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Schools Nationwide Mark 65 Years Since Ruby Bridges’ Walk With Student-Led Commemorations

The student-launched tradition serves as a classroom lesson in courage, inclusion, and equality.

Overview

  • Hundreds of local walks and school activities were held on Nov. 14 to honor Ruby Bridges’ 1960 integration of William Frantz Elementary under federal escort.
  • Events ranged from Maryland and Kansas to multiple California communities and Montana, with students, families, and local leaders joining walk-to-school gatherings and readings.
  • The observance began in 2018 when San Francisco fifth-graders created Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, which has since spread widely as an annual Nov. 14 event.
  • In Folsom, California, 11 elementary schools participated districtwide, and Folsom Hills Elementary marked its first year with plans to make the walk a yearly tradition.
  • Students in Kansas who met Bridges and urged recognition through HB 2330 saw the bill stall in committee but continue their advocacy with local commemorations and public engagement.