John P. Parker School Students Engage with Local History Through 2892 Miles to Go Project

John P. Parker School students learned about local history through the 2,892 Miles to Go project, a unique educational initiative highlighting their community's untold stories. By participating, students learned about the life of John P. Parker while also exploring themes of racial identity, community history, and their potential.

“We were invited to participate in this program, and our students had the incredible opportunity to learn about John P. Parker’s life and its significance to our community,” said Principal Kimberly Mack. “The project aligns with our mission to help students understand the importance of their history and its relevance today.”

Supported by the National Geographic Society, the 2,892 Miles to Go project encourages students to work with local leaders, historians, and advocates to uncover and share stories often overlooked in traditional historical narratives. For John P. Parker School, the initiative is an extension of its broader mission, prioritizing historical literacy alongside college and career readiness.

“Our school’s mission is to ensure our students are college and career-ready,” Principal Mack explained. “By visiting a college campus, specifically Northern Kentucky University, as part of this program, students begin to see themselves there. They realize that higher education is within their reach and belong there just as much as anyone.”

The project also allows students to broaden their understanding of racial identity beyond the local context. Some students conversed with local scholars about race in the Dominican Republic, gaining insights into how racial identity is understood differently in other parts of the world.

In addition to these global perspectives, students participated in workshops with local historians who taught them about Cincinnati's vital role in the Underground Railroad. These experiences enrich students' understanding of history and deepen their connection to their community.

“We start young with lessons about the Underground Railroad because it’s important for our students to understand the historical significance of this movement, especially since it’s right here in our community,” said Principal Mack. “It’s not just something they read about; it's something that happened where they live.”

The 2,892 Miles to Go project has proven informative for many students, helping them gain a stronger sense of identity and belonging. By engaging with history in such a personal way, students can see themselves as active participants in shaping the future.

“Our students come away with a much deeper sense of identity,” Principal Mack shared. “They not only learn about history, they live it. And that makes all the difference in how they see themselves and their potential.”

For John P. Parker School, the 2,892 Miles to Go initiative is more than just a project; it's a life-changing experience that helps students understand their past and connect with their community.