Category: Current Events & News

On May 17, 1954, the United States’ Supreme Court unanimously ruled that state-sanctioned segregation of public schools was a violation of the 14th amendment and was therefore unconstitutional in the watershed civil rights case Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas.  

This monumental court ruling marked the start of the national effort to desegregate public schools, which continues to this day.  

On the 70^th anniversary of this crucial decision by the Supreme Court, we must not forget how the ruling actually came to be. It took the work of countless brave Black parents, students, educators, and allies working tirelessly to demand change at the local, state, and federal level. And it took those community members organizing even after the ruling to ensure the desegregation orders were implemented, despite what seemed like insurmountable obstacles.  

In this current moment, as we see the resurgence of an anti-equity backlash across the county, let us remember the lessons we learned 70 years ago— that when we come together, we have the power to create the world we want to live in. As we reflect on the past 70 years of the fight for education equity, let’s keep working towards a safe, equitable, inclusive classroom for every child, together. 

Read this article on The 74 to learn how segregation legally continues seven decades post Brown.

What was your experience learning about Brown vs. Board of Education and the fight to desegregate our public schools? Let us know by sharing your story here or in the comments below.

When: May 6th to May 10th, 2024 🌟 Teacher Appreciation Day: May 7th, 2024

Join us in honoring the dedicated teachers who light up our classrooms, inspire young minds, and shape the future.

Here are some heartfelt ways to express your gratitude for all the amazing things our educators do:

Create a social media campaign

Share stories of exceptional educators you know using hashtags like #ThankATeacher and #TeacherAppreciationWeek. You can post photos with your post and encourage others to join the celebration.

You can also share a story about an amazing Indiana teacher who has had a positive impact on you or others and we’ll shout them out on social media for you.

Write personalized notes

Pen down your appreciation in heartfelt letters to your child’s teachers. In these notes you can share specific details about how this teacher made a difference for your family and express how their dedication positively changes lives.

Gift thoughtful tokens

Consider sending your child’s teacher small gifts like personalized mugs, stationery, or classroom supplies. A simple gesture can brighten their day. If you decide to purchase a gift instead of making it, consider supporting local businesses with your purchase.

Send snacks to school

Send in snacks for your child’s classroom and add a special treat for your child’s teachers. Ask them if they have a favorite food that would brighten their day. You may also want to make sure there are no class allergies to avoid or policies around homemade versus store purchased and individually wrapped food items.

Send in school supplies

We may be nearing the end of the year, but teachers often reach into their own pockets to ensure every student has what they need to be learning in the classroom. Ask your child’s teacher which supplies would help them the most for the next schoolyear. Send in a goodie bag of those items.

Sign up to volunteer

Ask your child’s teachers if there are any upcoming activities in which they needs volunteers or if having a parent helper in the classroom one afternoon would be appreciated.

Take an appreciation video

Take a short video of your child thanking their teacher for all that they do and email it to them.

Remember, a genuine “thank you” goes a long way. Let’s celebrate our Indiana teachers and make this Teacher Appreciation Week truly memorable!