As Tulsa welcomes the start of another school year, I’m reminded that seasons of transition are also seasons of opportunity. They invite us to pause, reflect, and realign, not just around schedules and systems, but around values.
For me, and for all of us at MBK Tulsa, that value is care.
Not only care in what we do, but in how we do it.
As more partners, initiatives, and citywide efforts come together to support children and youth, I’m filled with a deep sense of hope. There is powerful momentum behind the work in Tulsa right now. That momentum is rooted in years of service, relationships, and community-designed strategies. We are building something real and it’s exciting to see.
But even in growth, we have a responsibility to remain grounded. At MBK Tulsa, our charge is clear: ensure that boys and young men of color are not only included in the vision for our city, but centered in it. That has been our guiding principle. And as classrooms fill and programs ramp up again this fall, it remains just as important as ever.
How Do We Stay Grounded?
By listening closely. The youth and families we serve continue to show us where the needs are greatest. When young men share their stories, ask their questions, or lead a project, they’re offering not just insight but direction. This past year, our MBK Youth All-Stars led projects that addressed literacy gaps, youth violence, and mental health, because they are closest to the challenges and the solutions.
By honoring what works. When we focus with intention, we see results. This past year, over 150 students connected to MBK Sports experienced attendance rates 18% higher than their peers and achieved stronger academic outcomes. In Cohort 3 of MBK Youth All-Stars, 90% of students are on track to graduate on time, and 82% created postsecondary plans. These are not just numbers. They are proof of what happens when boys of color are surrounded by high expectations and consistent support.
By staying connected. Whether through milestone tables, school district collaboration, or neighborhood partnerships, the work moves forward through relationships. As we enter a new academic year, it’s these relationships between educators, families, mentors, and advocates that will carry our boys through moments of challenge and growth.
By moving forward with intention. Scaling our work citywide creates new opportunities, but also calls us to stay rooted. That means asking not only “how many” are being served, but “who” and “how well.” It means centering equity not as a buzzword, but as a compass, especially for the boys and young men of color who too often remain at the margins of systems built without them in mind.
This school year brings fresh energy, new leadership, and meaningful opportunity. My hope is that it also brings a deepening of the care, coordination, and focus that has carried this work forward so far.
Tulsa’s boys and young men of color are already showing us what’s possible when they are supported and believed in. As the year unfolds, let’s continue creating the kind of environments in classrooms, neighborhoods, and systems where they can thrive, lead, and build the futures they deserve.
Tulsa has what it takes to lead boldly. Learn more about MBK Tulsa at mbktulsa.org