June 25, 2025 – James Weldon Johnson, Gullah Geechee Culture, and the History of LaVilla. Thanks to the annual African American Summer Writing Institute, dozens of Team Duval students spent weeks digging into local African American history and creating curriculum that district teachers will be able to access throughout the school year.
"You often drive past places...and you have no idea what happened there, here in your own city,” said second-time participant and rising senior Jarrett Kelley. “It was an amazing experience...when it comes to getting a chance to learn about the local history right here in Jacksonville that is often overlooked.”
Kelley was among sixty high school students who conducted research and created projects highlighting local figures, places, and events. Team Duval News was there as students presented their final projects in a showcase at Matthew Gilbert Middle School. Watch this video to hear more about the impact of the institute and why teachers call it a valuable resource.