Mary Todd MacKenzie, fourth-grade math and science teacher, had her students write a short rap about a famous African-American each day. Betsy Johnson’s fourth-graders did research and wrote biographical reports about Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., read “Freedom on the Menu” about the Greensboro sit-ins, as well as read “The Story of Ruby Bridges.” In fifth grade, Brenda Bohn used the story of Ruby Bridges to open the discussion of how people of various ethnicities, races and religions have been targeted throughout history for their beliefs.
In music class with Chelsea Davis, the students learned about instruments, sounds, improvisation and famous jazz musicians. Students learned that jazz was created and made famous by African-Americans, including Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis and more.
In guidance class, with school counselor Chynna Bonner, students learned the character of Dr. King and others who changed this country, demonstrating in a non-violent manner. They learned about the determination, pride and strength of “coloreds,” as they were referred to at that time, through freedom songs, such as “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me ’Round,” “Woke Up This Morning With My Mind (Stayed on Freedom),” and “I Shall Not Be Moved.”
All of the students had the opportunity to put into practice what they’d learned at this year’s Black History Month Assembly, held on March 4 with Marie Barber, physical education teacher, as chairperson. The program consisted of praise dancing, a jazz selection from Mrs. Davis’ students, a trumpet solo from John Small’s very own Louis Armstrong, Ms. Forbes playing, “What A Wonderful World,” a solo from Linda Moore, school secretary, and culminated with the entire school singing freedom songs together. The central message of the program rang aloud: “We are going to break the chain of hatred, prejudice, racism, segregation, bullying and not liking one another.” This is a timely message all year through.