oakland freedom schools 2012 yearbook

OAKLAND FREEDOM SCHOOLS u m m e r 2 0 1 2

Oakland, California

3Oakland Freedom School 2012 Yearbook

You have completed the summer of Oakland Freedom Schools 2012, an experience you will never forget!

We hope you have appreciated learning all about your culture, heritage and history as children of African decent for the purpose of instilling a strong sense of pride in who you are.

We also hope you have grown a love for reading and great books written by and about black people from all over the world.

Lastly, we hope you continue to internalize and express the principles of unity and self determination and pulling together our hearts, our minds and our spirits for the liberation of all people everywhere!

Macheo Payne

LaCole Martin

Nedra Ginwright

Congratulations OFS 2012!

With Love,

The OFS Leadership Team

LaCole Martin, Site Coordinator

Nedra Ginwright & Macheo Payne, Co-Directors

“OFS! We Manifest! We choose the path that’s best from east to west, we put ourselves to the test ‘cause we refuse to settle for less!”

Youth Volunteers: Khari, Benny, Simone, Adriana, Umar, Ali, DJ, Ammar, Shaun, Christiana, Michael, Ife, Mya, Malia, Elijah, and Kiara.

Community service organizations BayUp, OUSD African American Male Initiative, CEO Program.

Thank you OFS Volunteers!

OFS Photos, Videos, and Updates: www.Facebook.com/OakFreedom4

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OFS

The

AFRICAN AVENGERS

Meet the 2012 OFS Servant Leader Teacher Interns

OAKLAND FREEDOM SCHOOLCONTENTS

CLASS PHOTOS8 Bro. Sizwe10 Sis. Tiara12 Sis. Melissa14 Sis. Samiyah16 Sis. Jasmine20 Bro. Justin22 Sis. Tyresa24 Bro. Sahfari28 Bro. Eric30 Sis. Marketa32 Bro. Durwin

EVENTS18 D.E.A.R. Day 2012

Drop Everything And Read Aloud

26 OFS HipHop DayRespecting the history, culture

38 Parent ‘Chat and Chew’Drop Everything And Read Aloud

FIELD TRIPS6 Lawrence Hall of Science

OFS Scholars explore the sciences

36 Academy of ScienceOFS Scholars explore the world

Design, Layout and Photographs by Reginald James (unless noted otherwise)

www.reginaldjames.info

Oakland Freedom School (OFS), a partnership between Leadership Excellence and Lincoln Child Center, is a five-week literacy and cultural enrichment program serving children ages 5-14 years old.

SUMMER 2012

26 6

18CLASS PHOTOS

What do 2012 OFS Scholars want to be when they grow up?

See Pages 8-35

Oakland Freedom School 2012 Yearbook

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LAWRENCE HALL OF SCIENCEUniversity of California, Berkeley; Berkeley, Calif.

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The Kwame Nkrumah class of OFS 2012 was definitely Faannttastic, Teeerrrriiifffic, Grrreeeaatttt, ALL DAY LONG!

This year scholars were able to experience a taste of West Africa through historical analysis, creative play, innovative art activities, and a wealth of culturally relevant children’s books.

Our primary focus was on Ghana and the importance of African unity. As a class we created our own Adinkra Cloth, made Ghanaian flags, and discussed the importance/ beauty of our African Diaspora.

The scholars loved when I would come dressed in Kinte Cloth outfits or bring artifacts to the classroom like an Ashanti mask or different fabrics that came from the continent.

Although these five weeks have went by in the blink of an eye I am very proud of the Kwame Nkrumah Class and see growth within every Scholar.

This summer at OFS has truly been POWERFUL! HARAMBEE!!

With Love,

Brother Sizwe

KWAME NKRUMAH

‘Africa Must Unite!’ – Nkrumah

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Sizwe’s Kwame Nkrumah Class Level 1

Giovanni Librick To Be Determined

Javaughn BaileyBasketball Player

Safir Stills Soccer Player

Ayoluwa ThomasDoctor

Deshara Reed Firefighter

Tasahni RochellBasketball Player

Tyna Aushin Princess

Nassor Gant Father

Tajiri McCallaBasketball Player

Tesla Anaman Doctor

Red is for Our BloodYellow is for Our Richness

Green is for Our LandBlack is for Our Diaspora

Kwame Nkrumah


I fondly refer to my class as ‘Clase’...which is simply class in Spanish. The children are amazing little students with big personalities. I feel so much love coming from them, and I try my best to return the favor.

They enjoy our class discussions where we’ve talked about everything from nightmares about one eyed green monsters to discussions about favorite fruits! They love playing in centers, which are 3 areas where they rotate in groups and play with toys, play dough, and practice writing by copying text out of books.

Their favorite book this summer, is one from my personal collection, called “Meeow”. Meeow is a black cat with some cool animals friends!

We are excited to be putting together a mini play inspired by “Meoow” for the OFS graduation!

So get ready to round your applause for the OFS players: Ella, Harmony, Santiago, Frank, Akeelah, Erika, Jacob, Violet & A’nami!.

With Love,

Sister Tiara10

La Clase

‘I feel so much love coming from them.’


Eliana Dyas-CrayVeternarian, Baker

Erikah WashingtonDoctor

Harmony MarbleyPop Star

A’nami AndersonDoctor

Akeelah NelsonLawyer

Santiago SodayeAstronaut

Xavi’Yer DoakesMerman

Frank TiscarenoGazillionaire

Jacob ShippTo be Determined

Violet ShippFashion Model

Sista Tiara’s Class (Clase) Level 1

Books to Read:

“Those Shoes” by Maribeth Boelts

‘Paulie Pastrami Achieves World Peace’ by James Posimos

“Mr. George Baker” by Amy Hest

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My name is Melissa Jones and this was my first year teaching at OFS.

My experience with the students have been phenomenal. From singing to dancing to reading and art projects, we have definitely been a class that has explored all of the possibilities of a fun learning environment.

The theme of my classroom was “Madagascar,” also known as the jungle safari. We have introduced some animalistic characters onto our environment as well as being free within our own jungle.

I have made connections with the scholars and have seen many breakthroughs such as parents commenting on

how OFS has invaded their households and how reading to their children inspires them daily.

Their have been many books in the class that my scholars have connected to and have definitely enjoyed.

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Jaylin Brown Singer, Dancer

Kevin McDanielBaseball Player

Makeda Booker To be Determined

Samahdi Scott Doctor

Makayla GilderTeacher

Marquez MartinPolice

Amin ScottProfessional Boxer

Elijah Davis Beyblade Master

Sunni Scott

Firefighter, Professional Boxer

The fourth week incorporated the Globe, and trivia games to increase their knowledge and explore other cultures.

Five weeks expresses our understanding and purpose of life.

For instance, ”Those shoes” by Maribeth Boelts has been a favorite to read at D.E.A.R time.

I have made it a point to include my scholars talents and ideas to make since of themselves in the first week.

In the second week I have inspired them to incorporate their families; making them cards, sharing, appreciating togetherness.

In the third week we went to the park to clean our community, explain that within this space we should pull together in Harambee in our cities.

We have come full circle in gaining knowledge about ourselves, OFS culture, and different people.

We are all one unit, one sound, one big Harambee circle for life.

I am honored to have been apart of this experience and I am looking forward to OFS next year.

Sister Melissa

Sister Melissa’s Class Level 1


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Graphic: http://w

olfberry-j.deviantart.com/

Sister Samiyah

YEMAYA

Yemaya is a Goddess of Yoruba origins in West Africa. She is the Mother of all Orishas, the essence of Motherhood, and a protector of children. Goddess of the Ocean, she is depicted as a mermaid.

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Sista Samiyah’s Class Level 1

Dabria Reed Fashion Model

Dialo AsheDoctor

Hanif HowardTo be fulfilled

Kaiefay Ninja

Elijah BurciagaScientist

Javier Ulises TelloWrestler

Ajene Snaer Rockstar, Spy

Caleb Kuper Basketball Player

Maurice RichardsonSuperhero

Omega Andrews-Abakah

Ballet Dancer

Taylor Sky CriswellVeternarian

Zaniya Teacher

Keylan BrownSuperhero

‘Where Water is Boss,The Land Must Obey’

– African Proverb


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The Freedom Airway Class focused on recognizing their potential and abilities as young African American scholars and working together as one.

The class completed arts and crafts that were related to text material themes such as self-esteem, recognizing their individual talents and working collectively.

The scholars participated in some team building activities that required them to not only get to know each other, but to

FREEDOM AIRWAYS

learn how to work together to achieve a common goal.

The youth collaborated with Sis Marketa Class

Level 2 to discuss different forms of bullying in order to raise their awareness.

The class shared their knowledge about bullying to others. I enjoyed having the opportunity of meeting some very wonderful and talented scholars.

I look forward to being a part of OFS in 2013.

Sister Jasmine

I enjoyed having the opportunity of meeting some very

wonderful and talented scholars.

Sky’s the Limit with Freedom Air

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Sista Jasmine’s Class Level 1

Anjelay ScottDoctor

Evelyn Rose Snelgo-Bilal

Police

Isis BrownSinger

Kylon BrooksFootball Player

Fiyah Andrews-Abakah

Inventor, Basketball Player

Kahari MercadelRapper

Alisya HuntTeacher

Amir McLeod Robinson

Bus Driver

Myriana Williams-Powel

Singer, Princess


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D.E.A.R. DAY Drop

Everything And Read

The community came out in full force to support Oakland Freedom School for “D.E.A.R. Day” on Wednesday, July 11 at Frick Middle School.

D.E.A.R. Day, or Drop Everything And Read Aloud Day, is an annual OFS event where OFS Scholars read with to community members.

This page – Clockwise from top: Group photo; OFS puts the “A” in ‘Games”; Baba Greg Hodge offers libation after giving OFS History; Leadership Excellence co-founder Dr. Shawn Ginwright salutes; OFS Scholars “Chant Down Babylon”; Oakland poet Ise Lyfe.

Opposite page – Community members read aloud with our 2012 Oakland Freedom School Scholars.

HERU THE HAWKYoung Freedom FighteRSThe scholars of the 2012 Oakland Freedom School Heru the Hawk: Young Freedom Fighters class showed their intelligence, power, resilience, potential and energy every day.

Our class began with level 2 scholars and grew to become a high-powered group of both levels 2 and 3 OFS Scholars.

These young scholars displayed

their enjoyment of reading, overcame fears, exercised daily and have been able to investigate and enjoy music, science, nature and technology through our weekly field

trips and afternoon enrichment.

These young Heroes showed they’re physical strength running races, doing pushups, completing jumping jacks and even carrying younger students across the basketball court in leaps and bounds.

Students also showed their creativity, discipline, strength, talent, diligence and focus through independent reading, drumming, drawing and photography on our field trip.

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As continued, these scholars transformed and grew, gaining greater control of their energy and increasing knowledge of self by choosing powerful Black leaders from throughout the world to represent for the completion of OFS 2012.

It is an honor and blessing to work with our young scholars on their path to becoming their greatest selves.

Brother Justin

“I freed a thousand slaves I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew

they were slaves.” – Harriet Tubman

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Bro Justin’s Class Level 2/3

Cleveland KennedyScientist, Inventor, Artist, Football and Basketball Player

Essau Robins-Bilal To be determined

Massai CrudupMotocross Racer

Reginald ColeAmtrak Driver

Jahi Miller-MathewsBuilder

Rashid PowellPhotographer

Billy MappTo be Determined

Braeden VelozaTo be determined

Willie Coleman Spy

Yhzekel Y-kahsaiPhysicist

Sala AdamsVeternarian W

inged Heru: D

aCreativeG

enius

“The most potent weapon in the hands of the oppressor is the mind of the oppressed.”

–Steve BikoOakland Freedom School 2012 Yearbook

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To the Kings and Queens of Oakland Freedom School.

Music and song is an essential element of life. Freedom school represents fun, reading, excellence, energy, determination, open mind, music, creativity, Harambee, Oakland, elevation, and Love.

Reading is important because it keeps your brain activiated and helps you learn. Be smart. Stay happy.

Sistah Reese (Tyresa)

OTOWNRECORDS


Sista Tyresa’s Class Level 2

Ericka Marbley Dancer

Malik Hensley-PrincePolice

Marcus RubioPilot

Nia PooleBabysitter

Mandume KaluenjaChemist

Naomi YdeSinger

Alyssa BelisleTeacher

Elijah Payne Lawyer

Yolisa AdamsActress

Salaam LateefSinger

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The activities of the OFS

Spy Class are Top Secret.

Brother Sahfari

SPY CLASS

MyaGynecologist

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Bro. Sahfari’s Class Level 2

Baraka LiuruwiAstronaut

Damarion ColeProfessor

Jakai TutlerBasketball Player

Konyae MillerPolice

Gabrael Bey Best Skateboarder on Earth

Kalani LimbrickMotorcycle Driver

Andrew RiceBasketball Player

Asa DobyPolice

Simone Jacot-BellArtist

Saja DuchicelaSoccer Player


IfetayoActress

Cou

nter

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Cou

nter

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ellig

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DE

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CTO

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Photo: Brotha D

HIP HOP DAY 2012OFS hosted the third annual ‘Hip Hop Day’ on June 22. The event, organized by Brother D, featured dancing led by Kat Brown, a freestyle by Mistah F.A.B., and more.

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Photo: Kahnai Kahuai

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This summer, students explored family relationships defining what makes “family” enabling them the ability to identify positive interaction with members of their own family.

Through the creative process of artwork, poetry, journal writing, and reading, the students of Brother Eric’s Level

Three OFS class were successful in developing an appreciation for their community and their self-worth.

Scholars were motivated to overcome circumstances. And by learning from real-life experiences, these scholars are dedicating

themselves to making a positive impact in their “Different World.”

Brother Eric

The OFS scholars from “A Different World” are a multi-talented and intelligent group.

Bro. Eric’s Class Level 3

Isiah HubbardVeternarian

Jehni StewartMusician, Singer

Nahla LimbrickFashion Designer

Sage RossSinger

Marion IvyChef

Quincy GroveSoccer Player

De’Sonn ShippBasketball ‘Superstar’

Emerson RodriquezTeacher

Trevon ReedusScientist

Tisjah MartinBasketball Player


“Be the Change you Desire to See in the World.”

Not pictured: Teyveon McBride

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Freedom Eagles

Sister Marketa

Discipline

Accountability

Reciprocity

Ecosystem

Analogy

Autumn Bryant-Williams

ChefBernard HydeTo be fulfilled

D’Niya Jay-PrimSinger

Kaia MercadelVeternarian

Delaney MappTo be fulfilled

Jeremiah GoodeFootball Player

Amir StillsSoccer Player

Amore’ RoseMarine

Sis. Marketa’s Class Level 3

Kwame GloverBasketball Player

London GriggsBaseball Player, Racecar Driver

Talyah ColeChef

Sierra SuarezChoreographer

Virginia ShippBaker

Kailen Curtis To be fulfilled

Kaliyah ScottLawyer


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My name is Bro. D. I am both proud and excited to have taught for my eighth consecutive Oakland Freedom School summer.

I primarily teach the Level 4 Adolescent youth, ages 11-14. My classroom is named in honor of Bro. Tupac Amaru Shakur. My class curriculum entailed Classical African Civilizations, Critical Thinking, Creative Writing, Media/Video/Entertainment analysis, and language etymology.

Unlike the ‘normal’ classrooms most youth are used to, my class was ALWAYS lively, fun, totally interactive, and informative.

My mission is to groom the innate greatness within the youth!”

“I teach the youth to use their REAL EYES to REALIZE REAL LIES!”

– Bro. D.

Tupac Amaru Shakur

“If you Believe, Then you can Achieve.”

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Anthony Lindzie IIIFootball Player

Auseon VaughnSkateboarder

Daniyah Powell Lawyer

Edward HannahFootball Player

Jabari JohnsonBasketball Player

Jarrell IvyActor

Justin Ross Football Player

Kahnai KahuaiChef, Photographer

Bro. Durwin’s Class Level 4

Kobi ThompsonTo be Fulfilled

Mariah ConleyProfessional Dancer, Dentist

Marshaunne JonesSwagnician, Computer Technician

Monticia ScottTo be Fulfilled

Nyah GinwrightTo be Fulfilled

Shanell HudsonPolice

Stardazia HaileySinger

N’Namdi NassorNeurologist

Level 4 Bro. Durwin’s Class

Symone Woodruff-Hardy

DancerWinston GroveCartoon Illustrator

YahnaiJah GilliamForensic Scientist

"I'm not saying I'm gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that

will change the world." –Tupac Amaru Shakur

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Bro. Durwin’s Class Level 4

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CALIFORNIAACADEMY OF SCIENCES

July 13, San Francisco, Calif.

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Every week, OFS parents gathered to network and discuss ways families can support themselves and each other.

The “chat and chew,” was facilitated by Colette Reid, MSW of the Lincoln

Child Center. Parents discussed ways to stay organized, stay healthy, and stay connected.

Stay connected: www.leadershipexcellence.org

Do you like the photos?

More photos online:

www.facebook.com/ OakFreedom

Parent ‘Chat & Chew’

Phot

o: K

ahna

i Kah

uai

OFS Photographer Reginald James

AUTOGRAPHS

Leadership Excellence

leadershipexcellence.org

Oakland Fund for

Children & Youth

Oakland Freedom School ‘12

oakland freedom schools 2012 yearbook

Education