Our Story
Sankofa Education Services (SES) began in 1990 as Alkebu-Lan Homeschool. Founder and Director Ms. Maralene Ferguson Bates (aka Ms. Maatsaellah) wanted a nurturing place where children could learn in ways that fit their individual learning styles.
What began with homeschooling her own children, along with children of friends and neighbors, grew into a community committed to alternative education and the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Each child was valued as an individual, with parent participation playing an important role in their education.
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In 2018, SES expanded to offer Personalized Tutoring, Test Preparation, Homeschool Support, and Summer Bridge programs.

​Today, services are also available online through Zoom.


Why the name “Sankofa”?
Sankofa is an Adinkra symbol from Ghana showing a bird looking back over its shoulder. It means “go back and fetch it,” a reminder to learn from the past to guide our future. This idea remains at the heart of Sankofa Education Services.

Meet Our Founder

Maralene Ferguson Bates is a Georgia Certified Educator with degrees in Business Administration and Business Management, graduating summa cum laude with a 4.0 GPA from Medgar Evers College.

She is an approved facilitator for the ITBS and Stanford Tests and holds an international TESOL certification. Her experience includes Montessori classrooms, A Beka private schools, Title 1 tutoring, and preparation for the SAT, ACT, GED, and ASVAB.

Maralene has been recognized in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers and Marquis Who’s Who in America. She is also an Army veteran, earning several honors and achieving the rank of Sergeant in under two years.
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An educator, entrepreneur, and lifelong learner, Maralene remains dedicated to supporting students, families, and her community.