A new series of Black history lessons tailored for kids will kick off in Indianapolis this weekend.
The Black History Saturday School series at Witherspoon Presbyterian Church starts Nov. 9 and is enrolling students.
Mark your calendar
Each Black History Saturday School meeting runs from 10-11:30 a.m. at Witherspoon church.
- Nov. 9 and 23
- Dec. 7 and 14
- Jan. 11 and 25
- Feb. 8 and 22
- March 8 and 22
- April 12 and 26
- May 3
The free series will meet twice a month through early May, offering kids ages 8 to 12 the opportunity to learn about Black history through an interactive curriculum that could include games, flashcards and media.
The series is part of a partnership between the IU Indianapolis School of Education, the IUI’s Center for Africana Studies and Culture and Witherspoon church. IU Indianapolis students teach the classes, which will shine a light on the history of African civilizations, leaders and innovators.
Coordinator Leslie Kenneth Etienne, who is also the founding executive director of IUI’s Center for Africana Studies and Culture, said the course is designed to supplement what students learn in school about history and dive deeper.
“There’s not enough hours a day in your school day,” Etienne said. “The goal is to shape people who are passionate about learning.”
He said he hopes lessons about local Black figures like Madam C.J. Walker and Major Taylor capture students’ interest and inspire them to explore the contributions of Black leaders around the world.
The classes meet from 10-11:30 a.m. every other Saturday at Witherspoon church, 3535 W. Kessler Blvd. N. Drive. Registration is free and students from any school are welcome to attend. Registration is available through an online Google form.
Mirror Indy reporter Carley Lanich covers early childhood and K-12 education. Contact her at carley.lanich@mirrorindy.org or follow her on X @carleylanich.
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