The Greensboro City Schools were desegregated in 1971. Last night, four local residents, who attended school during the early years of desegregation, shared their personal experiences to Beta Delta, a Greensboro chapter of NC Delta Kappa Gamma, a society of key women educators. Chapter President April Dunovant and Andrea Green, Vice President and Chair of the Educational Excellence Committee, assembled the panel. From left to right, Elaine McRae, Ragsdale High School; David Moore, Dudley High School; Dr. Joanna Evans Lynn, Dudley High School; Francine Scott, Dudley High School (and UNCG). Elaine spoke about how her high school experience in an integrated school was very good, but only learned recently that the experience was not always as positive for her African American classmates. David Moore and Dr. Lynn both have books about their experiences. Mr. Moore talked about how the Dudley students were not completely on board with the idea. He also said that many of the white students that came to Dudley were from the White Oak Mill Community. As it turned out, the White Oak students were grateful for their Dudley experience because of the great course offerings available at Dudley. Dr. Lynn worked in the Virginia Public Schools teaching during the first year of integration. Francine Scott graduated from Dudley and also worked there.
The Beta Delta members were very engaged and had several questions for this informative panel. It is important to remember our history and use what we have learned to make the future better. Having conversations with diverse groups about their life experiences helps us grow in unexpected ways. We are really lucky the above four were willing to share their wisdom.
Happy Thursday!
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