Ruby Bridges entering schoolescorted by federal marshalls
Every year at this time I am charged with trying to explain to a new crop of 5-year-olds the importance of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
It's a hard job.
Every year, I smile at the irony of the situation. Because of the courage and successes of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr (and the many other freedom fighters), my students have no concept of the IMPORTANCE of these same brave people. Why would they? They have no experience with anything like this:
My students are awed by the fact that someone could go to jail just for sitting in the "wrong" seat or drinking from the "wrong" water fountain.
Or that the color of your skin would determine where you could eat, or who you could play with or where you were allowed to go to school.
This year, I just wanted to say thanks, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
I'm grateful that your bravery made the importance of your own life so hard to teach.
My students are awed by the fact that someone could go to jail just for sitting in the "wrong" seat or drinking from the "wrong" water fountain.
Or that the color of your skin would determine where you could eat, or who you could play with or where you were allowed to go to school.
This year, I just wanted to say thanks, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
I'm grateful that your bravery made the importance of your own life so hard to teach.
I am teaching this subject for the first time this year (as a first year teacher). I'm excited for Tuesday as my 5th graders share their opinions well. I think we are going to have a great discussion!
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