About the author

LaQuitta Barnes is a former Title 1 reading teacher with over thirteen years of experience teaching scholars within the public school system in Houston, TX. She is passionate about exposing scholars to culturally inclusive resources that help inspire and challenge them to make rich textual connections. Through the years she served in various capacities such as Literacy Coach, District Mentor and Campus Administrator and was awarded campus Instructional Coach of the Year. As a versatile educator, LaQuitta has enjoyed transforming children’s lives through literature and reshaping their future. She was inspired to write Black Wall Street: The Spirit of Community because of the lack of age-appropriate text to teach notable moments in history such as this amazing story. Entrepreneurship is also close to her heart, for the past fourteen years she has found success as a licensed realtor and real estate investor. The rich history of Black Wall Street resonates with her family’s goal of promoting the importance of entrepreneurship and generational wealth. Along with her husband and two children, LaQuitta has a passion for revitalizing her hometown by providing quality homes and creating a stronger sense of community.