Christopher M Spence, Ph.D.

Publications, Productions and Programs

About

Mission

My mission is to bring a vision of dynamic, inspirational and collaborative leadership by building and maintaining strong relationships and by encouraging commitment and loyalty through trust, growth through participation and responsibility through accountability.

Dr. Christopher M. Spence

Christopher M. Spence is an accomplished educator and dedicated community advocate with a proven record of leadership in education. Known for his visionary mindset and entrepreneurial spirit, he has successfully led complex organizations and cultivated strong relationships within communities.

He is an inspirational speaker, author, and former CFL athlete, committed to promoting education, innovation, and public outreach. His achievements include authoring several influential works, such as Teammates, True Blue, and Silence the Violence, and receiving numerous awards, including:

Born in England, raised in Windsor, Ontario, and academically accomplished with a doctoral degree from SUSL (2024), Dr. Spence continues to be a passionate force for change in education and leadership.

To Be Seen and Heard

Strategies that Support the Academic Success of African American Males in Northern Chicago High Schools

Date: April 2024

Abstract:

The underachievement of African Americans, particularly African-American males, is one of the most troubling issues in education (Cokley et al., 2012; Schott Foundation, 2018). A significant population of African-American males has struggled to find their place in society (Wilson, 2014). Recent data shows 78% of African American students are completing high school in Chicago, Illinois (Casey Foundation, 2021). While the number of African American students who have graduated has risen in the last five years, African American males have not kept pace with African American female students and peers from different racial groups (Pearman et al., 2019). This study examined strategies that support the achievement of African American males in Northern Chicago high schools. The researcher gathered data through interviews with recent African American male graduates or seniors over the age of 18 who could explain personal experiences and strategies that impacted their academic success. Data were analyzed using open coding. Patterns and themes such as racial identity and support systems were identified as part of the data analysis process. Critical race theory (CRT) is the guiding theoretical framework used in examining the conceptualization of race and racism’s role in educational systems, practices, and outcomes. The results from this study can provide further and deeper understanding on strategies that may improve the educational attainment of African American males in northern Chicago high schools. Based on the findings, strategies identified in the study, used by African American males, other students of different ethnic groups, educational practitioners, researchers, parents, policymakers, and community leaders may bring positive social change to continue increasing graduation rates in northern Chicago schools.

Book: The MixTape

Release Date: October 2, 2023

Authors: Christopher Michael Spence, Jacob, Briana

The Cougars have won the City Championship what’s next for four high school football friends Carlos, Dre, Kobe, and Noah? They are united by the MixTape and are on the cusp of growing up each in their own way struggling to connect to the world. On the way to a party they are pulled over by the police.

Jail or Yale: Young Black and Out of Options?

Release Date: September 2019

This project focuses on examining the problem of structural racism in the educational system and its ramifications on black males as they progress through life.
Significant data reveals that Black students are being pushed into prison through our school systems, known as the School-to-Prison Pipeline:
68% of all males in state and federal prison do not have a high school diploma. People of color make up 37% of the U.S. population but 67% of the prison population
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