Atrayus O. Goode for Durham Public Schools Board of Education
I’m goode for young people,
I’m goode for the community, and my name is Atrayus Goode.
My Story
I am a testament to the power of relationships. Growing up, I had an abundance of positive role models as mentors who helped guide me along my journey, helping me navigate several complex life challenges that had the potential to derail my life.
My mother struggled with drug misuse throughout my childhood, creating a constant onslaught of obstacles for me to traverse daily. While she made a full recovery around the time I began middle school, I struggled psychologically and emotionally because of my past. Meeting my first mentor through the Greater Charlotte Chapter of the 100 Black Men of America afforded me the social and emotional support I needed to chart a different course for my life. With my eventual enrollment at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the 100 gave me a generous scholarship that defrayed most of my costs, helping me become the first in my family to obtain a four-year degree. That experience launched me into a lifelong journey to ensure that all young people have the resources to live the best lives possible.
But my story is not unique.
Many of us have dealt with trying circumstances, such as unstable households, lack of access to high-quality education, negative interactions with the criminal justice system, or inadequate pathways to sustainable employment. But when given the opportunity to create a positive future, we can rise to the occasion to achieve for ourselves, our families, and our communities.
Right now, we are at an inflection point. There is growing momentum in Durham to take the responsibility to provide pathways for all people to be the architects of their dreams seriously. But to do that, there must be adequate investments at the local and state level that allow for a high-quality public education system. This includes, but is not limited to:
Holding close to two decades of youth development and mentoring experience at the local, state, and national levels, along with an organization development background in the applied behavioral sciences, I understand how to provide pathways for all people to be the architects of their dreams. I am committed to serving and advocating for an equitable and positive future designed to promote a thriving Durham Public Schools.
I invite you to join me on this important journey.
Media
Vote The Goode Way featuring Atrayus Goode – The G $h!+ Podcast
Atrayus O. Goode on Choice FM 92.1 – The Leandro Case and Durham Public Schools
Authenticity in the Work with Atrayus Goode
“Living United for Racial Equity and Social Justice” feat. Atrayus O. Goode and Special Guests
Atrayus O Goode delivers TED Talk – Three Dirty Words
Atrayus O. Goode on Education Matters – Black Teachers Matter
