This report is the third in a series that probes community reactions to K-12 education; its two predecessors, "Lift Every Voice and Lead: African American Leaders' Perceptions of K-12 Education Reform" (see ED588631), and "Done to Us, Not with Us: African American Parent Perceptions of K-12 Education" (see ED573649), addressed the roles that should be played by parents and community leaders. The role to be played by youth is just as important. They are, after all, the stakeholders whose response to reform will determine if it succeeds or fails. Of the three groups, they are the only one with firsthand knowledge of what happens in the classroom. And, all too often, they do not have a seat at the table during reform discussions. This study begins to remedy that omission. The findings indicate that African American youth want to be heard, and they offer meaningful commentary on the educational environment and the structural issues that may impede their success. African American youth consider education a key factor in achieving their life goals and overwhelmingly want a college degree; yet, like parents and leaders, many students, especially those from low-income backgrounds, often lack the information needed to successfully navigate the educational landscape. This information deficit often creates barriers to college entry and can have enduring effects on students and communities. This report summarizes the perceptions of African American youth on K-12 education and provides actionable recommendations for improving the educational trajectories of all students.