Barnstable Teacher Honored For Creating Black History Curriculum

BARNSTABLE, MA — A Barnstable High School teacher was recognized by the school committee with the district's "Highlight in Education" honor for her work creating a curriculum about Black history and combatting racism.

History teacher Kate Scholes nominated her colleague Krissie Williams for the honor after Williams spent her summer creating the class "The African American Experience."

"Krissy spent her summer researching and developing this curriculum, so our students can learn more about topics that range from how African Americans incorporate traditional African folklore into their culture, to reading works by important abolitionists, to learning about modern day leaders in the African American community."

Prior to creating the new curriculum, Williams also spearheaded bringing a "Black History" course back to Barnstable High School, something that used to exist in the district, but had been gone for a long time, she said.

Williams work has also spanned outside the schools and into the community promoting anti-racism. She is the founder and president of the Barnstable Ally Group, which seeks to amplify the voices of communities of color throughout Barnstable.

Scholes said with the group, Williams led workshops for Barnstable High School staff. Williams won an award from the Barnstable Human Rights Commission for her efforts.

"I believe this work is incredibly important and I’m glad our school district has committed to it," Williams said. "Anti racism work is extremely important to me. It is in the very fabric of my being."