Standing Up for Social Justice
Stan Yogi and Laura Atkins, authors of the new book Fred Korematsu Speaks Up, spoke to two 8th grade social studies classes at Claremont last week. Students learned about Fred’s courageous choices in challenging the U.S. government’s mass incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, and were able to tie the discussion to activism in their own lives. Anyone interested in learning more is invited to the book launch party taking place on Saturday, Feb. 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. at J-Sei, 1285 66th St. in Emeryville. Fred Korematsu’s daughter Karen will be speaking there, as will the authors and illustrator of the book.
Mid Year Library Report
Thank you Claremont community for your continued support of the library – it’s paying off! Our school library plays a crucial role in our efforts to help all students improve their reading skills. Thanks to you, we have continued to add current, relevant, engaging materials to our collection. Students have been taking full advantage of the offerings: year to date, check outs are up +36% over last year (3,593 vs. 2,636). Fiction and graphic novels are still the most popular, accounting for 86% of the total circulation. Nonfiction titles, about 12% of circulations, are up +58% vs. last year. You are making a measurable difference in the lives of our students. Thank you!
—Carla Riemer
Claremont Middle School Library Services