Eagle Students Craft Written Quilts Inspired by Black History Month

MEDFORD, NEW YORK (FEBRUARY 2024)—In celebration of Black History Month, Eagle Elementary School held a school-wide read aloud of The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson. Following the read aloud, students made quilts with prompts connected to the book.

“We are always looking for ways to engage our students with meaningful school-wide projects,” said Patchogue-Medford School District Superintendent Dr. Donna Jones. “These activities connect students from kindergarten through fifth grade, enhancing school identity and unity, and relate to the lessons students are learning in their respective classrooms. This project built upon the other Black History Month assignments students are enjoying in their classes.”

The Other Side is an impactful picture book about Clover, a Black girl in a segregated town, who forges a meaningful friendship with Annie, a white girl from the other side of the fence. An American Library Association Notable Book and the winner of numerous accolades, including the 2001 Time of Wonder Award, The Other Side carries a powerful message of combating bigotry and spreading compassion.

Eagle Elementary School students used the lessons they learned from the read aloud to respond to related writing prompts. Kindergartners and first and second graders described the actions they can take to be good friends, and third, fourth, and fifth graders shared how they can use friendship to overcome social injustices. These thoughtful responses were then connected to make written quilts displayed by the school’s main entrance.

“Students and staff alike enjoyed this activity,” said Eagle Elementary School Assistant Principal Stephen Santacroce. “They continually stop in the hallway to admire the quilts. It is beautiful to see the positive impact this text has had on our school community.”

For more information about the Patchogue-Medford Union Free School District, please visit the District’s website at www.pmschools.org. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PatMedSchools/. #PatMedPride.