Gwen Partridge, affectionately known as “Mrs. Gwen,” is making her mark in education by creating a Black History Month exhibit at the YMCA Immanuel Early Learning Center in Omaha, Nebraska. With the political landscape forcing schools to reconsider diversity initiatives, she expresses concern about the future of Black history education once she retires.
On a chilly Thursday, Gwen Partridge guided her pre-K students through a homemade Black History Museum at their learning center, a project she and her colleagues put together with thorough research and creativity.
“It’s rewarding when students learn about Black history and parents express their gratitude,” Partridge shared.
For 20 years, Partridge has dedicated her career to teaching, and her innovative museum includes interactive sections, such as a music area featuring a piano, a hair salon setup, and numerous books highlighting influential figures in Black history.
The predominantly white class frequently queries her about racial differences, prompting important discussions about historical figures such as Ruby Bridges, the first Black student to integrate an all-white school in the 1960s.
“She was just a little girl, much like you,” Partridge explained, emphasizing the courage it took for Bridges to enter a classroom where she felt isolated.
Challenges Facing Black History Education
Recent directives from the U.S. Department of Education have raised alarms among educators, calling for the elimination of diversity programs within a tight timeframe or facing potential loss of federal funding.
Officials from several large school districts in Nebraska have opted to remain silent regarding Black history education, citing sensitivity around the ongoing national discussions on the subject.
Tim Royers, president of the Nebraska State Education Association, noted the current climate has led to a significant chilling effect. “Schools are understandably hesitant to engage in these conversations for fear of repercussions concerning funding,” he stated.
The pressures surrounding these discussions contribute to a troubling trend of low teacher retention, particularly in rural districts where turnover rates remain high.
“Educators are not shying away, but we’re hearing of instances where simply mentioning ‘equity’ in programs leads to threats of funding cuts,” Royers added.
Standing Up for Black History Month
Conversely, not all educators face these pressures. Dan Wade III, a social science teacher in Southern California, has found strong support from his district for the newly launched African American studies course he co-authored. “The class has attracted a diverse student body,” he noted, with 95% of attendees identifying as non-African American.
Wade emphasized the importance of this course in fostering discussions about current events and social justice, feeling a sense of responsibility to champion Black history amidst the evolving educational landscape.
However, uncertainties loom over the continuity of such initiatives as debates heighten regarding Black history education in schools.
Understanding Black History Month
A recent letter from the U.S. Department of Education criticized schools for what it described as discriminatory practices regarding race-based educational preferences, controversially targeting programs advocating for diversity and inclusion.
“It’s vital to convey that teaching Black history is not about advocating superiority over any race; it’s about acknowledging contributions while confronting historical oppression,” stated LaGarrett King, a professor and director of the Center for K-12 Black History and Racial Literacy Education.
King highlighted the necessity for comprehensive historical education to reflect all experiences, emphasizing the importance of Black voices in history effectively being taught and understood in schools.
As Partridge prepares to retire in June, she remains steadfast in her mission to ensure that the pre-K Black History Museum remains an educational resource, aiming to continue celebrating Black history and its significance for future generations.
