Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter, designed especially for the dedicated supporters and friends of the Association for Teaching Black History in Kentucky. We’re thrilled to have you with us as we continue our mission to educate, inspire, and honor the rich history of Black Kentuckians.
Meet Our New Executive Director, Shaniqua
Shaniqua Robinson, a native of Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, has dedicated over a decade to education, earning a BA in Secondary Social Studies Education, a Master of Arts in Teaching, and an Educational Specialist degree. Certified as a K-5Teacher, K-12 ELL Teacher, and K-12Principal, Shaniqua has taught 3rdand 5th grades, focusing on social studies and writing, and has served as a social studies lead and coach. Most recently, she was the Field Placement Coordinator and a visiting instructor, managing a clinical experience program for pre-service teachers. Passionate about history and education, Shaniqua is committed to providing a quality, comprehensive education for all students in the Commonwealth. She currently resides in Richmond, KY, with her husband Collis and their two sons, Trey and Andre. To read the full press release, click here.
ATBHK Teacher Spotlight of the Month Ahenewa El-Amin
This month, the Association for Teaching Black History in Kentucky is proud to feature Anehewa El-Amin, a 16-year veteran teacher at Henry Clay High School in Lexington, KY, and a member of our fellowship. Anehewa has a unique talent for making historical connections that resonate deeply with her students.
“Many teachers report that teaching American Literature— especially before Romanticism—can be challenging because students do not intuitively see connections between the history of early America and current America. I always found those connections to be easy and necessary to point out,” she explains. By highlighting examples like the relationship between Patrick Henry’s “Liberty or Death” speech and Malcolm X’s “Ballot or the Bullet” speech, or the contrasting experiences in “The Great Gatsby” and “Their Eyes Were Watching God,” she transforms literature into a quest for critical thinking. This year, teaching the College Board’s Advanced
Placement Africa American Studies course has reinforced her belief that the history of Black Americans is inextricable from the history of America.
Reflecting on the significance of teaching Black history in Kentucky, Anehewa draws inspiration from Frank X Walker’s poem “Kentucke,” which highlights the state’s unique position as a blend of north and south, recognizing the intertwined destinies of Black and White Kentuckians.
“Knowing that Kentucky is the only state that has produced presidents for both the Union and the Confederacy, and that it has a beautifully rich and diverse history of accomplishments possible through the drive and talents of so many African Americans, is both humbling and rewarding,” she shares. Anehewa’s dedication to her students and her passion for integrating Black history into every lesson is an inspiration. She hopes to ignite a similar passion in her students, encouraging them to find joy in understanding that “indeed, some of the Bluegrass is Black.” Join us in celebrating Anehewa El-Amin’s incredible contributions to education and her unwavering commitment to teaching Black history in Kentucky.
ATBHK Undergraduate Spotlight of the Month: Nile Rowe
ATBHK is thrilled to honor Nile Rowe as our Undergraduate Student of the Month. Nile is a senior at the University of Louisville, majoring in Elementary Education and earning a certificate in Peace, Justice, and Conflict Transformation.
When asked about her passion for teaching Kentucky’s Black history, Nile shared, “Teaching Kentucky’s rich Black history not only reflects the experiences of many students but also creates opportunities for others to see diverse groups in new, empowering lights. Students are uplifted by stories of Black resilience and ingenuity, and they are united through the understanding of Black people’s significant impact on Kentucky. It’s a vital subject for today’s classroom.”
Nile’s dedication to education and her commitment to social justice inspires us all. Congratulations, Nile, for your outstanding achievements and for making a difference in the lives of students and the broader community.
Spotlight Teacher and Undergraduate Recommendations
Do you know an exceptional Kentucky teacher who is making a significant impact in teaching Black history? We want to hear about them! Nominate a dedicated educator who is bringing Kentucky’s Black history to life in the classroom and inspiring students.
Teacher of the Month Nomination Form
Undergraduate Student of the Month Nomination Form
ATBHK Mini-Grant Application OPEN NOW!
The Association for Teaching Black History in Kentucky is excited to offer mini-grants to support our amazing K-12 teachers! If you have a creative project or lesson idea focused on Kentucky’s rich Black history, we want to help make it happen.
What Can You Do with the Grant?
- Teaching Materials: Buy books, films, and other resources to bring Black history to life in your classroom.
- Field Trips: Take your students on educational trips to museums, historical sites, and cultural centers.
- Conferences and Workshops: Attend events that help you learn more about Black history and bring back new ideas to your students.
- Special Projects: Develop new lesson plans, invite guest speakers, or create unique projects that engage your students in learning about Black history.
- Grant Amounts: You can apply for grants ranging from$250 to $500. And the best part? You can apply for renewal each year if funds are available!
Who Can Apply? Any K-12 teacher in Kentucky with a passion for teaching Black history.
Application Process:
- Fill Out the Form: Provide some basic information about yourself and your
school, then describe your project, how you’ll use the funds, and what you hope to achieve. - Review and Decision: Our committee will review all applications and select th
projects that best meet our mission.
Contact Information:
Email: [email protected]
phone: 859-985-3942
Website: www.atbhk.org
Professional Reading
Black History is Not American History: Toward a Framework of Black Historical Consciousness
The LaGarrett King framework is a cornerstone of the ATBHK philosophy, emphasizing the importance of teaching Black American history beyond the limited perspective of white relativity. King argues that focusing solely on oppression does a disservice to the full narrative of the Black experience in America. To tell a complete and authentic story, educators must also highlight moments of joy, resilience, and the diverse experiences that comprise Black history.
ATBHK Wants to Visit Your School!
