Mission
The Black Parents' Student Support Group (BPSSG) of the Ann Arbor Public Schools will serve as a collaborative and supportive vehicle for African-American students and their parents. The organization will foster strong, meaningful alliances with schools to encourage academic excellence, leadership skills, cultural awareness, pride and respect, and problem solving. The main priority is the education of all students with special emphasis on the education of African-American students so that they will attain their full educational potential.
Purpose
The main purpose of the BPSSG is to advocate, promote and support the highest quality academic, social, and cultural experiences for Black children attending school in the Ann Arbor Public Schools. We recognize the fact that the needs and interests of Black students and their families sometimes vary from those of the non-Black population. Even similar needs often remain unfulfilled for Black students. The BPSSG will work with trustees, teachers, administrators, other school personnel, families, and the community to get those needs met and interests fulfilled. Finally, the BPSSG will seek out, recognize, and celebrate the many achievements of Black students in the Ann Arbor Public School district.
History
The Black Parents and Students Support Group (BPSSG) was founded some time during the sixties by the NAACP and a group of concerned parents, educators, and community members to address the educational disparities facing Black students in the Ann Arbor Public School system. The establishment of the Black Parents and Students Support Groups are needed and encouraged at all school levels - elementary and secondary. African-American parents have always cared about the well being and education of their children and that will continue. This group has come about partly as a result of concerns expressed by parents and students and because of the benefits that can develop from a supportive and collaborative group for the entire school as well as the district.