Upper el is deep into a civil rights study. They have explored the trials and triumphs of African Americans through readings and reflective responses. Topics have included: slavery, the Emancipation Proclamation, reconstruction, Jim Crow Laws, segregation, integration, racism, white supremacy, Constitutional Amendments 13, 14 and 15, the Civil Rights Act of 1875, Juneteenth, non-violent protest, leaders of the movement, the Little Rock Nine, the Greensboro Four and Freedom Riders. In the spring, we will have a field trip to the Children’s Theatre to see a production about Freedom Riders.
One question we have asked ourselves is why so many people seeking peace, equality and justice have been hurt (or worse) throughout history. Additionally, what do we believe in? What is our moral code and what are we willing to do to stand up for it?
We recently welcomed author Tameka Fryer Brown to explore her book, “That Flag” with us. The story tells of the friendship between two elementary aged students, one African American and one white. Their relationship faces a challenge because the white girl’s family flies a Confederate flag in front of their home and after a field trip, the African American girl learns of the true meaning of “That Flag” - hate and racism. Ms. Brown read her story and talked with our students. She is interested in what kids think and feel about the story. She shared a message that each of them has the power to change the world.
As an extension of their reading, upper el students made their own flags. Each is adorned with illustrated symbols and colors to represent the people, experiences and values that are important to them.
Comments