Black male teachers are leaving the profession at alarming rates. Despite being only 1.3% of the teaching workforce, they have a profound impact on the academic and social success of all students, particularly those who identify as Black. Research shows that having just one Black teacher increases a Black student’s chances of enrolling in college by 13%, and having two Black teachers increases enrollment by 32%. Yet, the reality is that 77% of Black male teachers leave within the first three years of teaching.

So, why are they leaving?

Dr. Travis Bristol’s and his team’s research highlights a critical factor: Black male teachers often feel isolated in schools and preparation programs, both of which tend to be predominately white spaces. In his study on Black male preservice teachers, Bristol found that these educators often experience heightened scrutiny and a sense of being perceived as the “angry Black man” during discussions about race. This pressure creates an environment where Black male teachers feel unable to express their needs or challenges openly. Oftentimes, these experiences carry over to their careers. However, affinity groups—spaces specifically designed for Black male teachers to connect with one another—can change that narrative.

According to Bristol’s study, “The affinity group provided a space for participants to share their needs and challenges openly, without fear of judgment or criticism from others in the group.” In these groups, Black male teachers can express their needs without fear of judgment and gain tools for self-advocacy. Participants in Bristol’s research reported feeling empowered to tackle both personal and professional challenges through these supportive networks.

He is Me Institute is addressing this exact need through the Black Male Teacher Network, a community specifically for Black male educators. The Network offers professional support, networking opportunities, and leadership development, ensuring that Black male teachers grow in their careers and remain in the profession. A report from DonorsChoose highlights how Black male teachers, in particular, thrive in environments where they are supported and connected to others. Affinity spaces, like the Black Male Teacher Network, are vital in creating these conditions, where Black male educators can mentor each other and share best practices.

But the impact of the Network extends beyond current educators. Teachers within the Black Male Teacher Network are also instrumental in supporting He is Me Institute’s programs for aspiring Black male teachers in high school and college. Through mentorship and guidance, they help these young men explore teaching as a profession. This direct pipeline of support ensures that more Black men are exposed to the field early, strengthening the recruitment of future Black male educators.

As part of the Network, we are launching a train-the-trainer model for affinity groups. This initiative will equip Black male teachers with the skills to lead affinity spaces in their own schools, further expanding the reach and impact of these supportive environments. After participating in He is Me affinity groups this past spring, 61% of Black male teachers expressed interest in leading the groups in the future.

Research has shown that affinity groups don’t just provide emotional support; they also contribute to professional growth. Bristol’s study found that participation in these groups fosters self-reflection, improves teaching practices, and even leads to a greater sense of empathy toward students. At He is Me, we’ve seen similar results. Our Black Male Teacher Network participants report feeling more confident in their roles and more committed to remaining in the profession after participating in our programs.

Affinity groups are more than just support systems—they are lifelines for Black male teachers.

This fall, we are taking our work a step further by convening a Steering Committee composed of a diverse set of Black male educators. This committee will ensure that the activities and resources provided through the Network are tailored to the specific needs and challenges faced by Black men in education. By directly involving the voices of Black male teachers in shaping the Network’s future, we aim to create a model that both supports and retains these crucial educators.

Affinity groups are more than just support systems—they are lifelines for Black male teachers who are often navigating complex challenges in their schools. The Black Male Teacher Network is addressing this need head-on by providing Black male educators with a community where they can grow, connect, and thrive.

Since launching programming in 2020, He is Me Institute has earned the support of hundreds of individuals who believe in our mission to recruit, retain, and retire more Black male teachers. We invite you to join this growing community of supporters by donating to help expand our affinity groups and ensure more Black male teachers have the tools they need to remain in the profession and make lasting impacts on their students. Your support of the Black Male Teacher Network helps retain Black male teachers and ensures that generations of students benefit from the lasting academic and social impacts that Black male educators have been proven to provide. Let’s keep Black men in our nation’s classrooms for the sake of our children.