Today we’d like to introduce you to Kendall Ware
Kendall, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Dr. Kendall Ware’s journey in education and leadership is rooted in a deep passion for empowering individuals through learning and mentorship. It all began with a strong academic foundation. Dr. Ware earned a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics, which laid the groundwork for his analytical and problem-solving skills. His dedication to education continued with a master’s in teaching, equipping him with the tools to engage and inspire students. Furthering his expertise, he pursued a master’s in Christian ministry, which infused his work with a strong ethical and community-centered approach. Ultimately, he achieved a doctorate in higher education leadership, solidifying his role as a thought leader in the educational sphere.
Dr. Ware’s professional journey spans over a decade, beginning in 2011, where he has worn many hats—educator, program designer, and advocate. He has taught at various levels, from middle and high school to college, always with a focus on creating impactful and meaningful learning experiences. His work in adult education, particularly at an adult high school, is a testament to his commitment to ensuring that individuals, regardless of age, have the opportunity to achieve their educational goals.
One of Dr. Ware’s notable contributions to education is his leadership role as Director of Programming for Dream Builders 4 Equity. Here, he not only directs programming but also authored an innovative Algebra 1 textbook that integrates Black History into mathematical concepts, making education more relevant and empowering for students of color. Dr. Kendall Ware’s creation of the Algebra 1 textbook that integrates Black History is a powerful example of his commitment to making education not just accessible, but also culturally relevant and empowering for all students, particularly those from marginalized communities. The idea for this innovative textbook was born out of his experiences as an educator and his deep understanding of the systemic inequities that often permeate traditional educational materials.
Throughout his teaching career, Dr. Ware recognized a significant gap in how educational content was being delivered to students of color, especially in subjects like mathematics. He saw that while math was being taught effectively in terms of concepts and problem-solving, it often lacked cultural relevance. Students of color were rarely, if ever, able to see themselves or their heritage reflected in the curriculum, which made the subject matter feel distant and disconnected from their lived experiences.
Driven by his passion for both education and social justice, Dr. Ware set out to create a resource that would bridge this gap. He envisioned a textbook that not only taught the fundamentals of Algebra 1 but also celebrated the rich history and contributions of Black people, particularly in the fields of mathematics, science, and engineering. By weaving Black History into mathematical concepts, Dr. Ware aimed to create a learning experience that was both academically rigorous and personally meaningful for students.
The process of creating this textbook was meticulous and deeply intentional. Dr. Ware conducted extensive research, not only on mathematical theories and problems but also on historical figures and events that could be seamlessly integrated into the lessons. He carefully selected examples, stories, and historical contexts that would resonate with students and make the math concepts more relatable. For instance, he might introduce a lesson on quadratic equations by first discussing the work of African-American mathematicians like Dr. Elbert Frank Cox, the first Black person in the world to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics, and how their contributions paved the way for future generations.
The textbook also incorporates culturally responsive teaching strategies, which Dr. Ware has championed throughout his career. These strategies emphasize the importance of acknowledging and valuing students’ cultural backgrounds in the learning process. By doing so, the textbook helps students develop a deeper connection to the material, fostering both academic success and a stronger sense of identity.
The impact of this textbook has been profound. Students who might have previously struggled to see the relevance of mathematics in their lives are now able to connect with the subject in a new and empowering way. Teachers have reported that the integration of Black History into the Algebra curriculum has not only increased student engagement but also sparked meaningful conversations about race, history, and identity in the classroom.
In creating this textbook, Dr. Ware has not only provided a valuable educational resource but also contributed to a broader movement towards equity and inclusion in education. His work serves as a model for how educators can reimagine traditional curricula to better serve and inspire all students, particularly those who have been historically underrepresented or marginalized in academic settings.
Dr. Ware’s influence extends beyond the classroom. He has designed curricula that have been implemented at prestigious institutions such as Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), demonstrating his ability to create programs that resonate with diverse audiences.
A significant milestone in Dr. Ware’s career is the founding of his organization, Solving For Freedom LLC. This venture reflects his entrepreneurial spirit and his unwavering commitment to social justice and educational equity. Solving For Freedom LLC is dedicated to creating solutions that address systemic challenges in education and beyond, with a focus on empowering marginalized communities.
Dr. Ware is also an active member of the St. Louis community. He sits on the ITEF board, where he advocates for educators, further showcasing his dedication to the profession. His involvement in initiatives like the “Pathways to Health Professions” summer program, which aims to increase African-American representation in health professions, highlights his commitment to creating opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Today, Dr. Ware continues to make a significant impact in the field of education and beyond. Whether through his work with Dream Builders 4 Equity, his entrepreneurial efforts with Solving For Freedom LLC, or his advocacy and mentorship, Dr. Ware is dedicated to creating a future where education is accessible, equitable, and empowering for all.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Dr. Kendall Ware’s commitment to integrating Black History into mathematics has not always been met with unanimous support. One significant struggle occurred when he was negotiating a professional development contract with an organization that sought his expertise in mathematics education. The organization recognized Dr. Ware’s talent and experience in teaching math but was hesitant about his approach to embedding Black History into the curriculum.
The organization wanted him to focus solely on the mathematical content, sidelining the culturally responsive elements that Dr. Ware believed were essential to truly engaging students and making the subject matter relevant to their lives. They were concerned that the inclusion of Black History might be seen as too political or could detract from the rigor of the math instruction.
For Dr. Ware, this was a deeply frustrating situation. He had long understood that mathematics and history are not separate spheres but are interconnected in ways that can enrich students’ understanding and appreciation of both subjects. His work was driven by the belief that students of color, in particular, needed to see themselves reflected in the curriculum to fully engage with and excel in subjects like math.
Despite the pushback, Dr. Ware remained steadfast in his convictions. He knew that stripping away the historical context from the mathematics curriculum would undermine his broader educational goals of fostering equity and inclusion. He also understood the importance of teaching students that Black contributions to mathematics and other STEM fields are both significant and worthy of recognition. This holistic approach, he believed, was not just about teaching math but about empowering students and affirming their identities.
Negotiations with the organization were challenging. Dr. Ware had to articulate the value of a curriculum that integrated Black History, not only from an educational standpoint but also in terms of its impact on student engagement and achievement. He emphasized that this approach would not dilute the rigor of the math content but would instead enhance students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills by connecting abstract concepts to real-world historical examples.
In the end, although the organization was initially reluctant, Dr. Ware’s persistence paid off. He was able to secure a contract that allowed him to maintain his integrated approach, though it required compromises. The experience reinforced for Dr. Ware the importance of advocating for culturally responsive teaching, even in the face of resistance. It also deepened his resolve to continue developing resources and programs that reflect the full richness of students’ cultural backgrounds, ensuring that all students can see themselves as capable and valued participants in the academic community.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Dr. Kendall Ware’s Algebra 1 textbook is not just a groundbreaking educational resource; it is also a testament to his artistic vision and creativity. This blend of artistry with academics is one of the key elements that sets Dr. Ware apart from other educators and curriculum developers.
The textbook is a unique fusion of mathematical rigor and cultural storytelling, brought to life through Dr. Ware’s artistic approach to content creation. He didn’t just aim to convey mathematical concepts; he sought to create an immersive experience for students, one that resonates on both intellectual and emotional levels. His artistic side shines through in the way he carefully curated the visual design, narrative elements, and overall structure of the textbook.
Dr. Ware approached the creation of this textbook much like an artist would approach a canvas. He paid meticulous attention to the design, ensuring that each page was not only informative but also visually engaging. The layout of the textbook is crafted to guide students through complex ideas with clarity and ease, using visuals, diagrams, and color schemes that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally effective. This artistic touch helps to break down barriers that students might face when engaging with challenging material, making it more approachable and relatable.
Moreover, Dr. Ware’s storytelling ability is evident in how he weaves Black History into the lessons. He doesn’t merely present historical facts; he tells stories—stories of Black mathematicians, scientists, and engineers who overcame obstacles to make significant contributions to their fields. These narratives are presented in a way that captures the imagination of students, making them feel connected to the history and culture that is interwoven with the mathematics they are learning.
This combination of art and education is rare, and it’s what makes Dr. Ware’s work stand out. While many educators focus solely on the academic content, Dr. Ware understands the power of aesthetics and storytelling in education. He recognizes that learning is not just a cognitive process but also an emotional and cultural one. By infusing his textbook with artistic elements, he creates a richer, more engaging learning experience that appeals to a wide range of students.
This artistic approach also reflects Dr. Ware’s broader educational philosophy. He believes that education should be a holistic experience, one that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. His textbook is a reflection of this belief, as it goes beyond the mere transmission of knowledge to inspire, empower, and uplift students. In doing so, Dr. Ware sets a new standard for what educational resources can be, demonstrating that mathematics can be as much about creativity and culture as it is about numbers and equations.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Integrity is a cornerstone of Dr. Kendall Ware’s life, deeply influencing both his family and career. It’s the guiding principle that shapes his decisions, actions, and interactions with others, and it’s what he holds most dear.
From a family perspective, integrity is the foundation of trust and respect. For Dr. Ware, being a husband and a father means setting an example of honesty, responsibility, and ethical behavior. He believes that integrity starts at home, where the values of truthfulness, consistency, and fairness are instilled in the next generation. By living with integrity, Dr. Ware demonstrates to his son, Zayden, and daughters; Zoelle and Zhavia, the importance of standing by one’s word and doing what is right, even when it’s difficult. This commitment to integrity strengthens the bonds within his family, creating an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
In his career, integrity is equally crucial. As an educator, program director, and entrepreneur, Dr. Ware understands that his reputation is built on the trust others place in him. Integrity in his work means being transparent, upholding his commitments, and ensuring that his actions align with his values. Whether he is developing a curriculum, negotiating contracts, or mentoring students, Dr. Ware’s decisions are guided by a strong moral compass. He knows that the impact he makes in education is not just measured by the knowledge he imparts but also by the ethical standards he upholds.
Integrity also plays a key role in Dr. Ware’s approach to leadership. He leads by example, showing that ethical behavior is non-negotiable, even in challenging situations. This was evident in his decision to stand firm on integrating Black History into his Algebra 1 textbook, despite facing resistance. For Dr. Ware, compromising his values would mean compromising the quality and purpose of his work. His integrity is what allows him to advocate for what he believes is right, ensuring that his contributions to education are both meaningful and just.
In both family and career, integrity is what grounds Dr. Ware. It is the thread that connects his personal and professional life, allowing him to live authentically and with purpose. For Dr. Ware, integrity isn’t just about doing the right thing; it’s about being the right kind of person—someone who others can rely on, trust, and respect. This unwavering commitment to integrity is what sets him apart and drives him to make a lasting, positive impact in every aspect of his life.
Pricing:
- Website: https://www.solvingforfreedom.org/
- Published work: https://link.springer.com/epdf/10.1007/s43545-021-00099-5?sharing_token=GDYmouIeZ3Egcl-8HKP9v_e4RwlQNchNByi7wbcMAY6L008DBwbAK6LGbBc6sVFIJecIyoJAX66GzHTpZ-UGXssC7rcRKP538NLRLrVGJ6NbugkccJ2yMuBQNPT0iml0kG0sQv2kQ7Qn25PQOj276IybH3cp64mcjGLbsheBCuc%3D
- Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Solving-For-Freedom-An-Algebra-I-Textbook-That-Illuminates-Black-History-Through-Math-Concepts/5406162852
- Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGGL81C5?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.solvingforfreedom.org/
