Honoring Black History: Celebrating Resilience, Courage, and Achievement

As we enter Black History Month, we embark on a journey of remembrance, celebration, and reflection. This annual observance serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact and enduring legacy of Black individuals and communities throughout history. From groundbreaking achievements and cultural milestones to the tireless struggle for justice and equality, Black history is woven into the fabric of our collective identity. In this blog post, we pay homage to the rich tapestry of Black history, highlighting the resilience, courage, and triumphs that continue to inspire us today.

A Legacy of Resilience

The story of Black history is a testament to the indomitable spirit of resilience in the face of adversity. From the horrors of slavery and segregation to the ongoing fight against systemic racism and oppression, Black individuals and communities have demonstrated extraordinary strength and resilience in the pursuit of freedom and equality. Despite facing countless obstacles and injustices, they have refused to be silenced or deterred, rising time and time again with unwavering resolve and determination.

Trailblazers and Visionaries

Throughout history, Black trailblazers and visionaries have shattered barriers, defied expectations, and paved the way for future generations. From civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X to groundbreaking figures in science, literature, and the arts, such as Maya Angelou, Langston Hughes, Mae Jemison, and Oprah Winfrey, Black individuals have made invaluable contributions to every aspect of society. Their courage, creativity, and ingenuity have enriched our world immeasurably, leaving an indelible mark on history and inspiring countless others to dream, aspire, and achieve.

Cultural Richness and Diversity

Black history is also a celebration of cultural richness, diversity, and heritage. From the vibrant rhythms of jazz and blues to the powerful expressions of dance, literature, and visual art, Black culture has profoundly influenced and shaped the cultural landscape of the world. Through storytelling, music, and art, Black creators have shared their experiences, traditions, and perspectives, enriching our understanding of the human experience and fostering empathy, connection, and solidarity across boundaries of race, ethnicity, and nationality.

A Call to Action

As we celebrate Black History Month, let us not only honor the achievements and contributions of the past but also recommit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for justice, equality, and human rights. Let us confront the legacies of racism and injustice that continue to permeate our society, and work together to build a more equitable and inclusive world for future generations. Let us amplify Black voices, support Black-owned businesses and organizations, and stand in solidarity with Black communities in their quest for dignity, empowerment, and liberation.

Black history is not just a chapter in the past; it is an ongoing journey of resilience, courage, and achievement that continues to shape our present and future. As we celebrate Black History Month, let us honor the legacy of those who came before us, while also recognizing the work that remains to be done in the pursuit of justice, equality, and freedom for all. Together, let us continue to strive for a world where every individual is valued, respected, and afforded the opportunity to thrive, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background.

Why Curiosity Matters

Curiosity is the engine that drives discovery, innovation, and personal growth. It is the insatiable desire to explore, question, and understand the world around us. Research has shown that curious individuals are more motivated, engaged, and resilient in the face of challenges. They are also more likely to seek out new experiences, think critically, and solve problems creatively.

In the classroom, curiosity serves as a catalyst for deep learning. When students are curious, they are actively involved in the learning process, making connections between new information and their existing knowledge. This not only enhances retention but also encourages a sense of ownership and autonomy over one's learning journey.

Strategies for Cultivating Curiosity

Encourage curiosity by asking open-ended questions that stimulate critical thinking and discussion. Instead of simply providing answers, guide students through a process of inquiry, encouraging them to explore different perspectives and draw their own conclusions.

Embrace mistakes as opportunities for learning and growth. Create a classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks, make errors, and learn from their experiences. By praising effort and perseverance rather than innate ability, you can instill a growth mindset that empowers students to embrace challenges with confidence.

Provide hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that allow students to explore topics in depth and make meaningful connections to real-world contexts. Whether through experiments, projects, or field trips, encourage students to follow their interests and pursue their curiosity wherever it may lead.

Celebrate creativity and divergent thinking by encouraging students to explore multiple solutions to problems. Create space for brainstorming, idea generation, and experimentation, allowing students to explore unconventional approaches and think outside the box.

As educators, we play a crucial role in modeling curiosity and a love for learning. Share your own passions and interests with your students, demonstrating that curiosity knows no bounds. Show enthusiasm for the learning process, and let your genuine curiosity inspire those around you.

In a world that is constantly evolving, nurturing curiosity is more important than ever. By fostering a culture of inquiry, exploration, and lifelong learning in the classroom, we can empower students to become active, engaged participants in their own education. So let us embrace curiosity as the guiding force that fuels the journey of discovery, igniting a lifelong passion for learning in every student we teach.

Education: The Key that Unlocks Opportunity

Education is often referred to as the cornerstone of a successful life, and for good reason. It is the foundation upon which we build our careers, our relationships, and our understanding of the world around us. It is the key that unlocks doors to opportunity and empowers us to reach our full potential.

Benefits of Education

The benefits of education are far-reaching and multifaceted. Here are just a few of the most important:

Economic Benefits: On average, people with higher levels of education earn more than those with lower levels of education. This is because education equips individuals with the skills and knowledge that are in demand in the workforce. In today's competitive job market, a strong educational background is essential for securing good-paying jobs and career advancement.

Personal Benefits: Education is not just about getting a job. It is also about personal growth and development. Through education, we learn to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. These skills are essential for success in all aspects of life, from our personal relationships to our professional pursuits.

Civic Benefits: An educated citizenry is a vital part of a healthy democracy. Educated individuals are more likely to be engaged in their communities, vote in elections, and hold their elected officials accountable. They are also more likely to understand and appreciate the diversity of our society.

Health Benefits: There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that education can have a positive impact on health. Educated individuals are more likely to make healthy choices, such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. They are also more likely to seek preventive care and follow medical advice.

Ensuring Access to Education

Despite the clear benefits of education, there are still many people around the world who do not have access to quality education. This is due to a variety of factors, such as poverty, discrimination, and conflict. It is important to work towards ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to get an education, regardless of their background or circumstances.

We can all play a role in promoting education. Here are a few things you can do:

• Support organizations that are working to provide education to underserved communities.
• Volunteer your time and skills to help educate others.
• Advocate for policies that support education, such as increased funding for public schools.

Education is not a luxury; it is a necessity. By investing in education, we are investing in our future. Let us all work together to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential through education.

 Hi, my name is J and I am currently a proud member of Next Era Pre-12 and Beyond in Tallulah, LA. Growing up in a rural area like Tallulah, I have seen firsthand the impact that social and environmental issues can have on a community. I've always been passionate about creating positive change, but I wasn't sure how to go about it.

That all changed when I learned about Next Era Pre-12 and Beyond. This organization has been an incredible resource for me, providing me with the skills, knowledge, and support I need to become a leader and change-maker in my community. I have had the opportunity to participate in workshops, training sessions, and campaigns that have taught me valuable skills like public speaking, strategic planning, and community organizing.

One of the things I appreciate most about Next Era is its commitment to empowering young people from all backgrounds and walks of life. Through my involvement with Next Era, I have been able to connect with other young people from all over the country who share my passion for social and environmental justice. Together, we are building a movement for positive change that cannot be ignored.

One of the most impactful experiences I had as a member of Next Era Pre-12 and Beyond was when I had the opportunity to present to our local government. Our team had researched the health risks associated with smoking and the benefits of implementing a no-smoking policy, and we were determined to make our case to the parish council. We spent weeks preparing our presentation. When we finally presented to the council. This was a proud moment for our team and me, knowing that we had played a part in trying to create a healthier, safer community for all.

Now that I am preparing for college, I know that Next Era will continue to be an important part of my life. I plan to stay involved with the organization and use the skills and knowledge I have gained to continue making a positive impact in my community and beyond. I am so grateful for the opportunities and support that Next Era has provided me, and I would encourage any young person who wants to make a difference in the world to get involved with this amazing organization. Together, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.

J

Getting Started

What You Need to Know About Education in Grades K-12

Education in the United States is a complex and ever-changing system, but one thing is certain: it is an essential part of preparing our nation’s youth for success. In grades K-12, students are exposed to a variety of learning experiences that are meant to enrich their knowledge, develop their skills, and prepare them for college and career readiness. 

From kindergarten through twelfth grade, students are immersed in a variety of subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, and the arts. These subjects are taught through a variety of methods such as lectures, projects, and hands-on activities. Additionally, students are also given the opportunity to explore their own interests and passions through extracurricular activities and clubs. 

Technology is an increasingly important part of the K-12 education system. Schools are increasingly incorporating technology into the classroom in order to enhance learning and prepare students for the digital economy. Schools are also using technology to provide personalized learning experiences for students, and to give them access to resources that can help them succeed academically. 

Finally, the social and emotional aspects of education are also important in grades K-12. Schools are increasingly emphasizing the importance of creating positive learning environments, teaching social-emotional skills, and providing support for students who need it. 

In order to ensure that all students receive the best education possible, it is important for parents, educators, and administrators to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments in K-12 education. By doing so, they can ensure that students have the resources and support they need to succeed.

In addition to the core subjects and technology, there are a number of other important aspects of education in grades K-12. For example, physical education and health classes are an integral part of the curriculum, helping students to stay active and develop healthy habits. Schools also emphasize the importance of character education, teaching students the value of good citizenship and responsible decision-making. 

In addition, there is an emphasis on developing 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking. These skills are essential for students to be successful in the future. Schools are also increasingly emphasizing the importance of global awareness and cultural understanding, which can help students become more informed citizens of the world. 

Finally, schools are also focusing on developing a sense of community among students. Through programs like student councils and mentorship programs, schools are working to foster a sense of belonging and connection among students. This can help students feel safe and supported while they are learning.

As educators, we have a responsibility to ensure that our students are learning and developing the skills they need to be successful. However, it can be difficult to know what strategies and methods are most effective in the classroom. Fortunately, there are a few key strategies that have been proven to have a positive impact on student learning.

One of the most important strategies for effective teaching is setting clear expectations. It is essential that students understand what is expected of them in the classroom and that they are held accountable for meeting those expectations. Establishing clear expectations can be done through activities such as goal setting and providing feedback. It is also important to make sure that expectations are realistic and that students have the necessary resources to meet them.

In addition to setting expectations, it is important to provide students with meaningful feedback. Feedback should be timely, specific, and actionable. It should also be used to help students understand their strengths and weaknesses and how they can improve.

Engagement is another key component of effective teaching. It is important to ensure that students are actively participating in class by providing them with engaging activities and materials. This can include things such as games, hands-on activities, and real-world applications of the material.

Finally, it is important to reflect on our teaching practices and make adjustments as needed. It is important to evaluate student learning regularly and make adjustments to our teaching strategies to ensure that students are getting the most out of their education.

By utilizing these strategies, we can create a learning environment that is engaging, and effective, and that sets students up for success.

How Childhood Trauma Leads to Addiction - Gabor Maté

 

 #Blacks in Science and Mathematics

#STEM

#Math

#Black History

1. George Washington Carver (c. 1860 - January 5, 1943)

Field: Botanist, Inventor, and Teacher 

Geroge Washington Carver, born into slavery, rose to prominence as a botanist, inventor, and educator. He discovered strategies to prevent soil depletion and invented over 300 uses for the peanut. He was elected to the British Royal Society of Arts, an unusual honor for an American. He advised important figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and President Teddy Roosevelt on agriculture and nutrition.

2. Percy Julian (April 11, 1899-April 19, 1975) 

Field: Civil Rights Activist, Medical Professional, Scientist, Chemist, and Academic

Percy Julian was a research scientist and pioneer in the chemical synthesis of plant-based therapeutic medications such as cortisone, steroids, and birth control pills. He was admitted into the National Academy of Sciences, the National Inventors Hall of Fame, and the American Chemical Society for his long-lasting contributions.

3. Mae Carol Jemison (October 17, 1956-)

Field: Engineer, Physician, and NASA Astronaut  

Mae Carol Jemison, an American engineer, physician, and NASA astronaut, became the first African American woman to travel in space on September 12, 1992, aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour.

4. Katherine Johnson (August 26, 1918-February 24, 2020)

Field: Mathematics 

Katherine Johnson was in the field of mathematics. She is best recognized for her significant contributions to the United States aeronautics and space programs through the early application of digital electronic computers. Her contributions were recently identified and included in the film Hidden Figures.

5. Gladys West (October 27, 1930 -)

Field: Mathematics

Gladys Walker was born and raised in Virginia. She used her mathematical and programming skills to create an accurate model of the Earth that served as the foundation for establishing the Global Positioning System (GPS). She was the second black woman to work for the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division and was inducted into the United States Air Force Hall of Fame, one of the Air Force's highest accolades.

6. Marie M. Daly (April 16, 1921-October 28, 2003) 

Field: Chemist, Researcher, and Activist

Marie Daly was the first African-American woman in the United States to acquire a Ph.D. in chemistry. She collaborated closely with Dr. Quentin B. Deming, and their research provided a new knowledge of how foods and diet might affect the health of the heart and circulatory system.

7. Edward Bouchet (September 15, 1852-October 28, 1918)

Field: Physicist and Educator 

Edward Bouchet was known for becoming the first African-American to acquire a Ph.D. from any American university and the sixth person of any race to receive a Ph.D. in physics from an American university. For 26 years, he taught science at the Institute for Colored Youth.

8. Annie Easley  (April 23, 1933 - June 25, 2011)

Field: Computer Scientist, Mathematics, and Rocket Scientist 

Annie Easley is well known for her work at NASA as a "human computer," completing sophisticated mathematical calculations. She progressed with technology, becoming an expert computer programmer who assisted in developing and implementing code for several projects.

9. Walter Lincoln Hawkins (March 21, 1911 - August 20, 1992)

Field: Polymer Chemist, Scientist, and Inventors

Walter Hawkins is well known for creating a plastic covering for telephone cables, which enabled universal service. He has received the National Medal of Technology and has been inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.

10. Alexa Canady (November 7, 1950-)

Field: Surgeon and Educator

Alexa Canady is well-known for being the first female African-American neurosurgeon in the United States and the first female African-American to be certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgery. After specializing in pediatric neurosurgery, she became the director of neurosurgery at the Children's Hospital. Under her leadership, the department quickly rose to become one of the best in the country.

 

The American Civil War (1861-1865) was fought between the Union and the Confederacy within the United States. While there were various causes for the battle between the North and South, a critical point of contention was the South's desire to keep slavery. Frederick Douglass, a slave who became an abolitionist, frequently discussed the abolition of slavery with President Abraham Lincoln.

The Civil Rights Movement was a social movement that ran from the mid-1950s through around 1968. This movement advocated for the abolition of racial segregation and discrimination against African-Americans in the United States. Small acts of resistance by regular folks laid the groundwork for this revolution.

Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) was a social reformer, orator, and writer of African descent. He escaped slavery, trained himself to read and write, and rose to national prominence as a leader of the abolitionist movement, which was dedicated to the elimination of slavery.

Booker T. Washington (1856-1915) was a civil rights activist and political counselor. W.E.B. Du Bois (1868-1963) was a civil rights activist, public intellectual, sociologist, and educator in addition to being a civil rights campaigner. Washington and Du Bois wrote about their remedies to African Americans' social and economic problems.

Anna Julia Haywood Cooper (1858-1964), was an American author, educator, notable scholar, and one of the first black women to acquire a doctorate in US history.

Ida Bell Wells (1862-1931) was an African-American journalist, editor, suffragist, sociologist, and Civil Rights Movement pioneer.

The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of African-American fighter and bomber pilots, as well as their support crew, who served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Despite racial discrimination, their operations were among the most successful in American military history.

Louis Armstrong was an African American trumpeter, composer, singer, and actor who lived from 1901 to 1971. Armstrong's career lasted five decades, and he is still remembered today.

The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural movement that occurred throughout the 1920s in Harlem, New York City. A "renaissance" is a time when there is a lot of artistic and intellectual activity.

Charles R. Drew was an African American doctor, surgeon, medical researcher, and professor who lived from 1904 until 1950. Drew's medical achievements saved thousands of lives in World War II Allied forces.

Sarah Hopkins Bradford released Scenes in the Life of Harriet Tubman, an authorized biography, in 1869. Harriet Tubman was an abolitionist who assisted slaves in escaping via the Underground Railroad. She frequently collaborated with Frederick Douglass, a public speaker, and novelist who was also an abolitionist..

Emmett Louis Till (1941-1955) was an African American fourteen-year-old boy from Chicago who was killed in Mississippi in 1955. More than 4,000 Black Americans were lynched by white mobs between 1877 and 1950. The murder of Emmett Till, on the other hand, stood out amid a long history of racist violence.

#blackexcellence

#blackhistory

#blackhistory365

#blackhistoryiseveryday

#blackhistorymatters

#blackhistorymonth

#blackhistorymonth2023

 #ValentineBook

3 paper bags

Single hole punch

Yarn or ribbon

Colorful Valentine's Day Paper

Glue or double-sided tape

Markers or crayons for drawing

happytoddlerplaytime.com

 #Black History

#Emmett Till

The shockingly violent murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till in the summer of 1955 was one of the most painful moments in the history of American race relations. It was also a key turning point for the modern civil rights movement, using the mass media to galvanize protests to demand the end of Jim Crow Segregation and equality before the law.

The decision to publish the unvarnished photograph of her son's brutally battered head and face was made by one courageous person, Emmett Till's grieving mother, Mamie Till Mobley. Emmett Till was a 14-year-old black boy from Chicago, who was lynched by white supremacists in Money, Mississippi, on August 28, 1955. Emmett Till's body was recovered from the Tallahatchie River with a 125-pound cotton gin fan belt tied around his neck. 

September 3, 1955, was the beginning of four days of the process of viewing the body of Emmett, and it was estimated that something like a hundred thousand people came to view his body in an open casket that his mother had designed. She allowed the press to photograph his body, and those photographs were published in Jet Magazine. Her decision to open the casket to allow those gruesome photographs to be published served as a catalyst for the next phase of the civil rights movement. 

What was seen in the mutilated remains of Emmett Till caused the death of innocence in this country. As Mamie Till Mobley expressed that there were no more innocent bystanders, we all had to take responsibility and become active in turning things around. What effect did this have on Mamie? Well, she was devastated but was able to minimize her grief for a mission. If the death of my son can mean something to other unfortunate people all over the world, then for him to have died, a hero, would mean more to me than for him just to have died. 

It's a story that still resonances today as we see the name Emmett Till is raised every time another Black male is taken down in an act of violence by a White perpetrator, and even a White authority figure who gets away with it. Although Emmett’s murderers walked free, Mamie Till Mobley’s prescient use of the media was a dramatic turning point in the movement. Just a few months later, Rosa Parks would refuse to move from her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, launching the modern civil rights movement. Today the widespread use of social media plays an enormously critical role in the pursuit of justice for Black victims of state-sponsored violence.

Valentine Ideas

 #valentine #love #valentinesday #valentines #valentineday #valentinegift #gift #valentinesgift #valentinesdaygift #happyvalentinesday #handmade #gifts #kadovalentine #birthday #art #heart #giftideas #fashion #flowers #chocolate #day #like #instagood #anniversary #february #wedding #instagram #photography #hadiahvalentine #bouquet

The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. Stories about civil rights for kids....

Write a story about Dr. Martin Luther King. Within the story, use at least 6 of the hashtags listed below.

#martinlutherking #mlk #blacklivesmatter #martinlutherkingjr #malcolmx #mlkday #blackhistory #ihaveadream #civilrights #marcusgarvey #martinlutherkingday #love #africa #malcomx #martinlutherkingquotes #blm #blackpower #mlkjr #blackhistorymonth #justice #rosaparks #georgefloyd #art #freedom  #blackexcellence #martinlutherkingjrday #usa #america #justiceforgeorgefloyd #mlkquotes #black #quotes #history #blackwomen #equality #peace #igreja #hernandesdiaslopes #panafricanism #leadership #knowledgeispower #civilrightsmovement #jamaica #kwamenkrumah #haileselassie #rasta #moors #ethiopia #lumumba #onelove #rastafari #africanroyalty #bhfyp #repost #aframerican #unitedstatesofafrica #prophet #africanstarline #africaunite

What made #Dr.MartinLutherKing's 

“I have a Dream” speech so historic?

#martinlutherking #mlk #blacklivesmatter #martinlutherkingjr #malcolmx #mlkday #blackhistory #ihaveadream #civilrights #marcusgarvey #martinlutherkingday #love #africa #malcomx #martinlutherkingquotes #blm #blackpower #mlkjr #blackhistorymonth #justice #rosaparks #georgefloyd #art #freedom #o #blackexcellence #martinlutherkingjrday #usa #america #justiceforgeorgefloyd

#MLK Day  

To spark understanding, reflection, and discussion, use the following questions:

Why did Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. say, “Everyone can be great because everyone can serve"? 

What does it mean to be a service leader? 

What action will they take to serve others in their community?

#usa #peace #quoteoftheday #freedom #america #history #africa #blacklivesmatter #leadership #jamaica #equality #blm #politics #blackexcellence #blackwomen #igreja #justice #blackpower 

 #happynewyear2023 #healthgoals  #healthyhabits #Ihaveadream  #january  #january2023 #januaryvibes  #letitsnow #martinlutherkingjr #mlkday #newyeargoals  #newyearnewgoals  #newyearsresolutions  #newyearvibes  #snowflake #snowseason  #wellnessgoals  #winter2023 #winterfun #wintervibes

LET THEM GO, GOD KNOWS WHY - Steve Harvey, Joel Osteen, Madea Best Motiv...

#successcoach#leadershipcoach#mindset

Prek-12 and Beyond #Drug-FreeCommunitiesCoalition NEEDS YOU

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