In recognition of Black History Month, Alice Smith Elementary School is honoring the namesake of one of Nevada's civil rights leaders and the founder of the Reno-Sparks chapter of the NAACP.
Smith was an advocate and a humanitarian who dedicated her life to helping others regardless of race or financial condition. Smith is known as a pioneer in improving better understanding between different races.
During Black History Month, the entire school focus on lessons based on the writings of Mrs. Smith, her life and her accomplishments.
Teachers at Alice Smith Elementary, like second-grade teacher Mrs. Hannah Diem, share students' reactions as they understand why their school is named after Smith.
"What's awesome is they can make connections to history so well," Mrs. Diem said. "They can say oh my gosh – that's why this is the way it is, or I've heard of them before."
Principal Arch Ruth shares that the students are reminded of whom they represent every day.
Students expressed their thoughts and inspiration surrounding Smith.
"She never stopped; she kept on going even if it was hard sometimes," Leilani Cocklin said.
Kindergartner Arianna Tobey learned she would play with anyone based on the lessons of Smith.
"If they don't have anybody to play with, I can play with them, or one of my other classmates could," Tobey said.
And student Elle Blanchard said she would use her voice for what is right.
"If anything went wrong, I would just stand up for what was right like Alice Smith," Blanchard said.
The students learning about Smith are strong examples of how Black history is American history and should be taught daily to inspire children continually.
