Fourth grade students at Wenonah Elementary recently celebrated the release of their class book, eads of Diversity, a heartfelt and creative project that honors family culture and heritage through student storytelling.
Led by co-teachers Taylor Rose, Reading Specialist, and Nicole Mickens, 4th Grade Teacher, the project began during Black History Month with a focus on building inclusivity and student voice. Students interviewed their family members to learn more about their own culture and heritage. They then used the information they gathered to write personal narratives, blending storytelling with factual elements about their backgrounds.
“We’ve worked really intentionally to build an inclusive classroom,” said Rose and Mickens.
“These are some of the most inclusive kids we’ve ever met, and this project allowed them to
take pride in their identities and share that pride with others.”
The final product, a professionally bound class book titled Threads of Diversity, was unveiled at a classroom Publishing Party that featured Chris Lassiter, a local children’s book author, as guest speaker. Students shared their writing, reflected on what they learned, and celebrated their work with families and staff.
One student captured the heart of the project with this quote: Our family culture, that is what makes us special.”
The event was a powerful reflection of Wenonah’s commitment to celebrating diversity, nurturing empathy, and empowering young voices through meaningful and creative learning experiences.
