Topic: Documenting Historically Segregated Black Schools
The history of school desegregation includes many important stories of courageous African American families and their children who were the first to attend previously whites-only schools. But there’s another history that often goes untold. That one is about the rich history of education provided by the historically segregated black schools. Innovative and creative leaders, many of them born in slavery, created schools that would transform and inspire subsequent generations. This week we’re telling part of their story through a new initiative from Wake County Schools to chronicle the rich history of Wake’s historically segregated schools.
Guests:
Dr. Jim Martin, Chairman, Wake County Board of Education
Natalie Perkins, Former Washington Elementary Student
Mary Linda Hall Jordan, Former Apex Consolidated High School Student
Deborah Beckwith, Former Holly Springs & Apex Consolidated Student
RESOURCES
EdLines
Senate leader says loosen private voucher rules
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/local/education/article226533280.html
My Future NC sets attainment goal for state
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/article226523835.html
State superintendent highlights initiatives at private event
https://www.wral.com/nc-superintendent-shares-top-education-priorities-including-raising-teacher-pay-at-least-5/18203484/
Interview Segments
Wake hopes to document history of segregated black schools before it is ‘lost’
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article225599325.html
Alumni want NC to recognize Raleigh’s first public high school for blacks
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/education/article138901793.html
Voices of Washington Elementary
https://sites.google.com/wcpss.net/voicesofwashington/home?authuser=0
I am not much of a tv watcher, so I had never seen this program before today. I was amazed and in awe of the nature of the program, the subject of the program, the discussion that was held, and so appreciative of the remarks made by the host, Keith Poston. It just so happens that I grew up in Wilmington and graduated from Williston High School in 1955. Even though my time in school preceded the dates of attendance of the guests, I could agree with everything they said. My education was extraordinary (went away to college and “learned” many things I had already learned at Williston. The teachers there were so amazing, so empathetic, so sympathetic to my personal circumstances that even now, after having graduated in 1955, I can still name every one of my teachers from 1st grade through 12th grade. They were so helpful to me in personal ways. Never had a white teacher until college, but in Wilmington, I had the best anyone could have. They inspired me to become a teacher. I retired some years ago and recently returned to work. I still think of those teachers and the schools in Wilmington and speak about them to my students. Will make a donation but by mail only.