OtterKnow Kids Encyclopedia

Ruby Bridges is a wonderful hero who was incredibly brave when she was just six years old! In 1960, she became the first Black student to go to an all-white school in New Orleans. Even though some people were not kind, Ruby walked into her new school every day with a big smile. Her courage helped change unfair rules and made the world a better place!

Ruby Bridges was a little girl who lived in New Orleans. A long time ago, the laws were very unfair, and children with different skin colors had to go to different schools. Ruby was chosen to be the very first Black child to attend a school called William Frantz Elementary. Every morning, four tall men called federal marshals walked Ruby to school to keep her safe. Ruby always wore her favorite pretty dress and carried her lunchbox.

Inside the school, Ruby had a wonderful teacher named Mrs. Henry. For a whole year, Ruby was the only student in her class, but she and Mrs. Henry had a great time learning together. Ruby loved to read and do her schoolwork every day. Even though some people outside were not kind, Ruby stayed strong and brave. She showed the world that kids can be strong and help change unfair rules!