As summer break draws to a close, it is my pleasure to welcome Ohio’s educators back for the beginning of another academic year. Whether you serve as a teacher, school leader, counselor, support professional, administrator, or community partner, your commitment is essential to the success and well-being of our young scholars.

We recognize the tremendous value you bring to our schools each day. Your service, leadership, compassion, and dedication help students discover their potential and prepare for promising futures. On behalf of the Ohio Alliance of Black School Educators, I wish you a highly successful, productive, and rewarding academic year. Please know that OABSE stands with you—and stands firmly for strong, equitable, and well-supported public education throughout Ohio.

This fall, I look forward to visiting with OABSE local affiliate leaders across the state. These visits will provide opportunities to strengthen organizational structures, enhance programming, share best practices, and build the leadership capacity necessary for long-term growth and sustainability.

I also invite educators and district leaders to join us for the OABSE Southwest Ohio Regional Listening Tour on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The Steam Plant in Dayton, Ohio. The session will be hosted by Dayton Public Schools and Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence and facilitated by Dr. Henry Pettiegrew.

This important gathering will allow educators and leaders to share their perspectives, discuss regional priorities, and help shape OABSE’s future advocacy, programs, and services.

Please save the dates for these upcoming events:

NABSE International Conference: December 2–6, 2026, in Orlando, Florida

HABSE Teacher Recognition Gala: February 20, 2027, in the Cleveland, Ohio

NABSE Midwest Regional Education Conference: April 28–May 1, 2027, in Downtown Indianapolis, Indiana

As we begin this new school year, let us remain united in our commitment to educational excellence, equity, opportunity, and advocacy. Together, we will continue to support educators, strengthen public education, and create brighter futures for every young scholar we serve.

Welcome back, and best wishes for an exceptional academic year!

Forward ever, backward never,

Thandabantu Maceo

Director, NABSE Region and Affiliate Affairs

Executive Director, NABSE Midwest

President, OABSE

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