Students'

This participatory-action research study explored the perspectives of students, teachers, and parent groups of an African-centered education program.

The perspectives provided by the participants in this African-centered program explained how change from the mainstream educational environment impacts academic success for African American students.

The research revealed 5 significant findings for African-centered programs: (a) curriculum, (b) teacher expectation, (c) family environment, (d) culture, and (e) social conscience.

These findings emphasized the need for the use of culture and relevant skills in promoting African American students' success.

Two major conclusions were drawn from the findings in the study: (a) The 5 aspects of African-centered programs heavily influenced the educational environment and (b) the definition of education must be extended to promote life skills for African American students.

Two theories guided the research, critical race theory (CRT) in education and culturally relevant education.

CRT in education demonstrated the need for African-centered education programs.

Culturally relevant education revealed the African-centered education program's different approaches to teaching.