Washburn University Education Department Partners with USD 501 to Commemorate Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day

Topeka, Kan. -The Washburn University Education Department is partnering with USD 501 for an event commemorating national Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. Teacher education candidates will spend time with first grade students from Meadows Elementary School Thursday, Nov. 13, in advance of the national Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day Nov. 14.

Teacher education candidates in the Washburn University Education Department will read the book, "I Am Ruby Bridges," with the students and will do an activity exploring Ruby Bridges’ legacy. The teacher education candidates will eat lunch with the students, continuing the conversation about kindness and acceptance. When the students return from lunch, Washburn will surprise them with their own Ruby Bridges backpacks with the Ruby Bridges book, a pennant, Washburn University goodies and a new pair of shoes. They will help the students put on their new shoes and they will engage in a walk in honor of Ruby Bridges.

“Part of effective training for tomorrow’s teachers is spending time in the classroom today, as student teachers and in philanthropic efforts,” said Dr. Carolyn Carlson, professor, Washburn University Education Department. “We are thrilled to work with our partners at USD 501 to share the story of Ruby Bridges with first graders at Meadows Elementary.”

This event is made possible by a grant from the Washburn University Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning (CTEL), a donation from Walmart and a donation from an anonymous donor.

Nov. 13: Washburn/Meadows Elementary Event

Meadows Elementary School, 201 SW Clay St, Topeka, KS 66606

10:45 - 11:10 a.m.          Washburn teacher education candidates work with Meadows students in small groups

11:10 - 11:40 a.m.          Washburn teacher education candidates eat lunch with their Meadows student group; remaining volunteers prep for next event

11:40 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.  Groups return from lunch; backpacks and shoes are distributed

Nov. 14: National Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day

Six-year-old Ruby Bridges stepped into the history books in 1960 when she integrated William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans becoming a national icon for the civil rights movement. Today her story continues to inspire the next generation of leaders to end racism together one step at a time.

Nov. 14 has become an annual day of dialogue to commemorate Bridge’s historic steps. Students continue the conversation and take part in their own forms of activism to bring an end to racism and all forms of bullying. Learn more at rubybridges.foundation.

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