Ridgewood High School's "Making a Difference" Speaker Series concluded with a final presentation on June 7th by Ms. Mary Beth Tinker. Ms. Tinker discussed her commitment to advocacy of student rights and reflected on her experience as a student activist. Mary Beth Tinker was part of a small group of students in Des Moines, Iowa who made history by wearing black armbands to school to mourn the dead in the Vietnam War and call for a Christmas truce. After being suspended for their actions, the students eventually won a landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling, with the Court declaring in 1969 that neither teachers nor students "shed their Constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate." Ms. Tinker's presentation allowed time for a Q&A with the audience, during which students were able to ask questions about the legacy of the Tinker case and make connections to students' rights today. 

The "Making a Difference" Speakers Series is a program that highlights the impact individuals can have, even in the darkest parts of our world. This presentation was made possible with the help of Social Studies teachers, Mrs. Demirjian and Mr. Muro, and department supervisor, Mr. Ferreri, along with the expertise of James Michels for this digital experience! Thank you to the ongoing support of the staff and students of the English and Social Studies departments. Please keep an eye out for future Speaker Series events!