St. Louis Black Authors of Children's Literature

In metropolitan St. Louis, 75% of Black third graders annually fail the state mandated exam in Reading (MODESE 2019). Less than 3% of the literature American children are exposed to in classrooms are written by Black authors (Cooperative Children's Book Center 2019). Children who are on or above grade level in Reading at the end of third grade do better in school, have a higher propensity to make it to 12th grade graduation, a higher propensity to graduate from a college or university, and a higher propensity to have a thriving adult life (Kids Count Report 2019).

The Believe Projects, St. Louis Black Authors of Children's Literature's core program, inspires kids to become confident and competent readers by the end of third grade and by using culturally responsive books, music, art, and media in spaces where kids are free to relax, explore, and be fiercely and fully themselves.

Believe activities take place in uniquely designed literacy labs that physically includes:
 A minimum of 1,000 books telling stories about Black, Brown, and Indigenous protagonists and covering a wide range of readability levels from prekindergarten through 6th grade.
 Aspirational murals depicting children of color in all of their differing skin tones, dress, hairstyles, and abilities.
 Comfortable and cozy furniture, pillows, rugs, and intentional lighting creating an atmosphere of calm and relaxation.
 Technology loaded with age-appropriate literacy games, e-books, and music; and
 Art supplies used for creative expression, picture writing, critical thinking, and problem solving.

Ultimately, The Believe Project provides children with consistent access to culturally responsive literacy as a definitive strategy for ensuring they become successful readers by the end of third grade.