Building Purpose, One Student at a Time
About Purpose Academies
Our Story
At Purpose Academies, we are passionate about providing a safe and supportive learning environment to all individuals, regardless of their background or location. We believe that an equitable education is a pathway out of poverty, a powerful tool that can transform lives and create the positive change we so desperately need in the world.
This Black Mom In Arizona Is Stepping Up Where Schools Are Falling Short For Black Children
This Black Mom In Arizona Is Stepping Up Where Schools Are Falling Short For Black Children
This Black Mom In Arizona Is Stepping Up Where Schools Are Falling Short For Black Children
Founder and CEO of the Black Mothers Forum, Janelle Wood, wants to ensure that Black children are safeguarded and prepared to excel in educational settings.
Black Moms Open Microschools to Help Children of Color Succeed and Feel Safe
This Black Mom In Arizona Is Stepping Up Where Schools Are Falling Short For Black Children
This Black Mom In Arizona Is Stepping Up Where Schools Are Falling Short For Black Children
“If we stop the school-to-prison pipeline, children will get the education they deserve.”
How BMF customized a microschool model to better meet the needs of Arizona's Black Families
This Black Mom In Arizona Is Stepping Up Where Schools Are Falling Short For Black Children
How BMF customized a microschool model to better meet the needs of Arizona's Black Families
Founded by mothers long concerned about the safety and welfare of their Black children, BMF is an Arizona-based education advocacy group that responded to the COVID-19 crisis by launching two microschools for Black families in Phoenix, Arizona, in January 2021. BMF partnered with Prenda, a well-known microschool provider, but adapted their model to better meet the needs of Black families.
Administration
Ms. Janelle Wood
Founder, CEO
Rev. Janelle Wood is the Founder & CEO of Black Mothers Forum, Inc. She is a wife, mother and published author of "Anatomy of A Black Mother". Rev. Janelle's passion is to see to it that all of our Black sons and daughters are free to live in safe and supportive communities.
Email:
janellewood@blackmothersforums.com
Ms. Tiffany Dudley
Microschool Director
Ms. Tiffany Dudley is the Director of School to Purpose Academies and the Black Mothers Forum Microschools. As a mother and former Microschool coach, she combines firsthand classroom experience with visionary leadership. Passionate about empowering students and families, Ms. Dudley is committed to fostering growth, building strong relationships, and creating purposeful learning environments where every child can thrive.
Email:
tiffanydudley@blackmothersforums.com
Student Development Coaches
Ms. Charity Johnson
Microschool Coach
Charity Johnson is originally from SoCal and has lived in Arizona for 14years. She and her husband have 7 kids. She has been working with children in various capacities for over 15 years and has a passion for educating young minds. She is excited to provide engaging learning opportunities for her students.
Ms. Danita Jackson
Ms. Danita has always had a passion for teaching, starting with summers spent “playing school” in her neighborhood. She earned a bachelor’s in Communication and pursued a rewarding career in radio broadcasting. Today, she guides grades 6–12 at School To Purpose Academies, continues her doctoral studies, supports her nonprofit Arizona Birth Network, and contributes to the Arizona Department of Education. You can also hear her on MEGA 104.3 and 101.1 The Bounce.
Ms. Gabrielle Shorter
Ms. Gabrielle Shorter is a 36-year-old sickle cell warrior and single mother of an 11-year-old. Originally from Cleveland, Mississippi, she moved to Arizona in 2015 on a nursing scholarship from ASU. Gabrielle has an associate degree in science and certifications in caregiving, medical assisting, and phlebotomy. After 10 years in healthcare, she joined School To Purpose Academy as a coach, following her passion for shaping young minds and giving back to the community.
Ms. LaNissa McLeod
Ms. La’Nissa McLeod, originally from New Jersey and now an Arizona native, is a proud mother of two and grandmother of a soon-to-be 3-year-old. With 15 years in youth ministry, 10 years as a certified Arizona Family Daycare Provider, and experience as a Residential Assistant in foster care, she is passionate about empowering students to reach their full potential and flourish in her classroom.
Black Mothers Forums Pillars
Civics
Economics
Economics
Leadership in Action
Advocating for social action and change to promote social justice. Addressing relevant issues that impact the Black community. Holistic re-entry programs to empower formerly incarcerated individuals with access to upward mobility.
Answer the Call to Action
Answering the call to action by getting involved in community organizing. Gaining awareness on issues that matter to you.
Legislation in Action
Economics
Economics
Economics
The Economics Pillar is passionate about empowering families to take control of their financial futures by building confidence in managing money, understanding investments, and making informed financial decisions. We aim to equip women with the tools, knowledge, and mindset needed to create lasting wealth, support their families, and leave a meaningful spiritual and financial legacy for generations to come.”
Prayer, Health, Safety and Wellness
The Prayer, Health, Safety and Wellness Pillar is committed to reach everyone by the power of prayer, unity, and oneness.
They are commitment to the health, wellness, and safety of ourselves and our community by distributing known resources, promoting spiritually, physically, and mentally healthy mindsets, and being a voice for those who do not have one.
Get Connected
To learn more about the pillars and get connected, visit our website.