What does it take to be a pioneer for change? In 1960, Ruby Bridges made history as the first African American student to desegregate her all-white elementary school. Her courage and determination became a symbol of the Civil Rights Movement and an inspiration for generations to come.
In this Learning Adventure, students will take a virtual field trip to experience Ruby’s story firsthand and reflect on what it means to be a changemaker. This activity is perfect for Black History Month, Women’s History Month, SEL lessons, and social studies or ELA units.
For quick access, log in with Clever or Classlink.
Elementary Level
3.11: The student will explain the contributions of selected individuals to the United States, including those who fought for civil rights such as Ruby Bridges.
Teachers appreciate this Kai XR Learning Adventure for its ability to blend historical events with meaningful social-emotional learning. Ruby’s story inspires students to think critically and reflect on their own ability to make a difference.
More reasons why teachers love this adventure:
Supports Common Core ELA, NCSS, and state standards for writing and social studies.
Students engage with Ruby's journey through a virtual field trip and reflective writing.
Ideal for Black History Month, Women’s History Month, social studies classes or lessons on SEL and changemakers.
Develops writing, historical analysis, and critical thinking skills while encouraging empathy and self-reflection.
Teachers enjoy their first five lessons free on Kai XR! Explore the Ruby Bridges Learning Adventure and other engaging Learning Adventures designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding in your classroom.
Add this Adventure to get started with your students.
For quick access, log in with Clever or Classlink.
The Ruby Bridges Learning Adventure is an interactive, virtual lesson that takes students back to 1960 to explore Ruby Bridges’ historic journey as the first African American student to desegregate an all-white elementary school. It combines multimedia content, a virtual field trip, and reflective writing to inspire students and teach about courage and social change.
This Adventure encourages empathy and self-reflection by helping students connect with Ruby Bridges’ experience. It challenges students to think about the courage required to stand up for change and inspires them to reflect on how they can contribute to their communities.
Simply log in with Clever or Classlink for easy access. Teachers, once logged in, click on Add to My Adventures to make this Adventure yours.
Yes, teachers enjoy their first five lessons for free on Kai XR, including this Adventure and other engaging resources.. Paid school subscriptions provide additional access to state standards-aligned content.
The Ruby Bridges Adventure is designed to be completed in approximately 15 minutes, making it a flexible option for classroom schedules or as part of a larger lesson.
Students can participate using tablets, laptops, or desktops. Students aged 13 and older can enhance their experience with VR headsets, such as a Meta Quest.
The Virtual Field Trip allows students to experience what it was like for Ruby Bridges to walk into her school amidst immense challenges. This firsthand perspective fosters empathy and helps students understand the significance of her bravery.
Yes, the Ruby Bridges Learning Adventure is tailored for elementary students but can also be adapted for middle schoolers. Its focus on historical understanding, critical thinking, and SEL makes it relevant for a range of age groups.
Ruby Bridges’ story highlights the struggle for racial equality and the role of young individuals in the Civil Rights Movement, making it ideal for Black History Month. Additionally, her story as a courageous young girl resonates during Women’s History Month, emphasizing resilience and the power of individuals to create change.