Materials
Pre-baked, small pie shells, one for each child
small bowls
assorted pie fillings in cans, assorted toppings for pies
spoons
Instructions
1. Celebrate the birthday of Mary McLeod Bethune (July 10, 1875). She devoted
her life to ensuring the right to education and freedom from discrimination
for African Americans. In 1904, she opened the Daytona Normal and
Industrial Institute for Negro Girls. Tell the children that Mary McLeod
Bethune sold pies in order to save money to start her school.
2. Ahead of time, place assorted pie fillings into small bowls and keep in the
refrigerator until ready to use. After the discussion is over, the children will
make their own pies to eat.
3. Tell them they must "purchase" their small pie shells from you by telling you
one reason why they like school. When all the children have their pie shells,
they can fill them with any pie filling. (Make sure that each bowl of filling has
at least two spoons next it.)
4. Then the children can top them as desired. Eat and enjoy!
Related poem
Mary McLeod Bethune by Patricia Murchison
Mary McLeod Bethune, the black rose of education,
She was determined to reach a nation.
Known by people everywhere,
She knew how to love and how to care.
She sold pies and sweets,
Just to make education a real treat.
With three nickels and a dime,
Education for me came right on time.
