301+ Best Ruby Bridges Project Ideas to Empower Young Minds

Explore creative Ruby Bridges project ideas to help students learn about her bravery and the history of the Civil Rights Movement. Perfect for engaging and educational activities!

What would you do if you had to walk through an angry crowd just to go to school? Ruby Bridges faced this challenge at only six years old. In 1960, she became the first Black student to integrate an all-white school in New Orleans. She walked into William Frantz Elementary School alone, protected by federal marshals, while people shouted at her.

At that time, schools in the South were still segregated, even though the Supreme Court ruled against it in Brown v. Board of Education (1954). Many white families refused to accept integration. Ruby’s bravery helped change history. She showed the world that education should be for everyone.

Today, Ruby Bridges is a symbol of courage and equality. Her story is taught in schools to inspire young minds. Yet, even now, some schools still struggle with racial inequality. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, about 19 million students attend racially isolated schools. This shows that Ruby’s fight is not over.

By studying her story, students can learn about justice, resilience, and leadership. This blog will explore 301+ powerful Ruby Bridges project ideas to help educators and students engage with her legacy in creative and meaningful ways.

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Is Ruby Bridges Still Alive in 2025?

Yes, Ruby Bridges is still alive as of 2025. Born on September 8, 1954, Ruby Bridges is currently 70 years old. She continues to be a significant figure in the civil rights movement and education reform.

What Did Ruby Bridges Like to Do for Fun?

As a child, Ruby Bridges enjoyed activities like jumping rope, climbing trees, and playing softball. These simple pleasures helped her maintain a sense of normalcy during a challenging time in her life.

Major Accomplishments of Ruby Bridges

Ruby Bridges is best known for her monumental role in desegregating public schools in the United States. Here are three of her most significant accomplishments:

First African American Child to Integrate an All-White School: In 1960, at just six years old, Ruby became the first African American student to attend the all-white William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans.
Civil Rights Symbol: Ruby’s bravery became a powerful symbol of the civil rights movement, helping to break racial barriers in education.
Ruby Bridges Foundation: Ruby founded the Ruby Bridges Foundation to promote tolerance, raise awareness about injustice, and inspire positive change through education.

How to Contact Ruby Bridges

If you’d like to contact Ruby Bridges, you can reach out through the Ruby Bridges Foundation. The foundation works to promote tolerance, improve educational opportunities, and continue Ruby’s mission to create lasting change. Visit their official website for contact details and more information.

What is Ruby Bridges’ Favorite Color?

Ruby Bridges’ favorite color is not widely documented, as her story and legacy are more focused on her monumental role in civil rights and education. However, her impact on the world is far more important than personal preferences.

301 Inspiring Ruby Bridges Project Ideas to Empower Young Minds

Here are 301 powerful Ruby Bridges project ideas categorized into different themes to help students engage with her legacy meaningfully.

Art & Creativity Projects

Ruby Bridges Portrait – Draw or paint a portrait of Ruby Bridges.
Historical Collage – Create a collage with images and quotes related to her journey.
Illustrated Storybook – Write and illustrate a short story about her life.
Timeline Poster – Design a visual timeline of key events in her life.
Civil Rights Mural – Paint a mural highlighting Ruby Bridges and other activists.
Inspirational Quote Poster – Design a poster with her most famous quotes.
3D Model of William Frantz School – Create a model of the school she attended.
Commemorative Stamp Design – Design a postage stamp honoring Ruby Bridges.
“A Day in Her Shoes” Comic Strip – Create a comic strip showcasing her experiences.
Photo Essay on Integration – Compile and analyze photos related to school integration.

Writing & Research Projects

Biography Report – Write a detailed report on Ruby Bridges’ life and impact.
Letter to Ruby Bridges – Write a letter expressing admiration and questions.
Poem About Her Journey – Compose a poem about her courage.
Newspaper Article from 1960 – Write a historical article on her first school day.
Comparison Essay – Compare Ruby Bridges with other civil rights figures.
Civil Rights Movement Research Paper – Explore her role in the movement.
Diary Entry from Ruby’s Perspective – Write a journal entry as if you were Ruby.
Future of Equality Essay – Predict how Ruby Bridges’ legacy will influence the future.
Fictional Short Story on Segregation – Write a fictional account inspired by her life.
Interview Simulation – Imagine interviewing Ruby Bridges and write the dialogue.

STEM & Technology Projects

Interactive Timeline (Using Canva or Google Slides) – Design a digital timeline of her life.
Podcast Episode – Record a discussion on her impact.
Ruby Bridges Trivia Game – Create a quiz game about her life.
Website on School Integration – Design a website educating others about school desegregation.
Data Analysis on Segregation Trends – Analyze school integration statistics over time.
AI-Powered Civil Rights Chatbot – Develop a chatbot that answers questions about Ruby Bridges.
Virtual Tour of 1960 New Orleans – Create an interactive Google Earth project.
3D Printing a Ruby Bridges Statue – Design and print a model honoring her.
Coding a Civil Rights Timeline App – Develop a simple educational app.
School Integration Infographic – Use Canva to create an informative infographic.

Drama & Performance Projects

Monologue as Ruby Bridges – Perform a dramatic speech from her perspective.
Historical Skit on Desegregation – Act out a scene from her story.
Spoken Word Performance – Perform a spoken word piece on courage and change.
Podcast Interview with Ruby Bridges (Fictional) – Act out an imagined interview.
Reenactment of 1960 Protest – Stage a reenactment of the reactions to integration.
Civil Rights Play – Write and perform a short play on her impact.
News Broadcast from 1960 – Simulate a news report covering her first day of school.
Shadow Puppetry Performance – Tell her story using shadow puppets.
Theater Workshop on Empathy – Use drama to explore discrimination and courage.
Music Video on Civil Rights – Create a video with a meaningful song.

Community & Service Projects

School Assembly Presentation – Educate peers about Ruby Bridges.
Anti-Bullying Campaign Inspired by Ruby – Start a school initiative.
Book Drive for Underserved Schools – Collect and donate books on civil rights.
Diversity and Inclusion Mural – Paint a mural at school.
Community Discussion on Equality – Organize a panel discussion.
Essay Contest on Social Justice – Hold a contest in honor of her legacy.
Volunteer at a Local School – Help with literacy programs.
Petition for a Ruby Bridges Statue in Your City – Advocate for a local tribute.
Public Reading of “The Story of Ruby Bridges” – Organize a reading event.
Peace Walk for Equality – Lead a walk raising awareness of her contributions.

History and Social Studies Projects

Create a documentary on Ruby Bridges and her role in school integration.
Develop a detailed timeline of desegregation in the United States.
Write a research paper on the impact of Brown v. Board of Education.
Compare Ruby Bridges’ experience with that of other students in similar situations.
Create a map of segregated schools before and after desegregation.
Interview community members about their experiences with school integration.
Write an editorial piece arguing for the continued importance of Ruby Bridges’ legacy.
Research other prominent figures who fought for school desegregation.
Design a historical exhibit featuring key artifacts from the civil rights movement.
Create a fictional diary of a student attending a newly integrated school.

Reading and Literature Projects

Read and analyze The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles.
Compare different books on Ruby Bridges and their perspectives.
Write a book review for Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges.
Develop discussion questions for a book club focused on school integration.
Create a storyboard summarizing a book about Ruby Bridges.
Research children’s literature that discusses segregation and integration.
Write an original short story about a child experiencing school desegregation.
Analyze how Ruby Bridges is portrayed in different media sources.
Write an alternate ending to The Story of Ruby Bridges.
Create a podcast episode discussing how literature represents civil rights history.

Math and Data Analysis Projects

Analyze statistics on school segregation and integration over time.
Create graphs showing changes in school demographics since desegregation.
Compare educational opportunities in segregated versus integrated schools.
Research the funding disparities between segregated schools in the 1950s.
Conduct a survey on students’ knowledge of Ruby Bridges and civil rights.
Graph the number of desegregation cases since 1954.
Calculate the distance students had to travel due to segregation laws.
Compare the literacy rates before and after desegregation in certain states.
Research the economic impact of school segregation on communities.
Study voting patterns related to civil rights laws and school policies.

Civic Engagement and Advocacy Projects

Start a campaign to include Ruby Bridges in your school curriculum.
Write a letter to a government official about the importance of teaching civil rights history.
Organize a school event on the importance of diversity and inclusion.
Hold a debate on the progress of school integration since the 1960s.
Create a proposal for an educational program on racial equality.
Design a poster advocating for equal educational opportunities today.
Research current issues related to school segregation and propose solutions.
Develop a social media campaign spreading awareness about Ruby Bridges.
Organize a classroom discussion on modern civil rights challenges.
Write an opinion piece about how schools can continue Ruby Bridges’ legacy.

Family and Community Projects

Interview a family member about their experiences with school integration.
Host a community book reading about Ruby Bridges.
Develop a family tree tracing civil rights activism in your family.
Visit a civil rights museum and write a reflection on your experience.
Hold a family discussion about racism and school experiences.
Create a scrapbook about historical and personal experiences with integration.
Research how desegregation affected your local community.
Organize a storytelling event where elders share their experiences.
Start a neighborhood initiative to support diverse education programs.
Write a family history essay on connections to civil rights movements.

Visual and Digital Media Projects

Create an animated short film about Ruby Bridges.
Design a digital timeline showcasing major civil rights events.
Develop an interactive website about Ruby Bridges’ contributions.
Produce a YouTube video educating others about her story.
Create a series of social media posts about key moments in her life.
Make a digital scrapbook featuring newspaper clippings and photos.
Record an audiobook version of The Story of Ruby Bridges for younger students.
Design a virtual museum exhibit featuring Ruby Bridges.
Develop a QR code tour for a school display on civil rights.
Make an educational infographic comparing school segregation then and now.

Cultural and Ethical Studies Projects

Discuss how Ruby Bridges’ experience shaped discussions on race in America.
Analyze how different cultures approach school segregation issues.
Research global struggles for equal education and compare them to Ruby’s story.
Examine ethical arguments for and against forced integration policies.
Explore how historical segregation impacts modern education disparities.
Study the psychological effects of discrimination on young children.
Create a presentation on the ethical implications of segregation.
Compare Ruby Bridges’ experience with other child activists in history.
Explore how media representation of civil rights has changed over time.
Study modern policies that aim to correct past segregation injustices.

Leadership and Personal Growth Projects

Write a speech on how young people can make a difference like Ruby Bridges.
Create a personal action plan for promoting diversity in your community.
Develop a mentorship program inspired by her story.
Organize a leadership workshop on standing up for justice.
Reflect on how Ruby Bridges’ bravery can apply to personal challenges.
Research and present on other child leaders who changed history.
Keep a journal on ways to promote inclusion in daily life.
Write a personal mission statement inspired by her courage.
Design a leadership program based on civil rights activism.
Explore how standing up for justice requires resilience and determination.

Legacy and Reflection Projects

Create a tribute video showcasing how Ruby Bridges changed history.
Write a song about the struggles and triumphs of school desegregation.
Design a museum exhibit layout dedicated to Ruby Bridges.
Compose an open letter to future generations about equality.
Develop a mentorship guide for younger students.
Organize a panel discussion on the lasting impact of Ruby Bridges.
Build a historical database of school desegregation events.
Write a script for a school play about her experiences.
Make a documentary on the long-term effects of school desegregation.
Research how her activism continues to influence education policies today.

Commemoration and Tribute Projects

Create a public mural featuring Ruby Bridges and other civil rights heroes.
Organize a Ruby Bridges Day event at your school.
Design a memorial plaque honoring Ruby Bridges’ contributions.
Write a speech for a Ruby Bridges tribute event.
Create a video montage of students explaining her impact.
Develop a digital scrapbook documenting her journey.
Hold a poetry slam where students present pieces inspired by Ruby Bridges.
Write an article for the school newspaper about her legacy.
Plant a tree on campus as a symbol of equality and growth in education.
Organize an art gallery showcasing student artwork dedicated to Ruby Bridges.

Ethics and Social Justice Discussions

Debate whether school integration has truly been achieved.
Discuss how Ruby Bridges’ story applies to modern social justice issues.
Analyze the ethical dilemmas faced by people involved in desegregation.
Examine the role of media in shaping the narrative around civil rights activism.
Compare past and present reactions to school integration policies.
Research cases of modern school segregation and their causes.
Explore how systemic racism continues to impact education today.
Discuss the responsibilities of students in continuing Ruby Bridges’ legacy.
Examine how political movements have shaped education equality.
Analyze how access to education affects social mobility.

Technology and Innovation Projects

Create an augmented reality (AR) experience that immerses users in Ruby Bridges’ story.
Develop an educational mobile app that teaches students about civil rights history.
Use virtual reality (VR) to simulate a day in Ruby Bridges’ life.
Design an online timeline comparing school segregation laws before and after Ruby Bridges.
Build a website that educates users on school integration efforts around the world.
Code an interactive quiz on civil rights leaders, including Ruby Bridges.
Create a digital storytelling project using animation tools.
Develop an AI chatbot that answers questions about the civil rights movement.
Use data visualization tools to display statistics on school segregation.
Design an interactive map showing how segregation affected different states.

Music and Performing Arts Projects

Compose a song about Ruby Bridges’ courage.
Write a spoken word poem addressing school segregation.
Choreograph a dance inspired by the civil rights movement.
Perform a one-act play based on Ruby Bridges’ experiences.
Record a dramatic reading of speeches from civil rights leaders.
Create a musical based on Ruby Bridges’ first day of school.
Develop a soundtrack inspired by historical moments in school desegregation.
Perform an acapella rendition of civil rights-era songs.
Write and direct a short play showing Ruby Bridges’ bravery.
Create a music video that connects past civil rights struggles with modern issues.

Collaboration and Group Projects

Work with local artists to create a large-scale community mural.
Collaborate with younger students to teach them about Ruby Bridges.
Partner with another school to host a virtual discussion on integration.
Work with a local museum to develop a civil rights exhibit.
Organize a pen-pal exchange with students in a historically significant location.
Plan a student-led forum on the impact of segregation.
Work with teachers to create a special curriculum module on Ruby Bridges.
Conduct a peer-to-peer workshop on diversity and inclusion.
Organize a community essay contest about school integration.
Collaborate with a local theater group to perform a play on her story.

Final Reflection and Personal Growth Projects

Write a letter to your future self about what Ruby Bridges’ story means to you.
Create a video diary reflecting on your learning journey.
Develop a vision board for how you can contribute to social change.
Write a personal essay about a time you stood up for something you believed in.
Create a bucket list of actions you can take to promote equality.
Start a blog documenting your research and thoughts on Ruby Bridges’ legacy.
Keep a gratitude journal focusing on the opportunities that exist today thanks to pioneers like Ruby Bridges.
Host a discussion with friends and family on what courage means to them.
Write a motivational speech encouraging others to be advocates for justice.
Develop a personal action plan to fight discrimination in your school or community.
Share your favorite lesson from Ruby Bridges’ story and how it has changed your perspective.

Advanced Research and Analysis Projects

Research how Ruby Bridges’ story is taught in different countries.
Analyze media coverage of school integration from the 1960s to today.
Study the psychological effects of racism on young children.
Investigate Supreme Court cases related to school integration.
Compare education systems before and after desegregation.
Write a research paper on how racial bias still affects education today.
Analyze how housing segregation affects school demographics.
Research the connection between civil rights laws and modern school policies.
Investigate the impact of implicit bias on education.
Compare Ruby Bridges’ story with Malala Yousafzai’s fight for education.

Community Engagement and Advocacy Projects

Organize a local awareness march for educational equality.
Start a scholarship fund in honor of Ruby Bridges.
Host a book club discussing Ruby Bridges’ legacy.
Create an online petition for naming a school after Ruby Bridges.
Volunteer at an underfunded school in your community.
Host a panel discussion on school segregation today.
Organize a read-aloud event for The Story of Ruby Bridges.
Raise funds for organizations that promote equal education.
Create a peer-mentoring program inspired by Ruby Bridges.
Organize a storytelling event where elders share their experiences with integration.

Historical Comparisons and Perspective Projects

Compare Ruby Bridges’ experiences with those of the Little Rock Nine.
Create a parallel timeline showing segregation laws in different states.
Study international school integration efforts and compare them with the U.S.
Write a fictional journal from the perspective of one of Ruby Bridges’ classmates.
Research other children who played major roles in civil rights movements.
Compare how school integration happened in the North vs. the South.
Study the role of educators in desegregation.
Analyze the reactions of parents during school desegregation.
Research the impact of white flight on school demographics.
Compare Ruby Bridges’ experience to modern-day student protests for equal rights.

Creative Writing and Storytelling Projects

Write a letter from the perspective of Ruby Bridges’ teacher.
Create an alternate history where segregation was never abolished—what would schools look like?
Write a poem from the perspective of a bystander in 1960.
Imagine Ruby Bridges writing a letter to her younger self—what advice would she give?
Write a children’s book inspired by her courage.
Create a first-person narrative from the perspective of a protester outside her school.
Write a fictional account of a modern-day student experiencing school discrimination.
Compose a screenplay about Ruby Bridges’ life.
Create a short film reenacting her first day of school.
Write an essay on the power of one person to create change.

STEM and Innovation Projects

Develop a coding project that educates users about school segregation.
Analyze how technology is helping bridge racial education gaps.
Create a data visualization showing changes in school demographics over time.
Build a virtual museum exhibit on civil rights history.
Use GIS mapping to study school segregation patterns.
Study how transportation access affects school integration.
Develop a machine learning project analyzing civil rights speeches.
Compare literacy rates before and after desegregation using statistics.
Study how social media is used for modern activism.
Build a web-based timeline tracking key events in education equality.

Theater, Music, and Performance Art Projects

Create a monologue from Ruby Bridges’ mother’s perspective.
Develop a spoken word piece about segregation in schools.
Write a song about the bravery of children in civil rights history.
Organize a flash mob performance dedicated to civil rights awareness.
Perform a musical interpretation of Ruby Bridges’ journey.
Act out a courtroom scene debating desegregation laws.
Write and perform a dramatic reading of her first day.
Compose a classical music piece inspired by civil rights struggles.
Choreograph a dance symbolizing the fight for equality.
Create a puppet show teaching younger students about her story.

Modern Connections and Social Awareness Projects

Study the impact of social media activism on modern civil rights movements.
Create a YouTube documentary comparing past and present school segregation.
Develop a podcast episode interviewing educators on diversity in schools.
Research racial disparities in school discipline policies.
Study how implicit bias affects teacher expectations.
Compare access to Advanced Placement (AP) classes by race.
Research how dress codes and hair policies disproportionately affect Black students.
Study school funding inequalities in different districts.
Create a proposal to improve diversity and inclusion in your school.
Investigate the role of affirmative action in education today.

Leadership and Personal Development Projects

Start a leadership initiative promoting diversity in education.
Write a personal essay on standing up for what’s right.
Organize a leadership workshop for younger students.
Research how young activists today are inspired by Ruby Bridges.
Create a guidebook for students on how to be an ally for diversity.
Write a motivational speech about overcoming adversity.
Mentor a younger student on the importance of equal education.
Start a diversity club at your school.
Create an action plan for improving racial inclusivity in your school.
Develop a leadership program based on historical activists.

Interactive and Multimedia Projects

Design a board game based on Ruby Bridges’ experiences.
Develop an escape room challenge with a civil rights theme.
Create a virtual reality simulation of walking in Ruby Bridges’ footsteps.
Make an educational animation about the fight for school integration.
Develop a digital comic strip about her journey.
Create a TikTok series explaining key moments in her life.
Make a stop-motion film reenacting historical events.
Design an infographic showing the effects of desegregation.
Develop an online quiz testing knowledge on school segregation.
Create a social media campaign spreading awareness about Ruby Bridges.

Final Reflection and Legacy Projects

Write a journal entry reflecting on what Ruby Bridges’ story means to you.
Develop a class pledge promoting diversity and inclusion.
Write an essay on how future generations can continue her work.
Organize a tribute event celebrating her accomplishments.
Make a video interviewing students on their thoughts about her legacy.
Create a digital time capsule about modern racial equality efforts.
Research and write about unsung heroes of the civil rights movement.
Develop a public service announcement about equal education rights.
Create a personal mission statement inspired by her bravery.
Share a final project with the community showcasing what you’ve learned.

What is the Purpose of Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day?

The purpose of Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day is to honor the bravery and courage of Ruby Bridges, who, at just six years old, became the first African American child to attend an all-white school in New Orleans in 1960.

This day serves as a reminder of the challenges Ruby faced and the importance of equality in education. It encourages students to reflect on the values of tolerance, unity, and justice, while promoting a positive and inclusive school environment.

What Did People Do When Ruby Bridges Went to School?

When Ruby Bridges first went to school, she faced extreme hostility from some people. Many protested outside the school, shouting and making threats. Ruby was escorted to school by federal marshals for her safety.

Inside the school, she was isolated in a classroom with her teacher, Mrs. Henry, as other students and parents kept their children home. Despite the challenges, Ruby remained determined and continued attending school, breaking racial barriers for future generations.

What Does Ruby Bridges Do on a Daily Basis?

Today, Ruby Bridges works as a speaker, advocate, and founder of the Ruby Bridges Foundation. She speaks about the importance of tolerance, racial equality, and education.

Her foundation helps promote these values by providing educational resources and inspiring young people to create positive change. Ruby also works to encourage empathy, respect, and understanding among different communities.

What Does Ruby Bridges Like to Do for Fun?

As a child, Ruby Bridges enjoyed activities like playing jump rope, climbing trees, and participating in sports like softball. These activities allowed her to have fun and experience the simple joys of childhood, despite the challenges she faced in her young life.

Today, Ruby enjoys spending time with her family and continuing her work to inspire others through her experiences and activism.

45 Best Ruby Bridges Lesson Plan 2nd Grade Ideas

Looking for engaging Ruby Bridges lesson plan ideas for 2nd grade? These 45 creative and educational activities will help students learn about courage, equality, and history in a fun and meaningful way!

1. Introduction to Ruby Bridges

Activity: Show a picture book about Ruby Bridges, such as The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles, and discuss her significance in history.

2. Timeline of Ruby Bridges’ Life

Activity: Create a classroom timeline that includes important events from Ruby’s life, focusing on her walk to school and integration into the all-white school.

3. Ruby Bridges Vocabulary Words

Activity: Introduce key terms like “segregation,” “integration,” “bravery,” and “civil rights.” Have students use the words in sentences.

4. Drawing Ruby Bridges

Activity: After reading a story about Ruby Bridges, have students draw their own interpretations of her walking to school.

5. Understanding Segregation

Activity: Use simple definitions and pictures to explain the concept of segregation and how it affected children like Ruby.

6. Ruby’s Bravery

Activity: Discuss what it means to be brave. Have students write or draw about a time when they were brave.

7. Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day

Activity: Organize a “Walk to School Day” to honor Ruby. Discuss her walk to school and its importance to equality and justice.

8. A Letter to Ruby Bridges

Activity: Have students write a letter to Ruby Bridges telling her how they feel about her courage.

9. Classroom Discussion on Courage

Activity: Lead a class discussion about what courage means, using Ruby Bridges as an example.

10. Character Traits of Ruby Bridges

Activity: Have students brainstorm and list character traits of Ruby Bridges (brave, strong, determined).

11. Ruby Bridges Reading Comprehension

Activity: After reading a story about Ruby, ask students questions to check their comprehension and understanding of the topic.

12. Ruby Bridges and Equality

Activity: Teach students the importance of equality in schools and communities, and discuss how Ruby Bridges’ actions helped pave the way for change.

13. Ruby Bridges Word Search

Activity: Create a word search with words related to Ruby Bridges, such as “freedom,” “courage,” and “school.”

14. Classroom Poster on Tolerance

Activity: Have students create a classroom poster promoting tolerance, inspired by Ruby Bridges’ journey.

15. Ruby Bridges Read-Aloud

Activity: Read a biography about Ruby Bridges aloud to the class, then discuss key points and lessons.

16. Diversity and Inclusion Discussion

Activity: Lead a conversation about the importance of diversity and inclusion in schools today, referencing Ruby Bridges’ role.

17. Ruby Bridges’ Walk to School Simulation

Activity: Create a safe, supervised walk around the school to honor Ruby Bridges’ bravery.

18. Ruby Bridges Poetry

Activity: Have students write short poems expressing their thoughts on Ruby’s courage and journey.

19. Bravery Books

Activity: Read a collection of books about brave historical figures, including Ruby Bridges, and discuss the common traits they share.

20. Courageous Characters Collage

Activity: Create a collage of courageous people from history, with Ruby Bridges as the centerpiece.

21. Ruby Bridges Quote Wall

Activity: Display inspiring quotes by Ruby Bridges in the classroom and have students reflect on them.

22. Discussing Civil Rights

Activity: Simplify the concept of civil rights for second graders, discussing how Ruby Bridges helped bring about change in America.

23. Ruby Bridges and Her Family

Activity: Talk about the role Ruby’s family played in her journey, and how they supported her.

24. Creating a Ruby Bridges Book

Activity: Have students work together to create a class book about Ruby Bridges, where each student writes and illustrates a page.

25. Ruby Bridges Character Sketch

Activity: Have students create a character sketch of Ruby Bridges, noting her physical characteristics and personality traits.

26. Ruby Bridges “I Am” Poem

Activity: Students write an “I Am” poem from Ruby Bridges’ perspective, focusing on her feelings, challenges, and dreams.

27. Walk to School Day Reflection

Activity: After participating in a Walk to School Day, have students reflect in writing or drawing about their experience.

28. Ruby Bridges Social Studies Lesson

Activity: Teach students about the Civil Rights Movement in a simplified manner, explaining how Ruby Bridges’ actions fit into the broader movement.

29. Exploring the Power of One Person

Activity: Discuss how Ruby Bridges, as one young girl, made a big difference in history and how each person can have an impact.

30. Ruby Bridges and the Classroom Community

Activity: Have students discuss how Ruby Bridges’ story can inspire them to build a positive and inclusive classroom community.

31. Group Project on Historical Figures

Activity: Assign groups of students to research and present on other historical figures who contributed to civil rights, such as Martin Luther King Jr. or Rosa Parks.

32. Ruby Bridges as a Hero

Activity: Define what makes someone a hero and discuss how Ruby Bridges fits that definition.

33. Ruby Bridges’ Impact on Modern Education

Activity: Discuss how Ruby Bridges’ courage affected schools today, making them more inclusive.

34. Ruby Bridges’ Walk and the Media

Activity: Introduce students to the role of the media in telling Ruby Bridges’ story and discuss how it impacted public awareness.

35. Ruby Bridges and the Concept of Fairness

Activity: Have students discuss what fairness means and how Ruby Bridges was fighting for fairness when she walked to school.

36. Ruby Bridges Word Scramble

Activity: Create a word scramble using key terms related to Ruby Bridges and civil rights, like “equality,” “freedom,” and “justice.”

37. Reflection on Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day

Activity: After participating in Walk to School Day, have students write or draw about what they learned from the experience.

38. Ruby Bridges and Peace

Activity: Discuss how Ruby Bridges helped create peaceful change in her community and how students can promote peace in their own lives.

39. Ruby Bridges “If I Were Ruby” Writing Prompt

Activity: Have students write a short story imagining they are Ruby Bridges and describing what her experience might have been like.

40. Ruby Bridges Chalk Art

Activity: Use sidewalk chalk to draw inspiring images or quotes related to Ruby Bridges’ journey and message of equality.

41. Ruby Bridges and the Law

Activity: Discuss how Ruby Bridges’ school attendance helped challenge and change laws that segregated public schools.

42. Ruby Bridges Role Play

Activity: Have students act out different parts of Ruby Bridges’ walk to school to better understand her experience.

43. Ruby Bridges and the Community

Activity: Talk about how communities can come together to make change, just as Ruby’s story brought about a greater sense of unity and justice.

44. Celebrating Ruby Bridges’ Courage

Activity: Celebrate Ruby Bridges’ bravery by holding a class ceremony to acknowledge her impact on history.

45. Ruby Bridges Today

Activity: Have students write about what Ruby Bridges might be doing today and how they think her legacy still affects them.

Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day Activities

Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day is a special event that honors Ruby Bridges’ courage as she walked to an all-white school at the age of six, helping to desegregate public schools in the United States.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to celebrate bravery, equality, and inclusion. Below are some engaging and educational activities for students to participate in for Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day:

Classroom Walk to School Simulation

Activity: Organize a “mini” walk to school around the playground or school grounds. Discuss Ruby Bridges’ brave walk, and explain why her action was so significant. Students can walk in pairs or small groups, reflecting on how Ruby’s walk helped to change history.

Bravery and Courage Discussion

Activity: Before the walk, hold a class discussion about bravery. Ask students what it means to be brave and how Ruby Bridges showed bravery. Discuss how students can show bravery in their own lives.

Make Walk to School Signs

Activity: Have students create their own signs or posters for the walk, inspired by messages of equality and kindness, such as “Everyone Belongs” or “Bravery for All.” These can be carried during the event to remind students of Ruby’s courage.

Ruby Bridges Story Time

Activity: Before the walk, read The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles or another age-appropriate book about her life. Discuss the significance of the walk to school that Ruby made, and how it paved the way for desegregation.

Create a Walk to School Path

Activity: Inside the classroom or in the hallway, create a symbolic path or timeline that marks important moments in Ruby’s journey. Students can “walk” the path while learning about the milestones in Ruby’s life and civil rights history.

Ruby Bridges Reflection Journals

Activity: After the walk, have students reflect on their own feelings and experiences in a journal. Ask them to write or draw how they felt walking, and what it might have been like for Ruby Bridges as she walked to school each day.

Courageous Character Collage

Activity: As a group, create a collage of “courageous characters,” including Ruby Bridges and other historical figures who helped create change. Students can add pictures, quotes, and brief descriptions of each person’s impact.

Walk and Talk: Buddy System

Activity: Pair students up as “buddies” for the walk, emphasizing the idea of supporting and looking out for each other, much like Ruby Bridges was supported by her family and community. While walking, discuss the importance of friendship and kindness.

Ruby Bridges Quote Reflection

Activity: Before or after the walk, share a powerful quote from Ruby Bridges or her family, such as, “Don’t follow the path. Go where there is no path and begin the trail.” Ask students to reflect on what this means and how they can apply it to their own lives.

Diversity and Inclusion Discussion

Activity: Lead a class discussion about diversity and inclusion. Have students share what makes each of them unique and how diversity is celebrated in their school and community. Tie it back to Ruby’s journey of fighting for equal rights.

Art Activity: Walking Shoes

Activity: Have students decorate a pair of paper shoes to represent the shoes Ruby Bridges wore when she walked to school. Each shoe can include messages of hope, equality, or freedom. Display the shoes as a visual reminder of the event.

Classroom Unity Circle

Activity: After the walk, gather students in a circle and share how they can continue Ruby Bridges’ legacy of promoting equality and kindness. This can be a reflection time where students express how they can make a difference in their school or community.

Role Play Ruby Bridges’ Walk

Activity: Set up a dramatic role-play where students can act out Ruby Bridges’ walk to school. One student can play Ruby, while others can play the supportive figures in her life. Discuss the challenges Ruby faced and how the role-play helped students understand her courage.

Music and Movement: Walk to School Song

Activity: Create a song or chant related to walking to school in honor of Ruby Bridges. Students can come up with their own lyrics celebrating equality and bravery. Have a small performance after the walk.

Thank You Letter to Ruby Bridges

Activity: After participating in the Walk to School Day, have students write a thank-you letter to Ruby Bridges, expressing what they learned from her story and how it has inspired them to be more inclusive and brave in their own lives.

Final Words

Ruby Bridges proved that one child can change the world. Her bravery in 1960 helped break down barriers in education. But the fight for equality continues today. Many schools still struggle with segregation and unfair policies. That is why learning from Ruby’s story is more important than ever.

These 301+ project ideas offer creative ways to honor her legacy. They encourage students to think about history, fairness, and how they can make a difference. Whether through art, writing, or activism, every project helps keep Ruby’s message alive.

Education should be a right for all, not a privilege for a few. Ruby Bridges believed that. Her courage reminds us that even young voices matter. Today, students can carry her message forward. They can stand up for fairness, kindness, and justice.

Now, it’s your turn. Explore these project ideas. Choose one that speaks to you. Share Ruby’s story with others. Because when we learn from history, we can build a better future. Ruby Bridges walked so future generations could run. Let’s continue her journey together.

Tom Latham

Meet Tom Latham from Good Project Ideas! He’s passionate about sparking creativity and making learning fun for all. Tom loves crafting engaging projects that inspire curiosity and hands-on exploration. Join him in bringing ideas to life!