Coffee and Conversation

Have you ever had a moment where you felt like you’ve been screaming into the universe for years, and then out of nowhere you somehow stumble upon people who get it? It’s like either those people have been yelling at the universe too, or the universe has a funny way of showing you that it hears you. 

Well, just recently- 2/15/2024 to be exact- I had the opportunity to attend a parent engagement opportunity at Starbucks in Bessemer, and it felt like I had definitely stumbled upon people who get it.

I had no idea what to expect, but let me tell you it was EVERYTHING. If I had to describe my experience of Coffee and Conversation, I’d say it’s a carved out space and opportunity for not only parent of scholars, but also stakeholders, community members, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and love ones to share concerns and ideas in a nonjudgmental, non-pressure filled atmosphere. 

The attendance was so intentional and purposeful. In addition to the parent coordinator and parents being there, the district’s testing coordinator, student services representatives, and multiple mental health support specialist were there as well. 

Conversation topics ranged from self care suggestions, to accuracy in attendance reporting, all the way to report card versus middle of the year testing results. 

At Coffee and Conversation we learned that the district encourages parents to be submerged into the data. Perhaps the most refreshing moment was when we were made aware that the district’s educational-board has transparently posted its January Board Meeting (as well as other meetings) on YouTube. The January Board Meeting is where parents can go to hear board meetings discuss the school-district’s 2024 Middle of the Year Testing Results. The MOY Presentation starts at 2:09:55

Family, if you missed Coffee and Conversation on 2/15/2024, you missed a treat. But don’t worry! It’s held bi-weekly by the District Parent Coordinator in Bessemer’s local Starbucks, and I hope you can attend the next meeting to support your scholar. As always, be encouraged as you continue to unapologetically advocate for OUR children.