Students learn about Black history

Pine Bluff Interested Citizens for Voter Registration Inc. has been virtually mentoring in Black history in October.

PBICVR will build upon the Pen or Pencil National Mentoring Initiative of the National Alliance of Faith and Justice in ambassador schools: Pine Bluff High School, Pine Bluff Lighthouse Charter School , Robert F. Morehead Middle School in the Dollarway School District, Watson Chapel High School and Watson Chapel Junior High School.

The initiative, called “Writing A New History Educational Expansion,” will be held from October through May , according to a news release. Schools will engage in “Take A Stand To Keep A Seat,” an activity endorsed by the National Council for the Social Studies.

The anticipated outcome will enable students to: Express comfort with people who are both similar and different from them and engage respectfully with all people; evaluate how historical events and developments were shaped by unique circumstances of time and place as well as broader historical contexts; apply a range of deliberative and democratic strategies and procedures to make decisions and take action in their classrooms, schools and out-of-school civic contexts; respectfully express curiosity about the history and experiences of others; exchange ideas and beliefs in an open-minded way; and begin to work constructively and cooperatively with others.

“We are very pleased that we will have virtual mentoring/technology support through from a well-qualified team of faculty and experts at Old Dominion University in Virginia,” said the Rev. Jesse C. Turner, PBICVR executive director.

A virtual graduation will be held in May for students who remain in the program and participate in virtual activities for one hour per month.

Details: PBICVR, (870) 730-1131, or the principals at participating schools.