Katherine Aybar

  We have created a visual representation that takes viewers on a poignant journey through the annals of American history. It guides the audience through the turbulent era of school segregation and its lasting impact on contemporary educational landscapes. The selection of historical photographs is wise, and each frame is filled with the palpable struggles and triumphs of those who fought against the entrenched forces of racial discrimination. The representation highlights the profound injustices faced by African American students during the Segregation Era. Each photograph is like a time capsule, taking the viewers back to an era where the promise of equality was far from being fulfilled. These pictures depict the crumbling structures of segregated schools, which lay bare the physical manifestations of systemic neglect and inequality. These schools serve as silent witnesses to the indignities suffered by generations of marginalized students. The overcrowded classrooms and sparse r...

               In Part II of "School: The Story of American Public Education," we explore an era of transformation from 1900 to 1950. This period saw significant changes in American Society, including developments in education, evolving attitudes toward immigration, and challenges to equity and inclusion in public schools. At the heart of this historical narrative lies the pervasive belief that education is the gateway to opportunity and progress. As articulated in the quote, "Education as the ticket to the best America had to offer," the prevailing sentiment was one of hope and aspiration, viewing education not merely as a means of acquiring knowledge but as a powerful tool for individual advancement and societal betterment. Indeed, education represented the embodiment of the American dream, offering pathways to upward mobility and the realization of one's fullest potential.   Immigrants and Education Central to the narrative of Ameri...

Embarking on the exploration of Part I of our reading journey has been a riveting experience, unveiling the historical evolution of public education in the United States. As a group, we engaged in discussions and ranked words, phrases, and sentences that encapsulated the complexities of the common school system. This reflection delves into the key themes that emerged, considering the impact of compromise, societal divisions, and personal experiences within the context of public education. Compromise: A Cornerstone of Common School Development Our group unanimously ranked the word 'compromise' as the most pivotal in understanding the roots of the common school system. The intricate dance of compromise unfolded during the 1850s when a surge of immigrant Roman Catholics entered the nation, necessitating a shared public school system. The challenges of different religions and anti-Irish sentiments led to protests and confrontations, forcing adjustments and compromises. The idea...

                 Hello, I am Katherine Aybar, a senior at NJCU, majoring in Chemistry, and set to graduate in May with a Bachelor’s of Science. I was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, and my literacy journey began in elementary school with the introduction of “Libro Nacho,” a pivotal book that laid the foundation for my reading and writing skills. Initially, I was reluctant towards reading and writing. However, my parents’ unwavering support and encouragement fueled my academic pursuits. I have early memories of dedicated homework sessions upon returning home from school, showcasing my commitment to learning both inside and outside the classroom. Engaging in “teacher and students” play with my cousins allowed me to reinforce my own understanding of subjects, particularly math, which is my preferred domain. The trajectory of my literacy development took a significant turn when I moved to the United States, where I faced the cha...