WELLNESS AND WORLDBUILDING SERIES

11:00am- 12:00pm (opt. a)

4:30pm - 5:30pm (opt. b)

Target Audience: African diasporic students in grades 4-9 enrolled in public, private, charter schools, or homeschooled. These students are interested in gaming, specifically Roblox, and have a passion for storytelling.

Wellness and Worldbuilding SeriesUnlock your child’s creativity and confidence through our transformative Wellness and Worldbuilding Series! Designed specifically for African diasporic students in grades 4-9, this three-part course empowers young minds to explore and express what matters most to them through the captivating worlds of storytelling and gaming.

From designing wellness superheroes to scripting immersive narratives and building interactive experiences in Roblox, students will discover the power of their own voices and talents. This series not only nurtures creative skills but also fosters positive identity development, reinforcing the message that their unique perspectives and abilities are invaluable.

By the end of the series, your child will have created a playable game that reflects their personal journey and values—an achievement they can proudly share with others. Enroll now and support your child in building the confidence and skills needed to thrive in today’s digital and creative landscapes.

Course 1: Wellness and Worldbuilding - Nurturing Imagination Through Self-Care

Instructor: Sherinda Bryant

Course Description: Embark on an exhilarating journey into the enchanting world of "Wellness and Worldbuilding." This course explores the transformative power of wellness and its remarkable ability to fuel creativity. Students will learn to create imaginative worlds while integrating self-care practices, laying the groundwork for their storytelling journey. 

Course 2: Wellness and Worldbuilding 2 - Unleashing Imagination Through Storytelling

Instructors: Sherinda Bryant and Godavari Hughes

Course Description:This class builds upon the foundation laid in Part 1 by focusing on scripting, creating detailed background information, and developing character dialogue. Students will deepen their understanding of storytelling by crafting scripts that will be used in the final class to create an interactive experience in Roblox.

Course 3: Wellness and Worldbuilding 3 - Creating Virtual Story Worlds with Roblox

Instructor: Godavari Hughes

Course Description: In this final class, students will bring their stories to life by creating a virtual world in Roblox. Building on the scripts and characters developed in Part 2, they will use Roblox tools to program and design a playable story or interactive experience. The course culminates in a showcase where students can have others play their game and potentially earn Robucks!

The Black Spec Crew: Book Study for 4th-8th Graders

Course Overview:

Welcome to The Black Spec Crew, an engaging and immersive book study experience for 4th-8th graders ready to explore the exciting world of Black speculative fiction! Each session introduces students to a new author and book, offering a deep dive into compelling stories, rich histories, and vibrant characters. Participants will not only read but also explore art, poetry, and engage in thoughtful discussions that make the stories come alive. 

Each enrolled student will receive a special at-home learning kit, including items related to the book, ensuring that their reading journey is interactive and fun. The Black Spec Crew isn’t just a reading group—it’s a year-long adventure into imagination, culture, and creativity. Students can join us for individual sessions or commit to a full year of discovery!

Fall Session (9/22-10/30): Binti by Nnedi Okorafor

Our journey begins with *Binti* by Nnedi Okorafor, where students will travel across the stars with a young Himba girl who becomes the first of her people to attend Oomza University. This session will explore themes of identity, culture, and resilience, helping students connect with Binti’s extraordinary journey and the challenges she faces. Discussion and activities will deepen their understanding and appreciation of this powerful story.

Winter Session (11/11-2/24): Playing The Odds by Milton Davis

In the winter session, we delve into *Playing The Odds* by Milton Davis, a futuristic tale that combines strategy, intellect, and courage. Students will be immersed in a world where survival depends on wit and determination. Through engaging discussions and interactive activities, participants will reflect on the book’s themes and draw parallels to their own lives. The session’s challenges will inspire critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Spring & Summer Session (3/9-7/16): Dr. Marvellus Djinn's Odd Scholars by B. Sharise Moore (Part 1 & 2)

The spring and summer sessions offer an in-depth exploration of *Dr. Marvellus Djinn's Odd Scholars* by B. Sharise Moore. Set against the fascinating backdrop of a magical 1920s-era theme park, this story blends history and fantasy in a unique way. Students will meet a diverse group of scholars—a chemist, a business mind, an inventor, and a strongman—each bringing their unique talents to the table.

In Part 1, we’ll focus on the historical context and the little-known stories of the 1920s, setting the stage for understanding the world of *Odd Scholars*. We’ll explore how these diverse talents can come together to solve problems, encouraging students to discover their own genius. Part 2 will dive into the reading and analysis of the book itself, with activities designed to help students recognize that being a scholar and having unique talents is something they can all achieve. By the end of the session, students will be inspired to think about how they can use their talents to impact the world around them.

Secure your spot today and join us for an unforgettable reading adventure!

The Black Spec Crew is more than a book study—it’s a place where young readers can explore, create, and grow. Join us and discover the magic of Black speculative fiction!

The Black Spec Crew: Book Study for 4th-8th Graders

Course Overview:

Welcome to The Black Spec Crew, an engaging and immersive book study experience for 4th-8th graders ready to explore the exciting world of Black speculative fiction! Each session introduces students to a new author and book, offering a deep dive into compelling stories, rich histories, and vibrant characters. Participants will not only read but also explore art, poetry, and engage in thoughtful discussions that make the stories come alive. 

Each enrolled student will receive a special at-home learning kit, including items related to the book, ensuring that their reading journey is interactive and fun. The Black Spec Crew isn’t just a reading group—it’s a year-long adventure into imagination, culture, and creativity. Students can join us for individual sessions or commit to a full year of discovery!

Winter Session (11/11-2/24): Playing The Odds by Milton Davis

11:00am- 12:00pm PST

In the winter session, we delve into Playing The Odds by Milton Davis, a futuristic tale that combines strategy, intellect, and courage. Students will be immersed in a world where survival depends on wit and determination. Through engaging discussions and interactive activities, participants will reflect on the book’s themes and draw parallels to their own lives. The session’s challenges will inspire critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The Black Spec Crew: Book Study for 4th-9th Graders

Course Overview:

Welcome to The Black Spec Crew, an engaging and immersive book study experience for 4th-8th graders ready to explore the exciting world of Black speculative fiction! Each session introduces students to a new author and book, offering a deep dive into compelling stories, rich histories, and vibrant characters. Participants will not only read but also explore art, poetry, and engage in thoughtful discussions that make the stories come alive. 

Each enrolled student will receive a special at-home learning kit, including items related to the book, ensuring that their reading journey is interactive and fun. The Black Spec Crew isn’t just a reading group—it’s a year-long adventure into imagination, culture, and creativity. Students can join us for individual sessions or commit to a full year of discovery!

Winter Session (12/5/24 - 2/13/25): 

5:15- 6:00pm PST: Big Monty & The Cyborg Sub

6:00- 6:45pm PST: DC Cyborg- Vol 1: Imitation of LIfe

Spring & Summer Session (3/9-7/16): Dr. Marvellus Djinn's Odd Scholars by B. Sharise Moore (Part 1 & 2)

The spring and summer sessions offer an in-depth exploration of Dr. Marvellus Djinn's Odd Scholars by B. Sharise Moore. Set against the fascinating backdrop of a magical 1920s-era theme park, this story blends history and fantasy in a unique way. Students will meet a diverse group of scholars—a chemist, a business mind, an inventor, and a strongman—each bringing their unique talents to the table.

In Part 1, we’ll focus on the historical context and the little-known stories of the 1920s, setting the stage for understanding the world of 'Odd Scholars'. We’ll explore how these diverse talents can come together to solve problems, encouraging students to discover their own genius. Part 2 will dive into the reading and analysis of the book itself, with activities designed to help students recognize that being a scholar and having unique talents is something they can all achieve. By the end of the session, students will be inspired to think about how they can use their talents to impact the world around them.