This Promise of Change: One Girl’s Story in the Fight for School Equality

In "This Promise of Change: One Girl’s Story in the Fight for School Equality," the narrative unfolds around Jo Ann Allen Boyce, a fourteen-year-old who, along with eleven other African-American students, courageously integrated Clinton High School in Tennessee in 1956. This pivotal moment in history, occurring even before the famed Little Rock Nine, sees Jo Ann grappling with the pressures of being a spokesperson amidst escalating racial tensions provoked by external agitators. As a beacon of tolerance and bridge-building, her personal journey illuminates the struggles and resilience required to challenge systemic barriers in education. Published on January 8, 2019, this powerful book is not only a homage to a young leader's fight for school equality but also serves as an essential read for middle-school students exploring themes of education equity and racial justice. Celebrated with multiple accolades, including the Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor and the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for Nonfiction, Jo Ann's story encourages young readers to reflect on the impact of historical events on current social issues and inspires them to consider their own roles in continuing the fight for justice.