Mission
As The V(i)llage™ program we are driven to improve the holistic growth of student learners by engaging in interactive and introspective curriculum exercises that teach them to become productive global citizens while increasing college readiness.
Graduate student + Black Graduate Student President Volunteer Eliot Sykes attending the STEM U event at the University of Utah.
Who We Are.
The V(i)llage™ is a college pathways leadership bridge program created by Think Positionality, LLC. In 2013, at the request of educators in Salt Lake City and Davis school districts, we provided an educational safe space for self-identifying + inclusive-minded + Black students in middle, junior and high school learning environments. The (i) in the word village represents a cultural buffer that surrounds and protects our participants + lets them know that they are valued in our program. Being in The V(i)llage™ means participants can practice authentic leadership, cultural expression and educational exploration while working directly with college ambassadors who are dedicated to their academic success. The name Think Positionality, LLC. represents our challenge to students = think about your position in every life situation.
Undergraduate BSU Volunteer Kamari Smalls attending the STEM U event at the University of Utah.
How We Work.
Think Positionality, LLC. organizational objectives are achieved by assessing the needs of K-12 school districts and college student leaders then responding with uniquely tailored educative modules teach to the strengths of participants based on their educational trajectories. We identify student problems, then offer holistic solutions. Our Goals are:
1) Teach youth how to become leaders;
2) Help middle, junior, high school and college students develop proactive, non-cognitive processes that increase positive academic outcomes;
3) Provide social justice activist services to diverse populations who want to learn how to promote and encourage equality;
4) Empower parents to work in concert with K-12 entities to serve the needs of their children through examining “cultural differences” at individual, communal and systemic levels;
5) Serve as a collegiate pathway for aspiring youth seeking degree attainment;
Specifically, The V(i)llage™ participants learn about the following six target areas:
Culture: Students honor their ancestral histories and respect racial differences.
Scholarship: Students learn how to achieve high academic standards in class while preparing for college.
Advocacy: Students interrupt bullying, support peers and invest in justice.
Involvement: Students value participating in their learning environments then choose to get active.
Leadership: Students actively engage in leadership roles in schools organizations.
Community: Students create and conduct school-based service projects.