Dear Fellow Resident,
This week we hear from Elyse Bittner, board member of our IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity Advisory). Elyse spoke with Harrison Elementary Principal AnnaLisa Rodano about how the Explorers have been celebrating Black History Month.
Principal Rodano told us,
Students throughout the building had many learning experiences within their classrooms.
There were learners engaged in ‘I Have A Dream’ writing pieces in which they shared what they want to achieve in their future. Other students researched influential Black Americans and practiced their public speaking skills sharing their facts with other Explorers, while others developed biographies celebrating the accomplishments of influential Black Americans.
Students embraced the many inventions developed by Black Americans as they voted on ice cream flavors to honor the ice cream scoop inventor Alfred Cralle. They built edible traffic lights to celebrate Garrett Morgan and explored uses for peanuts while learning about George Washington Carver.
On “Trivia Tuesdays,” we asked students trivia questions during lunch, using a “Who Am I?” format. We talked about the influential Americans from the week before, so they have to really listen. If someone answers correctly on the mic, their whole class gets a little certificate and kindness coins.
Each week I try to do a little extra something. For example, she showed Kamala Harris’ book as a YouTube reading. She also recommended classes get items such as potato chips, which were first created by Black American George Crum in the 1850’s. It makes it more of a memory.
It is important for students to connect with what they are learning about, so that it is authentic and better understood. We help forge this link by using pictures that depicted Black Americans in color photos instead of black-and-white.
A teacher pointed out to me that when you look at photos of influential Black Americans, many times they are in black-and-white. What that does is make people and children feel like this is something that happened a really long time ago. But it didn’t, this was very impactful for me.
Recognizing all of the cultures in this community is significant, it goes beyond background and ethnicity, it really is a mindset in regard to inclusivity. Everybody needs to learn and be accepting of one another. We are all part of a wonderful community and a wonderful school. It’s a great place to be.
Elyse shared this thought with me,
As abolitionist Harriett Tubman said long ago, “Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars and change the world.” This sentiment holds true for the children in our community, always encouraged to Explore for More and Reach for the Stars!
Thank you, Elyse, for providing us with this wonderful information and for the work you and your fellow IDEA board members do. Thank you, Principal Rodano, Principal Russo (Pleasant Valley School) and all the teachers, administrators, and staff at our elementary schools for the amazing impact you have on our children. You all make us Harrison Strong!
Together for Harrison Township,
Lou Manzo
Your Mayor
