Item description
Ruby Bridges was the first African-American child to attend an all-white elementary school in the South during the Civil Rights era. In 1960, at the age of six, Ruby was selected to participate in a school integration program in New Orleans, Louisiana. She had to be escorted to school by federal marshals due to violent protests by angry white parents and community members.
Despite facing harassment and discrimination from both the white community and some members of the black community who opposed school integration, Ruby remained strong and focused on her education. She attended school alone for a year before other African-American students joined her in integrated classrooms.
Ruby’s story became a symbol of the Civil Rights movement and inspired many others to fight for equality and justice. She later became a civil rights activist herself and continues to speak out about her experiences and the ongoing struggle for equality.
The story of Ruby Bridges is a powerful story that can be taught in grades 1-5 and adapted for different levels of learners.
This unit of resources includes a virtual read aloud as well as page by page discussion ideas and questions. Also included are reading comprehension worksheets, reflective writing pieces, and graphic organizers.
It can be used as a separate reading unit or a springboard to Black History Month studies.