Principal Gibson and Students invite the community for a celebration
CHICAGO – In celebration of Black History Month, State Senator Sara Feigenholtz and 44th Ward Alderman Tom Tunney will join Harriet Tubman Elementary Principal Kimberly Gibson, Local School Council Chairs, students, and Friends of Harriet Tubman to celebrate the unveiling of the new outdoor sign on Monday, February 14 at 1:45 p.m.
Agassiz Elementary School in Lakeview was renamed after Harriet Tubman, a formerly enslaved person who helped others escape through the Underground Railroad. An official renaming ceremony was held in June 2021 with former CEO Janice Jackson.
“It’s always the right time to do the right thing,” said Principal Gibson, inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “Our school motto at Harriet Tubman is, ‘We change the narrative and write our own story.’”
“Harriet Tubman represents the best aspects of America,” said Alderman Tom Tunney. “These students have picked a tremendous name for their school and in the process have learned so much about the hard work required to expand freedom and opportunity for everyone.”
“In historic Lakeview fashion, the Tubman community has made social justice education a priority for their students and made us all proud,” said State Senator Sara Feigenholtz. “It is an honor and privilege to represent Tubman School. What a gift to watch students have hands-on experience for social change.”
“The whole process was truly transformative in the way [students] are now invested in their own school,” Network 10 Chief and former Principal Mira Weber said. “It’s powerful.”
Senator Feigenholtz, Alderman Tunney, and Friends of Tubman donated the funds to provide the school with a new sign which was installed in early February. More improvements to the school will be done throughout the school year.
The unveiling of the new Harriet Tubman Elementary School sign took place outdoors on Monday, February 14 at 1:45 p.m. at 2851 N Seminary Ave.
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