EdArchy

Black Educators Matter: Project 500 Podcast

“I feel like I found my revolution in teaching.”

Rodney Powell

School Principal, Founder EdArchy

“I want to see free kids have free thoughts.”

"In education, we have the power to construct freedom," shares Mr. Rodney Powell, a school principal and founder of EdArchy, as he reflects on his journey and vision for education. His path into education was not conventional, but driven by a deep-rooted desire to be a revolutionary and create meaningful change. Despite not attending an HBCU himself, he recognizes the value and impact they have, particularly in fostering a strong sense of pride and community.

“My journey was meant to be seamlessly integrated with the community.”

Over the last two decades, Mr. Powell has been at the forefront of innovative education, founding schools with African-centered curricula and empowering students to be agents of change. His work extends beyond the classroom, advocating for a paradigm shift in education that prioritizes Black joy, ownership, and freedom. Through EdArchy, he aims to incubate and amplify the ideas of young people, emphasizing the importance of creating communities and spaces where all voices are heard and valued. Mr. Powell's story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of education when grounded in community, empowerment, and liberation… a “villatucian”.