AISNE’s Students of Color Middle School Conference

On a Saturday in March, six Carroll Middle School students attended AISNE’s (Association of Independent Schools in New England) Middle School Students of Color Conference at The Fessenden School. AISNE created this conference to recognize the experiences of students of color in independent schools. Students, in grades 6-8 from many independent schools, gathered in an atmosphere where they were the majority, which is not typical in most of their schools. Through speakers, conferences, and group activities, students learned important lessons about building self-confidence, community, and leadership skills.

The morning began with comedian and workshop facilitator, Corey Manning, who used a mix of comedy and personal stories to foster awareness of the challenges and choices faced by students of color. Then students went into workshop groups where some played the Indian sport Kho-Kho, mastered the Michael Jackson’s Thriller dance in Hip Hop Dancing, or learned some moves in Salsa Dancing. After reconvening as a whole group, students split into affinity groups to discuss issues specific to the group with whom they identify. These sessions elicited thoughtful discussions and aimed to raise awareness of each particular group’s feelings in regards to the way others perceive and treat them.

In the afternoon workshops, students again joined together for an amazing Hip Hop performance by the group, Phunk Phenomenon. Their high-energy performance encourages individuals to speak out and be proud of their unique voices, and shows how Hip Hop can bridge cultures and communities. Two of our students had the chance to go on stage with the group and dance to a modernized version of the 90’s dance hit, Electric Slide. Students then heard some closing remarks and viewed a slide show depicting the day’s events.

The enthusiastic responses from Carroll’s Middle School students demonstrate the value of participating in this special day. Having the opportunity to see a variety of people made the day memorable for one student who liked talking about how she felt about “diversity in our school and everywhere.” Other students really enjoyed the speaker, Corey Manning, as well as taking the Hip Hop class. One student could not quite decide about what she liked best between talking in the affinity group, listening to Corey Manning, and meeting new people. She settled on liking “everything!” All in all, the day was a definite success.