Ruby Bridges Speaks With Lower School 

By Marsha Poh, assistant head of Lower School 
Students make a connection and learn about history straight from the source.
At 6 years old, Ruby Bridges began first grade at William Frantz School as the first Black student to attend an all-white elementary school in the South. In doing so, Ruby solidified her place in history and became poised to inspire those who know her story. More than 60 years later, Lower School students met Ruby on Zoom—hearing about her experience as a child and asking questions to understand better what life was like for her decades ago. 

Gabrielle Matusiak ’32, who recently completed her Wax Museum research project on Ms. Bridges, introduced Ms. Bridges. “If it were not for her, we all would not be at La Jolla Country Day together,” said Gabrielle in her remarks. “If it were not for her, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson would not be the first Black woman on the Supreme Court. Today, she still fights for peace and justice. She is a living hero, and I am so happy that she is speaking to us all today.”  

Ms. Bridges reinforced many of the lessons our Torreys learn, like how she embodies the Torrey Traits (e.g., caring, citizenship, fairness, respect, responsibility and trustworthiness). She vividly shared stories about her fond school memories with her first-grade teacher Ms. Henry. For instance, after learning her academic lessons, Ms. Henry would enrich the experience with holiday crafts, which Ms. Bridges loved. 

Ms. Bridges described playing near the beautiful trees that lined the playground at recess— something many of our Lower School Torreys also enjoy. She reminded students that “To have good friends, you have to be a good friend.” 

Students asked probing questions, wondering, “if, given the opportunity, would you go back and do it all over again?” and “what motivates and inspires you the most?” 

What began as a Black History Month lesson in kindergarten became a memorable connection for the entire Lower School community. Students and educators alike buzzed with excitement after the conversation. One student exclaimed, “Today, we did something I will remember for the rest of my life!” These moments link academic learning, social and emotional growth, and a passion for leading change.
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