Black Education for Black Children Matters

Liz Lampkin CNW Staff Writer

Black History “month” has arrived. It’s the one month of the year when the emphasis is placed on teaching youth of every race, creed and color about contributions made to the shaping of the world by blacks. It’s also the time of the year when society celebrates African Americans’ past and present in different ways. However, is one month enough to educate and commemorate an entire race of people with a rich and complex story? No, it’s not. Not only is one month, incidentally the shortest month of the year, not enough but is what’s being taught to our children accurate? Are parents and teachers teaching students of color authentic and complete stories of Black History? Educating black youth about the truth of how African Americans were and are presently involved in the shaping of white society is vital to the molding of young and developing minds. It will empower them to see how their ancestors, people who look like them, created legacies that they are privileged to experience. The truth is, black history is American history. It should be valued as such and emphasis should be placed on teaching it throughout the entire school year. With this theory in mind, Chicago News Weekly wanted to hear from a few educators and administrators from various schools around the city of Chicago to get their take on why Black History should be implemented in the classroom throughout the school year.

First up, we heard from Kimberly Randle, a Secondary English Educator (9th and 10th grade) from CICS Ralph Ellison high school. “Black History should definitely be taught year round. It’s identity-affirming and inspiring. When kids learn that there’s more to their identity, their history, and their ancestors than slavery or Jim Crow, and that they come from rich, robust, respectable, and regal people, it lets them know that they can be so too.”

Next up, we heard from Blair Savage, an 11th and 12th grade Learning Behavior Specialists from Per- spectives Leadership Academy. She believes that it’s important to teach Black students Black History throughout the because it’s a part of American history which is taught year round. Doing this will reinforce a sense of pride within students and give them the knowledge of all the wonderful things we have contributed to the world.

Last, but not least we heard the thoughts of Erika Whitehead, Assistant Principal of Catalyst Circle Rock Charter School. “It is important to teach Black History to Black scholars. Black History is their history, and it is important for them to know from whence they came. Additionally, it is important for black children to know that Black History does not begin and end with slavery. There should be opportunities for them to learn about the advancements and achievements of their ancestors. The teaching of Black History to black children is also important for the purpose of cultural relevance. Black children need to see themselves reflected in the curriculum they are being taught. This can help boost engagement, participation and mastery of content.”

The knowledge of Black History should be shared, taught and acknowledged everyday. Some ways educators can incorporate the truth of Black History is simple.

• Teachers can create units specifically focused on one aspect of Black History. From this unit interactive and engaging lessons can be planned to spark student interest. They can also create lessons that show how the past directly influences the present, and how it affects their everyday lives.

• Teachers can use quotes from famous writers and center class discussions around them.

• Incorporate engaging games about Black History that show how relevant history is to them.

• At the beginning of the school year, have students take an interest survey on what they would like to learn about Black History. Starting the year with planning and discussing Black History lessons and asking students what they want to learn will show them how important it is.

• Collaborate with colleagues and intentionally plan cross-curricular lessons centered around one theme for the entire school year. Displaying a joint effort to teach students the truth about Black History will show students that Black History is world history.

• Plan lessons around hidden figures in black history. There are so many people and historical sites that contribute to the magnificent story of people of color. It’s time to branch out, research and teach beyond what we already know and what makes us comfortable. It’s been said that education is the key to life. However, proper education is the key that unlocks and lifts the veil of ignorance to live a life true to oneself. Black education matters because Black Lives and minds matter. Parents and educators, let’s begin to change the narrative of Black History simply being Black History, but view and value it for what it is…American History and incorporate it in schools and life everyday.

Liz Lampkin is a Lifestyle, Love and Relationships writer. Follow her on social media @Liz_Lampkin.

CNW Staff Report

Single game tickets to Chicago Cubs regular season games at Wrigley Field will go on sale to the general public Friday, February 24, at 10 a.m. CST. On Wednesday, February 22, Season Ticket Holders will have the opportunity to purchase tickets through a presale opportunity prior to the general on-sale.

The Cubs open their 2023 regular season against the Milwaukee Brewers March 30 at Wrigley Field. The team’s schedule is highlighted by interleague play against every American League club, with notable home series against the Seattle Mariners, Boston Red Sox, Tampa Bay Rays and Cleveland Guardians, along with the Wintrust Crosstown Series against the Chicago White Sox. Cubs fans interested in securing their must-have matchups prior to single game tickets going on sale can purchase a “Build Your Own Baseball” Pack (BYOB) or an 8-game ticket pack at www.cubs.com/packs. The BYOB Pack starts at 12 games and allows fans to add additional games to customize their pack to best fit their schedule. The preset 8-game ticket packs are set around various themes including Fridays, Sundays, coveted rival matchups and summer games.

For more information on single game tickets or ticket packs, please visit www. cubs.com.