Greene Street Friends School, The Center for Black Educator Development and Uncle Bobbie’s proudly bring to you a critical conversation on education in our current times.

Join us as we welcome the former Secretary of Education, John B. King Jr. for the release of his new book, Teacher By Teacher.

John will be in conversation with the CEO of The Center for Black Educator Development, Sharif El-Mekki. They will be discussing the book, John’s journey and career and the current state of education in America.

A Q&A will follow the discussion.

This event is Free to the public.

The first 200 attendees will receive a free copy of Teacher by Teacher.

You don’t want to miss this!

******

About the book:

Teacher by Teacher chronicles the life of John B. King Jr., the 10th U.S. Secretary of Education, and serves as a tribute to the transformative power of educators. The story begins with a pivotal moment in King’s youth when, after the death of his mother, he chose to go to school for comfort. Despite facing significant personal challenges, including caring for a father with undiagnosed Alzheimer’s, it was his teachers who provided him with stability, guidance, and belief in his potential. They created a nurturing environment where King could thrive, despite his tumultuous home life, giving him the opportunity to heal and grow.

King’s remarkable journey continued as he earned degrees from prestigious institutions like Harvard, Columbia, and Yale, and eventually dedicated his career to improving education for others. Teacher by Teacher is both an inspiring memoir and a reflection on how dedicated educators can be life-changing figures. King’s experiences emphasize the critical role of teachers and mentors, particularly for underserved students, in offering not just academic knowledge but hope, survival, and resilience. The book highlights the profound impact of mentorship and education in shaping individuals, particularly those navigating difficult circumstances.

About the author:

John B. King Jr. served in President Barack Obama’s cabinet as the tenth U.S. Secretary of Education. Over the course of his extensive and influential career in public education, he has been a high school social studies teacher, a middle school principal, the first African American and Puerto Rican to serve as New York State Education Commissioner, a college professor, and the president and CEO of the Education Trust, a national education civil rights organization.

King is currently the chancellor of the State University of New York (SUNY), the nation’s largest comprehensive system of public higher education. Both of King’s parents were career New York City public school educators. He lives in Brooklyn, New York, with his wife, an education researcher and former teacher, and his two daughters.

******

Key Details

Doors will open at 6:00pm

Seating will be on a first come, first serve basis. Registration does not guarantee seating.

The entrance will be on West Armat Street – accessible entrances and bathrooms are available.

Books will be on sale during the event