Ezra Hyland, teaching specialist in the Department of Postsecondary Teaching and Learning, is pleased to work with Best Academy serving as chair of the school’s Board of Directors. Best Academy is a K-8 Minneapolis based school and one of five schools to be awarded the 2013 Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color (COSEBOC) School Award. COSEBOC is a national organization of schools and respected educators, researchers, policy makers, and advocates who focus on promoting and sharing innovative approaches that improve education at schools with significant populations of young men of color. The annual COSEBOC School Awards are awarded to schools with proven success for closing the achievement gap among boys of color. In the award announcement, it was noted that “Best Academy has succeeded in creating an environment that promotes academic success, self-respect, and self-determination for its male students of color”. Using a “gap-closing” educational framework, 82% of Best Academy’s male students scored proficient in reading and 83% scored proficient in math. Best Academy was also recognized because it considers student learning a high priority and a school-wide matter. Everyone takes responsibility and initiative to ensure the well-being of the entire school community. In addition to the award, Best Academy will receive a $10,000 grant. Congratulations to Ezra, the students, and the many stakeholders who have made Best Academy the successful school it is.