OACS creates path of harmony

West Orange Times & Observer
Neighborhood

Oakland Avenue Charter School has started what staff hopes will be an annual tradition. After a monthlong celebration of black history, the OACS faculty wanted to culminate it in a big way. The celebration followed an overhaul of class curricula, and teachers did a deep dive into the hidden histories of black Americans and their trials and triumphs.

Originally inspired by a tribute at Martin Luther King Jr.’s former home, instructional coach Holly Hernandez sought a way to bring a version of this to Oakland. She took the idea to teachers Ana-Alicia Myers and Danielle Claxton.

“The big-picture goal is to gain a greater understanding of the achievements of black Americans and how they have helped to shape all Americans and American society,” Hernandez said.

The project evolved into the “Harmony Walk.” Every student, from VPK to fifth grade, was involved in the celebration. Students created posters with quotes, photos and encouraging words of their own design, and they were placed along a path in the courtyard. Students and guests were able to walk and reflect on the accomplishments of black Americans.

author

Amy Quesinberry

Community Editor Amy Quesinberry was born at the old West Orange Memorial Hospital and raised in Winter Garden. Aside from earning her journalism degree from the University of Georgia, she hasn’t strayed too far from her hometown and her three-mile bubble. She grew up reading The Winter Garden Times and knew in the eighth grade she wanted to write for her community newspaper. She has been part of the writing and editing team since 1990.