Michael Payne
Michael Payne is the Chief of Strategy & School Partnerships at the Black Male Educators Alliance (BMEA), where he leads efforts to transform schools into liberatory spaces for Black, Brown, and economically disadvantaged communities. In his over 15 years of K-12 education experience, Michael has made a lasting impact on mathematics instruction, culturally responsive teaching, and school leadership.
He began his journey in education as a teacher in Baltimore City Public Schools, where he cultivated a deep passion for culturally responsive math education. Since then, he has served in various roles, including teacher, instructional coach, and educational strategist, working to advance equity-driven initiatives that improve student outcomes and educator retention.
At BMEA, Michael plays a pivotal role in developing and strengthening school partnerships, professional development, and coaching programs. He leads key initiatives such as:
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BMEA’s Liberating Learners School Partnerships – Supporting schools in creating equitable and inclusive learning environments,
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Quarterly Community Learning Events – Bringing educators and leaders together for shared learning and collaboration
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Strategic Partnership with the New York City Department of Education – Driving impactful changes in urban education spaces.
Through his leadership, Michael has helped various schools in Michigan and New York improve teacher retention, instructional practices, and student engagement, ensuring long-term, systemic change.
Beyond his work at BMEA, Michael is a loving father who volunteers as a coach, mentor, and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Michael has been recognized for his contributions to the field of education. In 2024, Degree Forward honored him with the Community Impact Hero Award for his dedication to educational equity and community empowerment.
Michael holds a dual master’s degree in Secondary Math Education and Special Education from Lesley University and a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Morehouse College. A committed advocate for students and educators, he remains steadfast in his mission to empower communities, foster transformative learning experiences, and drive sustainable change in education.
