Milwaukee City Wire

Black Lives Matter at School Week of Action will take place from February 3 to 7, with schools and communities across the country preparing lessons, activities, and events around the theme "Collective Value." The week will feature five days of education focusing on 13 guiding principles. Key priorities for 2025 include increasing Black and Brown educators in K-12, teaching Black history and ethnic studies, and fostering inclusivity among students and educators.

The MPS Black Lives Matter at School advisory curriculum provides resources and recommendations for classrooms throughout the district. Activities such as art projects and advocacy efforts aim to engage educators, students, and allies in conversations about racial justice. Families are encouraged to participate by reading books or sharing favorite memories and recipes at home.

Throughout the week, various activities are planned:

On Monday, February 3, students will create Black Lives Matter posters and decorations. Other activities include writing scripts for podcasts or videos that emphasize justice, diversity, collective value, or one of the week's guiding principles. Schools participating in the MPS Restorative Practices program use restorative circles to repair harm and rebuild trust after conflicts.

Tuesday's focus is on diversity and globalism. Research projects will explore the origins of the Black Lives Matter movement that began in 2013. Activities may also involve reading books that share diverse perspectives from different ethnic groups.

Wednesday's theme is trans and queer affirming along with disability justice. Lessons might examine how elections shape our environments. Discussions could focus on making a positive impact in school settings.

Thursday centers on intergenerational Black family values. Students might engage in activities like sharing family recipes or interviewing relatives from different generations.

Friday celebrates Black women under the theme "Unapologetically Black." Students can write thank-you letters highlighting contributions made by Black women globally or within their communities. Classroom presentations may showcase student leaders who positively impact their schools.