The Importance of Education
4th Grade: Booker T. Washington
Life After The Civil War
While working in the coal mines one day, Booker heard about an amazing school called the Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute in Virginia. It would cost money to attend, so he worked very hard and saved his money. During this time, he collected every book he could find and stored them in a dry goods box.
Think About It
What does this tell you about how much he valued reading?
Determined Booker Earns Spot In School
To get into Hampton, Booker faced a very different kind of entrance exam compared to today’s tests. Instead of answering multiple-choice questions, he had to clean a room! A teacher checked the room with a white handkerchief to make sure there was no dirt left. Booker did an excellent job and he was accepted into Hampton.
During his time at Hampton, Booker learned many different subjects. He learned regular school stuff like reading and math. But, he also learned about farming, good manners, personal hygiene, speaking in public, and debate. He worked really hard and did so well that he graduated with honors in 1875. What’s even more impressive is that he was selected to give a speech at the graduation ceremony!
Think About It
What did Booker T. Washington have to do to accomplish his goals?
Booker Becomes a Principal
