Little Sun People Welcomes Our New Executive Director

Little Sun People’s Board of Directors is thrilled to announce that Aaliyah Barclift has been appointed as the new Executive Director of Little Sun People, effective July 1, 2024.

Aaliyah brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our mission, having served as an LSP teacher for more than 20 years and Educational Director since 2021.

A certified teacher with a Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Brooklyn College, a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Stony Brook University, and an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Medgar Evers College, Aaliyah has been instrumental in developing and implementing culturally relevant, academically rich, child-centered curricula. Her leadership skills and strategic planning expertise have been invaluable in supporting teachers, managing staff, and fostering a collaborative environment among students, parents, and our Brooklyn community.

Aaliyah has been featured in USA Today and The New York Times for her work promoting Afrocentric education, and in the 2022 book, Global Citizenship Education for Young Children: Practice in the Preschool Classroom. Her dedication to early childhood development, coupled with her innovative approach to education, positions her perfectly to lead Little Sun People into its next chapter.

For nearly 45 years under the visionary guidance of Mama Fela Barclift, Little Sun People has nurtured thousands of children, instilling them with a deep pride in their heritage and a strong sense of their place in the world. LSP has grown into a unique and cherished community child care center that emphasizes African culture, history, and values. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for her unwavering commitment to teaching and community building. Mama Fela’s legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward.

Aaliyah was Mama Fela’s very first student and the inspiration for Little Sun People. Her transition to become Executive Director of Little Sun People is a natural progression towards continuing the legacy of excellence and dedication to the Afrocentric education of our young children. We are confident that Aaliyah will uphold and expand upon the values and mission that Mama Fela spearheaded. Please join us in welcoming Aaliyah Barclift as Little Sun People’s new Executive Director.

Warm regards,

Little Sun People Board of Directors