Throughout the year, the Rendell Center delivers special programs that are based on fresh content, current events and civic holidays.

Black History Month Read Aloud Cover Image

Black History Month

February 23-27, 2026

Join The Rendell Center, ABOTA, The Pennsylvania Bar Association, and The Pennsylvania Supreme Court Historical Society as we celebrate Black History Month with a special Read Aloud program.

We’re excited to invite you to a Black History Month read-aloud that celebrates the voices, stories, and achievements of prominent African-American leaders while inspiring young learners to understand and value our shared history. This year’s featured books are:

  • ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez
  • I am Ruby Bridges by Ruby Bridges
  • Before She was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome

What to Expect:

Volunteer lawyers and judges will virtually visit classrooms to read selected children’s books that honor the influential Black leaders whose contributions have shaped our nation’s history, leadership, and democratic ideals.

  • Each session lasts up to 30 minutes
  • Ideal for students in grades 1–5
  • Includes interactive discussions where students can ask questions, reflect on what they heard, and share their thoughts

For Students, This Experience:

  • Builds historical knowledge by introducing students to the impact made by important Black American leaders throughout US History.
  • Connects past to present by helping students see how the bravery and actions of our nation’s heroes shape their lives today.
  • Fosters critical thinking by exploring the meaning of justice and the responsibilities of good citizenship
  • Promotes literacy through engaging, age-appropriate stories

For Lawyers and Judges, This Is an Opportunity To:

  • Give back: Inspire the next generation with your knowledge and passion
  • Make an impact: Help young students understand the role of law in everyday life
  • Engage meaningfully: Use carefully chosen books to foster thoughtful conversations on legal themes in a fun, age-appropriate way

Join Us For This Exciting Annual Civics Learning Event!

Register below

Consolidated Logos (ABOTA-PA Bar-SCOPA)

Register as a Lawyer

Click Here to register to read to a classroom

Register as a Teacher

Click Here to register your classroom

Read Alouds selected for Black History Month

ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez
I am Ruby Bridges by Ruby Bridges
Before She was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome

What Teachers Have Said about the Read Aloud Program:

“Thank you very much for this special opportunity. We were awestruck by the presenters.”

Enissa Borine

Wayne Elementary

“Thank you so much for such an exciting
story time.”

Tarsha Corbitt

Norwood Elementary

What Lawyers Have Said about the Read Aloud Program:

“Thank you for allowing me to participate today – the students were wonderful and asked great questions!”

Judge Caroline Baker

“I was really looking forward to my reading and I’m glad I did it. The experience was even better than I anticipated. I’d love to do it again.”

Bob Cooper