Tulsa Public Schools students learned about what school is like in South Africa, thanks to a virtual visit from two members of the Trevor Noah Foundation.

This year, 5th graders across our district learned about the Tulsa Race Massacre and Lanier Elementary teacher, Ms. Leach incorporated Trevor Noah’s book ‘Born a Crime’ into her teaching to encourage students to discuss topics of identity, race, and racism.

Elekeana Nyirenda and Sifiso Magagula took time out of their afternoon to join students from Council Oak, Dolores Huerta, Dual Language Academy, Eisenhower International School, Hawthorne, John Hope Franklin, Lanier, Marshall, and Wayman Tisdale Fine Arts Academy to discuss life in South Africa and some of the similarities and differences when it comes to school.

“Our school year goes according to the calendar year. Schools open in January…the winter break is in June - the middle of summer your side is the middle of winter our side…Our summer break is in December,” Sifiso said.

Students also discussed connecting through various languages, classes required for students in South Africa, and how COVID impacted the education system.

We are so thankful to the Trevor Noah Foundation for speaking to our students!