NABME Founders / Joseph E. Speight, Jr.
Co-Founder
Joseph E. Speight, Jr.
Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Friendship Public Charter School · Washington, DC
For more than fifteen years, Joseph E. Speight, Jr., has dedicated his career to transforming the lives of children, empowering educators, and strengthening communities through visionary educational leadership. Recognized as an innovative leader and advocate for educational excellence, he has consistently driven student achievement, developed high-performing teams, and championed equitable opportunities for all learners.
Throughout his career, Mr. Speight has served in a variety of impactful leadership roles, including Teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, Chief Academic Officer, and currently Deputy Chief Academic Officer for Friendship Public Charter School. Joseph is the Founder of the Black Male Teacher Residency (BMTR) powered by Friendship PCS and Co-Founder of the National Association of Black Male Educators (NABME). Through these initiatives, he has helped create pathways for aspiring educators and inspired countless leaders to advance educational equity and excellence across schools and communities.
Mr. Speight's commitment to lifelong learning mirrors the values he instills in others. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia State University, a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Nyack College, a Master of Science in Educational Administration from Trinity Washington University, and an Executive Master of Leadership degree from Georgetown University. He is currently pursuing an Education Doctorate (Ed.D.) in Policy and Leadership at American University.