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Preparing Classes for Black History Month, I remembered those extraordinary figures whose courage and determination changed the course of history. Each of them faced challenges that seemed insurmountable but chose to act, becoming models of resilience and transformation.
Rosa Parks, with her simple yet powerful refusal to give up her bus seat, ignited the civil rights movement in the United States. Martin Luther King Jr., with his voice full of hope, led peaceful marches that united millions in the fight for equality.
Harriet Tubman, known as "Moses," risked her life to free hundreds of slaves through the Underground Railroad.
Ruby Bridges, at just six years old, defied racial segregation by becoming the first Black child to attend an integrated elementary school.
Nelson Mandela endured 27 years in prison and, upon release, chose reconciliation over revenge, leading South Africa toward a democratic future.
And Malcolm X, with his passionate speeches, inspired generations to stand against injustice and embrace their identity.
Their stories not only move us but also remind us that courage is not the absence of fear; it is taking action despite it. However, there’s something important we often overlook: they were not born heroes. They were ordinary people, just like you and me, who chose to take action in the face of adversity.
In the classroom, these stories can become powerful tools to teach our students that they, too, have the ability to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and leave their mark on the world.
I recall a spontaneous classroom conversation about Ruby Bridges. One of my students, Yael, raised her hand and shared:
“I don’t think I could do what Ruby did. If everyone looked at me badly and made me feel terrible, I’d rather stay home.”
Her reflection was a powerful reminder that our students, though facing different challenges, also need to develop the courage to face them. That’s why, this month, I’m not just focusing on teaching historical events but also helping them discover their inner strength.
With this idea in mind, I designed activities that connect students with these historical figures while teaching them to build resilience, clarify their dreams, and take action. These strategies transformed my classroom, and now I want to share them with you.
5 Strategies for Teaching Black History Month in the Classroom
1. Create a “Wall of Greatness”
Dedicate a corner of your classroom for students to write empowering statements about who they are. Phrases like: “I am brave,” “I have amazing ideas,” or “I can achieve my goals.” This wall not only motivates but also reminds them of the power of the words they say to themselves. Then I decided to create an individual activity, take a look at this resource!
2. Explore Your Students’ Dreams and Goals
Brainstorm with your students about what they want to achieve this year. It could be learning something new or improving in a subject. Help them visualize those dreams as achievable and guide them in mapping out steps to reach them.
3. Encourage Reflection on Personal Values
Talk with your students about the values that will help them achieve their goals: discipline, honesty, empathy. Have them identify which values are important to them and how they can put them into practice.
4. Introduce Inspiring Role Models
Share stories of figures like Rosa Parks, Ruby Bridges, or Harriet Tubman, highlighting not just their achievements but also their strength and resilience. This will help students see that courage often comes through action and determination to succeed.
5. Motivate Them to Take Daily Action
Small daily actions can make a big difference. Encourage your students to think of one thing they can do each day to get closer to their goals, such as practicing a skill, being more organized, or asking for help when they need it.
I remember Yael, an avid reader who avoided physical activities, sharing in class that she wanted to learn how to ride a bike. That weekend, with her dad’s support, she did it. When I asked her how she felt, she smiled and said:
“Teacher, I was scared at first, but I tried many times. Now I know I can learn to skate, it doesn’t seem so hard anymore.”
This small victory changed her perspective. What once seemed like an impossible goal became an achievable reality through determination, marking the start of many more lessons she once avoided out of fear.
Black History Month is about more than dates and names; it’s an invitation to teach our students that, like Rosa Parks or Nelson Mandela, they too can overcome challenges and leave their mark. The future is full of possibilities, and it’s in our hands to help them build the resilience, clarity, and courage they need to face it.
If you want to approach this topic beyond just history and inspire your students, here’s a resource that covers these strategies. Take a look!
Black History Month Activities: Reading, Writing, Leaders, Reflection & Craft
What story do you want to write with your students this month? Choose to inspire. Choose to transform.
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