Impact scholars and educators are honoring Black History Month by diving into Black Leader Spotlight projects, which will highlight trailblazing Black leaders who have made groundbreaking contributions to society, both in the past and in present day.
At Impact, our core value of Brave Solidarity is reflected in every aspect of our curriculum, so that all backgrounds are affirmed and celebrated always, and in particular during special celebrations like Black History Month!. Our north star is a fully inclusive curriculum that advances equity within ourselves, our schools and our surrounding communities.
A critical pillar of the Impact curriculum is literacy and we are so excited for our scholars to dive into books that celebrate excellent Black leaders and writers. Here are just a few of the wonderful books that are part of our Black Leader Spotlight curriculum!
Look Up With Me: Neil deGrasse Tyson: A Life Among the Stars
By Jennifer Berne
This gorgeous picture book about everyone’s favorite astrophysicist is sure to be a big hit for our Kindergarten scholars! They’ll get to follow along on a young Neil’s journey as he discovers “the wonders of space, the thrill of science, and the joy in sharing the beauty of our amazing universe.” Scholars will also get to learn mind-blowing facts and even discover what mysteries in space are left to solve.
Jimi: Sounds Like a Rainbow: A Story of the Young Jimi Hendrix
By Gary Golio
Jimi Hendrix was a determined and talented child, who had extraordinary musical talent. This picture book follows the life of Jimi from determined kid to masterful artist whose music “shook the very foundations of rock ‘n’ roll.”
Sail Away
By Langston Hughes
The great poet Langston Hughes had a fascination with the sea and wrote many poems about its majesty and enchantment. African American artist Ashley Bryan, who has lived on a small island, illustrates Langston’s poems in this dazzling picture book our scholars will love!
Shirley Chisholm is a Verb
By Veronica Chambers
This important book is a biography of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman in Congress, “an active and vocal participant in our nation’s democracy, and a force to be reckoned with.” Impact scholars will learn about her early years, her time in Congress, her presidential bid, and her continuing legacy.