Kevin Johnson from the Connecticut State Library gave a special presentation on Tuesday, February 26, 2008, to our second, third and fourth grade students as a way to culminate our Black History Month celebrations. He is an employee of the State Library’s History and Genealogy Unit who has presented the life of African American Civil War soldier William Webb, a native of Hartford, Connecticut, in over 300 performances over the past eight years. The library’s web site explains how Johnson shares the story of Webb’s early life in Hartford, his recruitment and training, and the traumatic battles of the Civil War in an exciting first person perspective that vividly illustrate the struggle of the African-Americans in the Colored Infantry during the Civil War. Students actively participated in the presentation when appropriate. Private Webb also enthusiastically answered questions posed by the students. Due to the high demand for Kevin Johnson’s presentation as Private William Webb, we have once again booked him a year in advance for next February. 

Each day this month during morning announcements, we introduced our students to contemporary African Americans who are making important contributions to our nation. These announcements gave the children an appreciation for the important ways African Americans continue to enrich our lives. We invite parents to continue their child’s education by researching the lives of other accomplished African Americans. 

Many interdisciplinary units were taught regarding Black History Month throughout the building. Students made posters, papier-mache masks, and sang songs related to African Americans. 

Kevin Johnson as Pvt. William Webb

Kevin Johnson & friends after the performance