Horizons on the Hudson and Little Friends Learning Loft Join to Recognize Black History in Education
Black history is American history—recognized, celebrated, and learned about all year long. This fall, more than 500 students, from Horizons on the Hudson and from Little Friends Learning Loft, joined together to participate in the annual Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. What began as a kind invitation from Little Friends Learning Loft blossomed into a school-wide moment of learning, reflection, and shared action as students explored Ruby’s story through books, videos, photographs, songs and thoughtful discussion.
Young learners from Little Friends Learning Loft walked from their location on North Street to Horizons on the Hudson. Students then lined the hallways as our youngest community members, followed by our elementary scholars walked the halls, symbolizing Ruby Bridges' historic walk to school. All students joined in the gymnasium for a brief program led by the Horizons on the Hudson Library Troupe.
Each grade created an action plan that turned learning into voice. Together we learned and sang Lean on Me by Bill Withers, discovering how a song can carry powerful meaning and connect us as one community of caring voices. Across the school, students designed colorful placards (inspired by local author and illustrator Bryan Collier and pioneer artist Alma Thomas), filled with messages of unity, hope, love, resilience, and equity. Inspired by Ruby’s courageous steps, one class (work pictured below) went even further with their research and composed Flip Up Biography Books.
Our youngest scholars in Grades Pre-K through Grade 1 echoed the promise, “We’re not too small to stand tall!” Grades 2 and 3 crafted their own slogan and declared with pride, “We all belong. We’re Ruby strong!” Grades 4 and 5 raised their voices with conviction as they shared their own original and powerful declaration, “Be strong. Be brave. Be Ruby Bridges today!” On the day of the walk, our preschool visitors joined Grades 4 and 5 as they marched through hallways lined with cheering students who held their placards high and repeated their powerful slogans. The event culminated in the gym where our youngest friends gathered to watch and listen as Grades 4 and 5 sang We Shall Overcome, filling the space with hope, shared purpose, and a spirit of growing community.
This school-wide experience was organized by the Special Area Department through learning in Library, Art, Music, Spanish, and supported by classroom teachers. Library Troupe members also played a pivotal role in planning and leading this event. Students now understand that even at a young age, their voices matter. They can speak up, stand together, and become engaged citizens who help shape a more welcoming world.
Story provided by Ms. Michell Wright Jumpp. Additional photos and videos provided by the Horizons on the Hudson Library Troupe.
ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!
