2025 BFHES Virtual Teach-In Sessions
Keynote Conversation with Cheryl Carter
Homeschooling with Purpose and Vision
Join us for an inspiring keynote at the 5th Annual BFHES Virtual Teach-In, where seasoned educator, author, and homeschooling veteran Cheryl Carter will share her journey of homeschooling over three decades. As a mother of five, Cheryl has guided her children through an academically rigorous and spiritually enriching homeschooling experience, raising children who have gone on to achieve remarkable success, including earning doctorates, becoming professors, and dedicating their lives to missionary work. In conversation with Dr. Khadijah Ali-Coleman, Cheryl will discuss the evolution of homeschooling, the challenges and triumphs she has encountered along the way, and the essential strategies that have helped her children excel. She will share her insights into homeschooling before, during, and after the COVID-19 quarantine and offer advice for families new to homeschooling.
Cheryl will also highlight how homeschooling offers Black families the opportunity to create customized learning environments that empower children to break free from traditional educational limitations. With her deep commitment to enabling Black families to thrive through homeschooling, Cheryl will provide practical advice and encouragement for those looking to build successful homeschooling journeys for their own children.
This keynote is a must-attend for current and aspiring homeschoolers seeking to deepen their understanding of the power of homeschooling and the impact it can have on their family’s educational and personal growth.
Panels
Homeschooling Black Children on a College Pathway: A Panel Discussion with Contributors Jason Esters, Natalie Mack, and Chanita Williams
At the 5th Annual Virtual Teach-In presented by Black Family Homeschool Educators and Scholars, LLC (BFHES), join contributors to the highly anticipated book Homeschooling Black Children on a College Pathway for an exclusive discussion. Guided by editor Khadijah Ali-Coleman, panelists Jason Esters, Natalie Mack, and Chanita Williams will delve into their chapters, offering a behind-the-scenes look at their insights and strategies for preparing Black homeschoolers for college success.
From navigating the academic and social expectations of higher education to tailoring a homeschool curriculum that supports long-term goals, this session provides practical advice and inspiration for families focused on educational excellence. Whether you're currently homeschooling or exploring the college pathway for your children, this panel offers valuable perspectives on equipping Black students for academic achievement and life beyond homeschooling.
Trust the Process: Building Confidence in Your Homeschooling Journey with Jae Carter, Ambriel Lasley, and Danielle Davis
Embarking on the homeschooling journey can feel daunting, but with patience, perseverance, and trust in your abilities, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. In this empowering panel discussion, Jae Carter, Ambriel Lasley, and Danielle Davis come together to share their personal stories, lessons learned, and insights on how to build confidence as a homeschooling parent.
The panelists will explore common fears and challenges, offering practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt, finding your unique teaching style, and trusting the natural progression of your child’s learning. They’ll also share tips for staying resilient and joyful, even when things don’t go as planned.
Whether you’re new to homeschooling or need reassurance on your journey, this session will provide the encouragement, community, and tools you need to embrace the process with confidence and grace.
What Homeschooling Kids Would Like You to Know: A Panel Discussion with Santana Brightly, Jasmine Price, and Nathaniel Mack
Ever wonder what homeschooling is really like from a student’s perspective? In this candid and insightful panel discussion, Santana Brightly, Jasmine Price, and Nathaniel Mack—teens currently navigating their homeschool journeys—share their thoughts, experiences, and what they wish parents and educators understood about homeschooling.
From the unique opportunities homeschooling provides to the challenges they face, these students will offer valuable insights into how homeschooling impacts their education, social lives, and personal growth. They’ll also share what helps them thrive, what motivates them, and how parents can best support their learning journeys.
This session is a must-attend for parents, educators, and anyone curious about the realities of homeschooling from the voices that matter most—the students themselves.
Joyful Teaching of Black History & Culture: A Panel Discussion with Sherri Mehta and Amber O’Neal
Teaching Black history and culture can be a source of inspiration, pride, and empowerment for both educators and students. In this dynamic panel discussion, Sherri Mehta and Amber O’Neal share their passion and expertise in making Black history an engaging, joyful, and transformative part of education.
Through stories, strategies, and resources, the panelists will explore how to move beyond a narrow focus on trauma to celebrate the resilience, achievements, and contributions of Black people across history and culture. They’ll discuss methods for fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and a love of learning while teaching this essential subject.
Whether you’re a homeschooler, educator, or lifelong learner, this session will leave you equipped with tools and inspiration to approach Black history and culture with creativity, positivity, and purpose.
Teaching Practical Skills Through Nature: A Panel Discussion with Kendra Price, Alycia Wright, and Journei Bimwala
Nature is not just a classroom—it’s a place for discovery, growth, and the development of essential life skills. In this engaging panel discussion, Kendra Price, Alycia Wright, and Journei Bimwala share their experiences and expertise in using the natural world to teach practical skills that inspire curiosity, resilience, and self-reliance.
From outdoor exploration and gardening to survival skills and environmental stewardship, this session will highlight creative ways to integrate nature-based learning into your homeschool curriculum. Each panelist brings a unique perspective, offering actionable strategies and insights for fostering a deeper connection between children and the world around them. Whether you’re looking to incorporate nature into your teaching or seeking fresh ideas to enrich your homeschool experience, this discussion will leave you inspired to harness the power of the outdoors to teach practical and transformative skills.
Workshops
(Starting &) Building Your Business as a Homeschooling Parent with Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman
Starting and running a business while homeschooling can be a rewarding way to create financial independence, all while fostering an entrepreneurial mindset in your children. In this hands-on workshop, Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman, a serial entrepreneur and homeschooling parent, will share her expertise on how to build and grow a business while balancing family responsibilities.
Dr. Ali-Coleman will walk you through the basics of distinguishing between legitimate business models and pyramid schemes, the benefits of starting a sole proprietorship or LLC, and how to integrate your children into your business operations in ways that teach them valuable skills. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale your current business, this session will provide practical tips, business ideas, and strategies to make your entrepreneurial journey a success while homeschooling.
Please note that this workshop is for informational purposes only. Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman is not a tax or legal professional, and participants are encouraged to consult with qualified experts for specific advice related to taxes, business structures, or legal matters.
Histematics: A Way to Make Math More Relevant with Akil Parker
Mathematics is often viewed as a daunting subject, but what if it could be transformed into a tool for liberation and cultural connection? In this empowering workshop, Akil Parker, founder and CEO of All This Math, LLC, introduces Histematics—a revolutionary approach to making math more engaging and relevant by integrating it with Black history and culture.
Drawing from his extensive experience as a math professor, educator, and advocate, Akil will share strategies for teaching math in ways that resonate with students’ cultural identities and lived experiences. Participants will explore practical techniques to connect math concepts to historical narratives, everyday activities, and real-world applications, fostering both academic success and a sense of pride in cultural heritage. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or homeschooler, this workshop will equip you with tools to transform math education into a meaningful and empowering experience for Black students. Join Akil Parker and discover how to make math a powerful force for connection, confidence, and change.
Drawing from his extensive experience as a math professor, educator, and advocate, Akil will share strategies for teaching math in ways that resonate with students’ cultural identities and lived experiences. Participants will explore practical techniques to connect math concepts to historical narratives, everyday activities, and real-world applications, fostering both academic success and a sense of pride in cultural heritage. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or homeschooler, this workshop will equip you with tools to transform math education into a meaningful and empowering experience for Black students. Join Akil Parker and discover how to make math a powerful force for connection, confidence, and change.
Coffee Talks
Subtly but Surely: The Gendering of Black Homeschooling Motivations with Matthew Rankin, PhD
Homeschooling is a deeply personal choice, but it is also shaped by broader societal forces such as race, class, and gender. In this thought-provoking coffee talk, Dr. Matthew Rankin delves into the nuanced ways gender influences the motivations and practices of Black homeschooling families. Drawing from his dissertation research, For Our Children: How Black Parents Approach Homeschooling, Dr. Rankin explores how relational dynamics—both within families and broader societal contexts—shape educational decision-making and homeschooling approaches.
With a focus on social inequality and social psychology, Dr. Rankin will offer insights into how gender roles intersect with race and class in the educational strategies of Black parents. This session will encourage reflection and dialogue, shedding light on the often-overlooked dynamics that influence Black homeschooling practices.
Whether you’re a homeschooler, educator, or researcher, this session will provide valuable perspectives on the cultural and social dimensions of Black homeschooling.
Play-based Activities for Elementary-aged Children with Christal Banks
Play is more than just fun—it’s an essential part of a child’s development, fostering creativity, problem-solving, social skills, and emotional growth. In this engaging coffee talk, Christal Banks, an expert in early childhood education, will share practical play-based activities that can enrich the learning experiences of elementary-aged children.
Christal will discuss the benefits of play in the academic and personal development of young learners, offering simple, yet impactful activities that can be easily integrated into your homeschool routine. From sensory play and hands-on projects to games that promote critical thinking and collaboration, this session will provide you with fresh, creative ways to keep your children engaged while learning through play.
Whether you’re a homeschooling parent or educator, this talk will leave you with valuable strategies to make learning fun, interactive, and meaningful for elementary-aged children.
Christal will discuss the benefits of play in the academic and personal development of young learners, offering simple, yet impactful activities that can be easily integrated into your homeschool routine. From sensory play and hands-on projects to games that promote critical thinking and collaboration, this session will provide you with fresh, creative ways to keep your children engaged while learning through play.
Whether you’re a homeschooling parent or educator, this talk will leave you with valuable strategies to make learning fun, interactive, and meaningful for elementary-aged children.
Homeschooling as a Single Parent with Jade Weatherington
Balancing homeschooling and single parenthood can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to create a customized education that empowers your child while pursuing your personal and professional goals. In this inspiring and practical talk, Jade Weatherington, M.Ed., CEO and Founder of Teacher Jade's Writing Academy, shares her journey of building a thriving business while homeschooling as a single parent.
With 15 years of online teaching experience, Jade transformed her passion for education into a successful entrepreneurial venture, all while navigating the challenges of homeschooling. In this session, she’ll provide actionable strategies for single parents to effectively manage homeschooling, build income streams, and create a sustainable lifestyle that supports both their family and personal ambitions. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or looking to refine your approach, Jade’s expertise will leave you equipped and motivated to embrace this rewarding journey.
The Power of Representation: Using African-American Art to Teach History and Culture with Genice Lee
Art is a powerful tool for storytelling, connection, and preserving history. In this enlightening session, Genice Lee, a seasoned art and antiques appraiser with over 20 years of experience, explores how African-American art can be used to teach history, culture, and identity in meaningful and impactful ways.
Drawing from her background in education and her personal journey as a homeschooling parent, Genice will share strategies for incorporating art into your curriculum to deepen understanding and appreciation of African-American heritage. Through her expertise, she will guide you on how to engage with cultural objects, connect with history, and empower students to see themselves reflected in the stories of the past.
Whether you’re an educator, homeschooler, or simply passionate about representation and legacy, this session will provide you with practical tools and fresh perspectives on teaching history through the lens of African-American art.
Drawing from her background in education and her personal journey as a homeschooling parent, Genice will share strategies for incorporating art into your curriculum to deepen understanding and appreciation of African-American heritage. Through her expertise, she will guide you on how to engage with cultural objects, connect with history, and empower students to see themselves reflected in the stories of the past.
Whether you’re an educator, homeschooler, or simply passionate about representation and legacy, this session will provide you with practical tools and fresh perspectives on teaching history through the lens of African-American art.
AI as Homeschool Helper with Dr. Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman
AI tools like ChatGPT can save significant time on mundane tasks such as planning meals, organizing, and handling administrative tasks. On average, individuals can save 5-10 hours per week by using AI tools for mundane or repetitive tasks, depending on their workload. The efficiency boost comes from AI's ability to quickly analyze, generate, and streamline processes that would otherwise require manual effort. Dr. Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman, founding director of Black Family Homeschool Educators and Scholars, LLC, shares four ways that AI has helped her lessen her workload.
Being Our Best Self When Homeschooling with Nichelle Nelson
Homeschooling is not just about educating children—it’s also about growing as individuals, nurturing our passions, and embracing the journey of lifelong learning. In this enriching session, veteran homeschool mom Nichelle Nelson shares insights from her 25 years of homeschooling experience and her commitment to fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and personal growth.
With a distinguished academic background and a global perspective shaped by 12 years of living overseas, Nichelle offers practical wisdom and encouragement to help homeschool parents navigate challenges while becoming their best selves. Drawing from her journey of successfully homeschooling three children through to Baylor University and beyond, she will inspire you to approach homeschooling with purpose, resilience, and a commitment to excellence.
Join this engaging "Coffee Talk" for an open conversation filled with relatable stories, actionable tips, and motivation to thrive as both an educator and an individual while homeschooling.
With a distinguished academic background and a global perspective shaped by 12 years of living overseas, Nichelle offers practical wisdom and encouragement to help homeschool parents navigate challenges while becoming their best selves. Drawing from her journey of successfully homeschooling three children through to Baylor University and beyond, she will inspire you to approach homeschooling with purpose, resilience, and a commitment to excellence.
Join this engaging "Coffee Talk" for an open conversation filled with relatable stories, actionable tips, and motivation to thrive as both an educator and an individual while homeschooling.