In connection to Mitchell School's celebration of National African American History Month and our work as an International Baccalaureate school, we proudly announce the launching of a new unit of study for all students at Mitchell. The new unit focuses on the Civil Rights Movement, the importance of civic engagement, specifically voter rights, and social justice. The unit uses text, music and visual arts as a way for students to inquire (ask questions), think, discuss and reflect on:
- Civil Rights Leaders
- Equality
- Fairness
- Community
- The Right to Vote
- The Democratic Process of Voting
- Action - taking action in order to make the world a more peaceful place.
The central idea students are studying is that art and music can inspire people to be change agents in their communities.
Parents/Guardians Invited to Mitchell - Monday, February 10th
All parents/guardians are invited to come to school on Monday, February 10th as a part of National African American Parent Involvement Day (NAAPID). We will be highlighting some of the work from the new unit during this time. Here is the schedule of events:
- All day - Parents/Guardians invited to school to visit your child's classroom
- All day - Visit the Community Center for refreshments for parents
- All day - Social justice art displays around the school
- 9:30 PreK-Grade 2 Assembly - Songs and sharing the current all-school music unit of study about Civil Rights, Voting, and Civic Engagement
- 10:15 Grade 3-5 Assembly - Songs and sharing the current all-school music unit of study about Civil Rights, Voting, and Civic Engagement
- Follow up discussions/activities following assembly. Many classrooms will be connecting to their recent reading of the book: "Granddaddy's Turn: A Journey to the Ballot Box"
As you view student work in the building, notice the connections to the history of voting, the civil rights movement, and social justice. Students discussed in their classes the importance of making their voices heard in their communities. These big ideas were our inspiration as we created artwork with the themes of unity, sharing our voices, and expressing our ideas through art and music. Also notice that students are making connections to the importance of voting rights in the storybook "Granddaddy's Turn: A Journey to the Ballot Box" by Michael Bundy, Eric Stein, and James E. Ransome. The book follows the story of a boy and his grandfather who go to vote together for the first time. |
Keeping the Conversation Going!
Whether or not you are able to come to school on Monday, February 10 for the assembly and NAAPID, here are some questions to ask and discuss at home that are connections to the new unit:
- How has equality and fairness changed in our country?
- How have voting rights changed throughout the history of our country?
- What is it like when people do not have equal rights and freedom?
- What is it like for different groups of people?
- How can I make sure my voice is heard in my community?
We are really excited to share with this unit with you and we'd like to get your feedback on our work in order to get the best schooling anywhere for your kids.
Sincerely,
The Mitchell Staff
