expanding its national reach through virtual programs and digital tools.

Founder and Executive Director Dr. Will Jackson, a Black parent and former educator, leads VOW with a deep commitment to proximate leadership, rigorous research, and community-centered innovation.

Impact Highlights:

• Classrooms using VOW’s frameworks show higher attendance, improved academic outcomes, and fewer suspensions.
• Their Dreamship fellowship strengthens Black parents’ wellness and skill development, with 100% of Dreamship parents reporting feeling more confident using the Black Genius framework, and 80% of parents reporting feeling more confident creating culturally affirming learning.