African American art, literature, history and issues related to these subjects are often overlooked in our society.
Ms. Lynch’s African American Literature class seeks to change that in our school, particularly when it comes to local black history.
“There’s a rich bounty of local Black history that isn’t sufficiently explored or appreciated that we need to introduce,” says African American Literature teacher, Ms. Lynch.
Traditionally a single semester class, Ms. Lynch didn’t hesitate to take advantage of the opportunity to recommend it become a year long class. “We would have a whole year to work our way slowly through history and through literature and to do more projects,” she says.
Mrs. Lynch’s vision for her African American literature class has truly shined this year.
“We started with black visual artists and students researched a particular noted black artist as well as a particular piece of theirs for Black History Month,” says Lynch.
Not only are Black art pieces being studied, but they are also being recreated and interpreted by students in the class.
“Some students took a painting and created a sculpture or vice versa and just kind of did a bit of a play on it,” says Ms. Lynch. “My goal was to have them learn a little bit about it, and then try to position them in the point of view of a creator, of an artist, to try to give them the sense that you, too, can create and be an artist.”
Besides art and literature, the class explores African American history through documentaries and projects.
“My favorite part of this class is when we watch documentaries and learn their meanings behind the documentaries and the story they are trying to tell or bring across,” says junior Katelynn Kendrick.
Students have really shown their passion for the opportunity to take the class this year.
“I wanted to take this class because I wanted the most diversity possible when it comes to education,” says junior Kaine Flynn. ”My favorite part about the class is the dedication to making students feel welcome and comfortable.”
Flynn appreciates the class offering the chance to discuss different cultures and traditions, led by Ms. Lynch. “She’s extremely patient and understanding,” Flynn says. “The teacher really does make the class because you can tell she’s also very passionate about the subject.”
This class offers the unique opportunity to study Black art and literature, locally and globally.
“Take African American Literature,” says Ms. Lynch, “to expand your understanding of our shared history, present reality, and future potential.”
