Kindergarten Students Reflect on Courage and Fairness While Learning About Viola Desmond
Unity, love, and respect filled the Kindergarten classroom at St. Alexander Catholic Elementary School on February 19, where Ms. Kerri Clark’s students continued their Black History Month learning by exploring the story of Viola Desmond, a Canadian civil rights pioneer whose courage helped challenge and dismantle racial segregation.
Throughout the month, students have been engaging with age-appropriate stories that honour the contributions and experiences of Black Canadians. This lesson built on what the Kindergarten class had already learned about Viola Desmond and the historic moment in 1946 when she refused to leave a segregated section of a Nova Scotian theatre.
Together, the class reflected on the qualities Viola demonstrated that day. Students quickly identified bravery and courage, speaking about the strength it must have taken for one person to stand firm in the face of injustice. Their insights highlighted the natural sense of fairness and compassion that young learners bring to these conversations, and the importance of fostering those values from the very beginning of their education journeys.
One of the most moving moments came as a song recounting Viola’s story played in the classroom. As the chorus rang out — “She sat down to stand up!” — students raised their hands in unison, joining in with enthusiasm.
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“They started doing it all on their own,” said Ms. Clark. “That acceptance and unity is innate.”
As part of their learning, students were also invited to think about a time when they themselves had to show courage. During the activity, they made thoughtful connections to real-life experiences — from facing a “really big needle,” to bravely starting school, to one student describing a bumpy airplane flight during their family’s journey from Nigeria to Canada. In each case, students were able to relate their learning to their own experiences in a way that deepened their understanding.
Ms. Clark additionally spoke with her students about the beauty of diversity, helping them recognize that every person brings their own unique gifts and perspectives. By learning about Viola Desmond, students also learned how acts of courage can inspire others and help make communities more just and welcoming.
The lesson offered our young learners a meaningful way to honour Black History Month: by listening, reflecting, and celebrating a story that continues to shape Canada today. |
As we reflect on the importance of nurturing inclusive school communities where diversity is honoured, we extend our gratitude to the educators, parents, and guardians who help shape these learning environments. The values of love, kindness, and acceptance that begin at home are reflected so clearly in our classrooms. We are grateful for the shared commitment that helps ensure our schools remain safe, welcoming spaces for every learner.