Timothy Christian School students recently learned about the successes and challenges of Black Americans in interesting ways.
Third grade teacher, Corrine Alape wanted to teach her students firsthand what segregation feels like. Her methods went beyond discussing the struggles of what it was like to live as a minority during the time of segregation. She chose one day to favor certain students, while other students could not participate in all of the fun activities.
All students wearing their blue shirts on this day were given candy, allowed to get their snack and lunch first, and participate in special activities. Students wearing their plaid or white uniform quickly noticed they were not being treated fairly.
“We didn’t get the same attention as the blue shirts,” said third grader, Jayden Torres.
“I felt a little sad because it wasn’t fair,” said third grader, Destiny Allsbrooks.
At the end of the day, Alape revealed to the class what was happening.
“I want to talk to you about what was going on today. Did you notice what was happening?” Alape addressed her class.
Students shared their feelings about the days’ events and how they either felt mistreated or sympathetic for their classmates that were missing out on all the fun.
They discussed how segregation was never a part of God’s plan and that, as Christians, they should always model kindness to everyone.
As difficult as the experience was for students, their teacher had a challenging time as well.
“It was really hard to favor certain students. I found myself feeling bad. It was difficult for me to remember to just call on the students in the blue shirts,” says Alape. “My heart hurt for them. But I’m hoping that they are better able to sympathize and empathize with others.”
At the end of the day, Miss Alape was sure to give all students who did not get treated well double the candy they missed out on earlier that day, but more importantly is the lesson they learned.
“I think it’s a great way for students today to see how people felt back then,” says Alape.
You can view a video of this story here.
Famous Sightings
The entire elementary school also had the chance to meet some famous Black American pioneers this month. Elementary students recently filled building two for a special chapel in honor of Black History Month.
Several students as young as K4, shared interesting facts about a Famous Black American of their choice. Students even dressed up as their person. Among the famous Black American impersonators were Muhammed Ali, Misty Copeland, Rosa Parks, Benjamin Banneker, Michelle Obama, Jackie Robinson and Gabby Douglas, along with many others.
Parents and grandparents were in attendance.
“Words cannot express how thankful and proud I was of our elementary school, our Black History Month Chapel turned out even better than I could’ve imagined,” said Kristi McInerney, TCS Elementary Principal. “Hearing from all of the students who were
so well prepared for their presentations filled me with so much joy.”
Pastor and TCS Parent, Vincent Rouse led Chapel and spoke about his favorite famous Black American, Pastor Vernon Johns.
TCS is happy to honor Black History Month. We would like to thank all of the students, parents and faculty who helped make this happen.