Anna Julia Cooper Educational Services
Coolnerds. Cool herbs. Cool births.
I taught in public education....
But I knew there was a better way for Black and Brown children to learn. They needed a decolonized version of education that allowed them to fully engage their minds, hands, and hearts. I founded a solution called Anna Julia Cooper Educational Services around my own children and added more genius learners to the tribe! As it grew, so did I! I began learning alongside my students and blossomed just as much as they did! ​Herbalism, gardening, travel, and birth work became part of how we built community and inter-generational bridges that have carried us this far! Hence the Coolnerds, Cool Herbs and Cool Births!
What GOD began in 2015 morphed into a journey with life long learners with a vibe where our tribe thrives! Some graduate college, others navigate life using the lessons learned at AJCES to maintain self-reliance and focus. Others became parents who know the power of homeschooling Coolnerds style and are establishing healthy families as they go! Most have very little debt and even return to inspire current Coolnerds!
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Rachel C. Jones
Founder
Rachel Jones is a Memphis native with a B.A. in African and American Studies and a minor in Philosophy, as well as an M.A.T. in Instruction and Curriculum Design from the University of Memphis. As a lifelong learner and passionate educator, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as an educator, herbalist, doula and midwife assistant. Rachel is also a devoted wife and mother of five.
Her commitment to nurturing healthy individuals from birth through adulthood is rooted in the belief that healed people heal people. Rachel is dedicated to supporting families in establishing strong, thriving Black and Brown communities.
Connect with me! info@thecoolnerds.org
Who is Anna Julia Cooper?
The U.S. Passport has one quote from a Black woman.
“The cause of freedom is not the case of a race or a sect or a party or a class – it is the cause of humankind, the very birthright of humanity." ~Dr. Anna Julia Haywood Cooper
Anna Julia Cooper (1858–1964) was born into slavery but rose to become one of the most powerful Black educational voices of her time. A scholar, teacher, and activist, she believed that educating Black women was essential to uplifting the entire race.
She earned a master’s in mathematics, became a nationally recognized author with her groundbreaking book A Voice from the South, and advocated fiercely for Black excellence~especially through education. At 67, she earned her PhD from the University of Paris, becoming one of the first Black women in America to do so.
She founded organizations, led schools, and opened doors for others, all while mothering the next generation. Her life was a blueprint for resistance, brilliance, and service.
Anna Julia Cooper Educational Services is named so to continue her legacy of liberatory education, high expectations, and deep love for our people.
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