September 20, 2018

On September 12, 2018, Cornelia Connelly School of the Holy Child in Anaheim, CA, had the privilege to connect with author Melba Patillo Beals via Skype as part of their All-School Reads program. The All-School Reads program unites the community by having students, faculty, and staff read a book that has literary merit and delivers a strong social message.

This year’s book choice was March Forward, Girl. The author, Melba Patillo Beals, grew up in Little Rock, AK, where life for African Americans was far from just. She and her family lived in constant fear. When integration of all-white public schools was initiated, Melba was one of the “Little Rock Nine” to first integrate at Little Rock’s Central High School.

The “Little Rock Nine” were met with such opposition from the white community that they needed a military escort for their safety. Years later, Melba and the rest of the Little Rock Nine were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. In the Skype session with Cornelia Connelly School, Ms. Patillo Beals talked to the students and faculty during a special assembly where she spoke of her life experiences and faith. She engaged the students by answering their questions and encouraged them to have respect and love for everyone.

Established in 1961 by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus in Anaheim, CA, Cornelia Connelly School is the only independent, college-preparatory Catholic high school for girls. Cornelia Connelly School is part of the Holy Child Network of Schools that centers on developing mature persons capable of making choices which enrich their lives and contribute to the lives of others.