Pastor Joshua Robertson found himself unexpectedly thrust into a leadership role in the educational freedom movement when his community reached out to him for help.
In the early days of the COVID-19 lockdowns in spring 2020, Robertson’s phone was constantly ringing with concerned parents seeking assistance. The move to remote learning had exposed flaws in the education system, prompting parents to voice their frustrations about the quality of education and safety concerns in schools.
Having personally experienced the shortcomings of the education system, Robertson understood the challenges faced by children, especially those in under-resourced communities. He shared his own struggles of graduating high school without proper reading skills and failing out of college.
His life took a turn when a bishop intervened and helped him learn to read, leading him to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Inspired by this transformative experience, Robertson set out to make a difference in the lives of struggling students.
Recognizing the systemic issues that often leave students behind, Robertson established the Rock City Learning Center to provide support and educational opportunities for underserved children. The center quickly gained traction in the community, with students showing significant academic improvement and flourishing under the personalized guidance they received.
The success of the Rock City Learning Center prompted Robertson to launch Black Pastors United for Education (BPUE) to help replicate the model in other communities. The initiative has since expanded to multiple learning centers, receiving recognition and funding for its impactful work.
Despite facing challenges such as funding cuts to charter schools, Robertson remains steadfast in his advocacy for educational freedom. He continues to fight for initiatives like Lifeline Scholarships to provide opportunities for students in struggling schools.
Robertson’s journey from academic struggles to educational advocacy exemplifies the power of individual intervention in creating positive change. His commitment to transforming the lives of students reflects his belief in the importance of investing in the next generation.
