Wrapping up Learning about Black History Month 

Black History Month began in 1926 and is observed annually in the United States as a remembrance of the contributions that black Americans have made to the United States. At Glenbrook, we have read many books, researched many famous people, done projects and learned about many famous black Americans, cultures and traditions.  Last week, we welcomed two visitors who shared their stories.

Kenneth Rapier 

Chicago "Dodo" Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen

Mr. Kenneth Rapier, a cousin to an original Tuskegee Airmen, spoke to all 1st through 6th grader students and staff about the mission of the brave young pilots from World War II.  The Tuskegee Airmen were the first black servicemen to serve as pilots in World War II.  They faced much discrimination before, during and after the war, despite their success. In fact, they were actually trained to fail, but proved everyone wrong.  

When the men returned from war, they were unable to get jobs as commercial pilots despite their exemplary skills, all because they were black.  This discrimination made them feel like the "dodo" birds which became extinct due to their inability to fly.  Thus, they nicknamed their Chicago Chapter, the "Dodo" chapter.  New generation members are determined to have their name and their message live on forever and never die.

The organization has a great program for youth where free flights are provided on Saturdays.  Scholarships are also offered for High School Seniors.  All students, no matter their gender or race, are welcome. They do not discriminate. Their message is to provide opportunity for all. For more information, go to their website at:

http://www.taichicago.org/

                    

The second graders came up with many amazing questions to ask. They were very curious about the mission of the Tuskegee Airmen.  Great job Ms. Reiser's class!

Mr. Rapier shared with the students the Tuskegee Airmen's method of success.

1.  Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something.

2.  Remain united to a common goal

3. A Standard of Excellence, in everything you do, leads to success.

Mr. Rapier also shared with the children the slogan of the Tuskegee Airmen.:

"With Courage and Determination I Can Overcome Adversity."

We were honored to have Mr. Rapier, a new generation member with us. As a thank you for their service, we presented him with a "Certificate of Appreciation."  

Ina Dews

"Quilter," Elgin Artist

 Ina Dews was gracious enough to come out on a blustery, cold, snowy day to share her beautiful quilts and her story with the 6th graders in Mrs. Chandler-Roth's class.  The class had been reading the story Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt and learned about how quilts told stories. Ina shared several of her own stories with the students as well as the types of quilt pieces and their meanings. 

Ina challenged the students to tell their own stories using their own imaginations along with this fabric. They had a great time and enjoyed learning about the work and creativity that goes into the beautiful quilts made by Ina Dews.