 Meet Mr. Ernest Blackwell
Educator, Propel Schools
Ernest Blackwell, aka Mr. B., never intended to be in a classroom. During his college years, Ernest had decided upon a law career and that a courtroom, not a classroom, was the place for him. While preparing law school applications in his senior year of college, Ernest volunteered as an afterschool tutor - an event that would change the course of his career.
“I noticed a student in the hallway who was just frustrated with his work and was unable to be calmed by any staff. After speaking with his teacher she stated “This is just what he does”. That comment really struck a tone with me. I found myself constantly thinking about that and the lack of expectations she had for her students. I had never considered education before. I found myself asking ‘what can I do?’ while knowing that I HAD to do something. I reflected upon my past and remembered I had teachers just like that who didn’t care and didn’t expect much of me. I can count on one hand the teachers who actually motivated me and expected greatness from me. I knew then that it was time for me to be in the classroom.”
Propel is committed to finding and preparing more "Mr.B's" through our Pittsburgh Urban Teaching Corps. If you have what it takes to follow Mr. B's path and make a difference in the lives of urban youth, please visit the pghurbanteachers.org website to learn more about Propel and how you can join the ranks of professional who care enough to be Propel Proud!
To read more about the story of Ernest (Mr. B.), read the entire article HERE
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