Meaningful Black History Month Activities for Middle School and High School

Every February, I see teachers searching for meaningful Black History Month activities that go beyond the same coloring pages, timelines, and biography reports. We want our middle school and high school students to connect with real people whose stories spark curiosity and lead to meaningful conversations. One of my favorite ways to make that happen is through student research because every biography tells a story of perseverance, leadership, creativity, or innovation. When our students discover someone whose experiences or career interests match their own, Black History Month becomes much more than another classroom assignment.

Why I Believe Black History Month Matters

Black History Month gives us an opportunity to intentionally make space for stories that deserve to be shared. While many of our students recognize a few well-known names, they are often surprised to learn just how many Black Americans have shaped literature, science, business, government, sports, music, and countless other fields. Those discoveries help our students see that history is made by people from every background who have made the decision to make a difference.

I've found that research projects create some of the best classroom conversations. You might have a student who loves basketball and becomes fascinated by an athlete's determination. Another one of your students who enjoys writing may discover an author whose books inspire a lifelong love of reading. Giving your students choices helps them find someone whose story genuinely interests them.

That's why biography research remains one of my favorite Black History Month activities for middle school and high school. Our students practice research and reading skills while learning about people whose accomplishments continue to influence our world today. By the end of the month, your class will have explored dozens of remarkable lives and shared those discoveries with one another.

Civil Rights Leaders and Activists to Research During Black History Month

When many of us think about Black History Month, civil rights leaders are often the first individuals who come to mind. Their courage and determination changed our country, but each one of them contributed in a unique way. Some organized peaceful protests. Others challenged unfair laws in court. Many devoted their lives to creating opportunities for future generations.

These biographies also help our students understand that lasting change rarely happens because of one person alone. Every movement is built by individuals who use their voices, talents, and leadership in different ways. 

Martin Luther King Jr. 

Martin Luther King Jr. led the Civil Rights Movement through nonviolent protest and powerful speeches that called for equality and justice. His leadership helped inspire major civil rights legislation. His legacy continues to encourage people around the world to stand up for fairness and compassion.

Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks became a symbol of the Civil Rights Movement when she refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her courage helped spark the Montgomery Bus Boycott and inspired countless others to challenge racial injustice.

John Lewis

John Lewis was a civil rights activist who organized sit-ins, participated in the Freedom Rides, and helped lead the historic march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma. He later served more than three decades in Congress. During that time, he continued advocating for voting rights and equality.

Claudette Colvin

At just fifteen years old, Claudette Colvin refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus months before Rosa Parks did. Although her story is less widely known, her bravery played an important role in the fight to end bus segregation.

Bryan Stevenson

Bryan Stevenson is a lawyer, author, and founder of the Equal Justice Initiative. Through his work, he has fought for criminal justice reform and helped bring national attention to issues of racial inequality and wrongful convictions.

Athletes to Research During Black History Month

Sports have the power to bring people together, but they have also been a platform for breaking barriers and inspiring change. Many Black athletes have overcome challenges both on and off the field while leaving a lasting impact on their sport. Their stories show our students that success is built through hard work, determination, and the courage to stand up for what they believe in.

Jackie Robinson

Jackie Robinson became the first Black player in Major League Baseball's modern era when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. His courage and perseverance helped break baseball's color barrier and opened doors for future generations of athletes.

Wilma Rudolph

Wilma Rudolph overcame childhood illnesses, including polio, to become one of the fastest women in the world. She won three gold medals at the 1960 Olympic Games.

Serena Williams

Serena Williams is widely considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time. She has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles during her remarkable career. She has inspired millions through her athletic achievements, as well as her advocacy for women and equal opportunities in sports.

Simone Biles

Simone Biles is the most decorated gymnast in history, earning numerous Olympic and World Championship medals. Along with her incredible accomplishments, she has encouraged important conversations about mental health and the well-being of athletes.

LeBron James

LeBron James is one of the most accomplished basketball players in NBA history. He has earned multiple championships and MVP awards throughout his career. Beyond basketball, he founded the I PROMISE School and continues to support education and opportunities for children in his community.

Writers, Poets, and Journalists to Research During Black History Month

Books, poems, essays, and newspaper articles have helped shape history just as much as speeches and laws. Black writers and journalists have documented important events, challenged injustice, celebrated culture, and shared stories that continue to influence readers today. Their work gives our students the opportunity to explore history through powerful words and personal experiences.

Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou was a poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist best known for her autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. She published numerous books and poems throughout her career. This led her to become one of the most influential literary voices of the twentieth century.

Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison was a novelist and editor whose books explored the Black experience in America through storytelling and unforgettable characters. She received both the Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize in Literature, becoming the first Black woman to earn the Nobel Prize in Literature.

James Baldwin

James Baldwin was an essayist, novelist, and playwright whose writing examined race, identity, and social justice in America. His books and essays remain widely studied for their analysis of American society and culture.

Amanda Gorman

Amanda Gorman is a poet and activist who gained international recognition after reading her poem The Hill We Climb at the 2021 presidential inauguration. She is the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history and continues to write about leadership, identity, and hope.

Ida B. Wells

Ida B. Wells was an investigative journalist, newspaper editor, and civil rights activist who exposed the horrors of lynching through her reporting. She also helped found organizations that advocated for civil rights and women's suffrage.

Scientists, Inventors, and Innovators 

Some of the world's most important discoveries and inventions came from Black scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and inventors. Their work has improved agriculture, advanced space exploration, strengthened technology, and even influenced the devices many of us use every day. 

Katherine Johnson

Katherine Johnson was a mathematician whose calculations helped NASA safely send astronauts into space and return them to Earth. Her work supported the Mercury and Apollo missions and remained essential during the early years of the U.S. space program.

Mae Jemison

Mae Jemison became the first Black woman to travel into space when she flew aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992. Before joining NASA, she worked as a physician and later founded organizations that support science education and technology.

George Washington Carver

George Washington Carver was an agricultural scientist who developed hundreds of products using crops such as peanuts, sweet potatoes, and soybeans. He also promoted farming methods that improved soil health, and he helped farmers grow crops more sustainably.

Lonnie Johnson

Lonnie Johnson is an engineer and inventor who holds more than 100 patents. He is best known for inventing the Super Soaker water toy. He has also developed technologies related to energy production and space exploration.

Gladys West

Gladys West is a mathematician whose work processing satellite data contributed to the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). Her mathematical models helped improve the accuracy of satellite mapping, making modern navigation systems possible.

Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs

Innovation isn't limited to laboratories or government offices. Many Black entrepreneurs have built successful businesses, created products, and opened doors for future generations of business owners. From beauty products to technology and fashion, these business leaders turned ideas into companies that continue to make an impact today.

Madame C. J. Walker

Madam C. J. Walker built a successful hair care company that created products specifically for Black women. She became one of the first self-made female millionaires in the United States. While doing so, she was also supporting education, charitable organizations, and civil rights causes.

Reginald F. Lewis

Reginald F. Lewis was a lawyer and businessman who became the first Black American to build a billion-dollar company. His acquisition of Beatrice International Foods made history and demonstrated the growing influence of Black entrepreneurs in corporate America.

Daymond John

Daymond John founded the clothing brand FUBU. It grew from a small startup into an internationally recognized fashion company. He is also an investor on the television show Shark Tank, where he mentors aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners.

Tristan Walker

Tristan Walker is the founder and CEO of Walker & Company Brands. This is a company that develops health and beauty products designed for people of color. His work has helped address gaps in the consumer products industry while expanding representation in business and technology.

Lisa Price

Lisa Price founded Carol's Daughter after creating natural hair and skincare products in her Brooklyn kitchen. Her company grew into a nationally recognized beauty brand and helped pave the way for other entrepreneurs in the beauty industry.

Politicians, Judges, and Government Leaders

Throughout American history, Black leaders have helped shape our government through public service, the courts, and elected office. They have written laws, argued landmark court cases, and made decisions that continue to influence the country today. 

Shirley Chisholm

Shirley Chisholm became the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress in 1968. In 1972, she made history again as the first Black candidate to seek the presidential nomination from a major political party.

Thurgood Marshall

Thurgood Marshall was a lawyer who successfully argued Brown v. Board of Education before the United States Supreme Court, helping end racial segregation in public schools. He later became the first Black Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.

Barack Obama

Barack Obama became the first Black President of the United States when he was elected in 2008. During his two terms in office, his administration focused on issues including healthcare reform, economic recovery, and international diplomacy.

Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris became the first woman, the first Black American, and the first South Asian American to serve as Vice President of the United States. Before serving as vice president, she was a district attorney, California attorney general, and United States senator.

Ketanji Brown Jackson

Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Black woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court in 2022. Before joining the Court, she served as a federal public defender, district court judge, and judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals.

Artists, Musicians, and Performers to Research During Black History Month

Music, dance, theater, and film have helped shape culture for generations. Artists have introduced new styles of music. They've broken barriers in the performing arts and created works that continue to influence audiences around the world. 

Louis Armstrong 

Louis Armstrong was a jazz trumpeter, singer, and composer who helped popularize jazz around the world. His innovative style influenced generations of musicians and earned him recognition as one of the most important figures in jazz history.

Nina Simone

Nina Simone was a singer, pianist, and songwriter known for blending jazz, blues, gospel, and classical music. Many of her songs also became powerful anthems of the Civil Rights Movement.

Misty Copeland

Misty Copeland became the first Black female principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre in 2015. Her accomplishments challenged long-standing barriers in professional ballet and brought greater attention to diversity in the dance world.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is an award-winning actress known for her work in film, television, and theater. She is one of the few performers to achieve EGOT status, earning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award during her career.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé is a singer, songwriter, producer, and businesswoman whose music has earned dozens of Grammy Awards. She has also made significant contributions to film, fashion, and philanthropy.

Educators and Trailblazers

Some people change history by teaching others, opening doors, and creating opportunities that last for generations. Black educators and trailblazers have founded schools, advanced research, and challenged ideas about education and equality. 

Carter G. Woodson

Carter G. Woodson was a historian, author, and educator often called the "Father of Black History." He founded Negro History Week in 1926. This later grew into the Black History Month we celebrate today.

Mary McLeod Bethune

Mary McLeod Bethune was an educator who founded the Daytona Literary and Industrial School for Training Negro Girls. Later on, it became Bethune-Cookman University. She also advised President Franklin D. Roosevelt on issues affecting Black Americans and education.

W. E. B. Du Bois

W. E. B. Du Bois was a sociologist, historian, author, and civil rights leader whose research challenged racial inequality in the United States. He was also one of the founding members of the NAACP and published numerous books and scholarly works.

Marva Collins

Marva Collins was an educator who founded the Westside Preparatory School in Chicago to provide a rigorous education for students who had struggled in traditional classrooms. Her teaching methods gained national attention and influenced educators across the country.

Bettina Love

Bettina Love is an author, professor, and educational researcher whose work focuses on equity, culturally responsive teaching, and educational justice. Her books and research encourage creating classrooms where every student feels valued and supported.

Help Make Research Approachable With This Black History Month Graphic Organizer

After your students choose someone to research, it's helpful to give everyone the same framework for organizing their learning. Whether your students select a different person or you assign individuals by category, a research page keeps your students focused on the most important information. It also makes it easy for your students to share what they've learned with classmates.

That's exactly why I created my free Black History Spotlight Page. As your students research their historical figure, they'll record information for short and fun prompts. They'll have space to jot down biographical information, accomplishments, an important quote, explain significance, and create three hashtags that capture their legacy. They can even write a question they would ask if they had the opportunity to meet them. These prompts encourage your students to zero in on specific facts, showing them that research is doable. 

One of my favorite ways to use the completed spotlight pages is to create a classroom gallery walk. Display each of your students' finished pages around the room. Give your students time to read about several different historical figures. If you have time, you can also have them share their research with the class individually or with their partner, if they have one. By the end of the activities, your students won't just know the person they researched. They'll leave with an understanding of the individuals who have shaped Black history.

Make Black History Month Meaningful for Your Students

Black History Month gives us an opportunity to introduce our students to people whose ideas, talents, and leadership helped shape the world we live in today. By exploring a variety of careers and accomplishments, our students begin to see that history isn't made by just a few well-known individuals. It's built by countless people who chose to make a difference in their own unique ways.

Every biography offers a chance to build historical understanding while strengthening research and critical thinking skills. I hope these Black History Month activities help your middle school or high school students discover new role models, ask thoughtful questions, and leave February with a deeper appreciation for the many contributions Black Americans have made throughout history.

Save for Later

Pin this post to your favorite teaching board so you'll have these Black History Month activities ready when you're planning lessons for your middle school or high school students. With 40 influential figures to explore and a free research page, you'll have everything you need to make Black History Month meaningful and engaging.

0

Hispanic Heritage Month Research Ideas

You know those moments in your classroom when your student lights up because they finally see someone who looks like them, speaks their language, or shares part of their story? Those moments matter more than we sometimes realize. Hispanic Heritage Month gives you a built-in opportunity to create those connections while also helping all of your students understand the impact Hispanic and Latino individuals have had across history, science, the arts, and beyond. 

Let's be honest, figuring out how to do this in a meaningful way (without just naming a few famous figures and moving on) can feel overwhelming. You want your students to truly connect with these stories, but finding the time, structure, and right resources to make that happen isn’t always easy. This is your chance to make those stories impactful. When your students take the time to learn about real people and their contributions, it shifts learning from memorizing facts to building understanding, respect, and awareness. 

What Hispanic Heritage Month Means and Why It Matters in Your Classroom

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated each year from September 15 through October 15. This timeframe was chosen intentionally because it includes the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15, followed by Mexico on September 16 and Chile on September 18. 

When you introduce Hispanic Heritage Month to your students, it helps to go beyond a simple definition. You can explain that the term “Hispanic” generally refers to people who come from Spanish-speaking countries. “Latino” often refers to people from Latin America. These terms can overlap, but they are not always interchangeable. This is a great opportunity to model respectful language and help your students understand identity. Even taking five to ten minutes to discuss this at the start of your unit can make the rest of your activities more meaningful.

This is also a great place to pause and think about how you want to frame the month for your students. You might start with a short discussion, a map activity, or even a quick brainstorm of what your students already know. From there, transitioning into research is a natural next step. Instead of assigning random topics, you’re giving your students real people to explore. This makes the learning feel more relevant and engaging. 

How to Use a Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Page in Your Classroom

Once your students have been introduced to Hispanic Heritage Month, the next step is giving them a clear and structured way to organize their research. That’s where a simple resource can make a big difference. Instead of having your students gather random facts or struggle with where to begin, you can guide them through a research process that helps them think more deeply about the person they are studying.

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Page

My Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Page is designed to do exactly that. It’s a free print and digital template that works with any person your students choose to research. Rather than limiting you to a specific list, it gives you the flexibility to use the names provided in this post or bring in additional figures that connect to your curriculum. Your students will start by adding the person’s name and then work through a series of prompts that guide their thinking and research.

On the page, students complete seven different sections that go beyond basic facts. They include biographical information, key accomplishments, and an important quote from the person they are studying. Your students are also asked to explain the significance of that quote. You’ll also notice prompts that ask your students why we should learn about this person and what questions they would ask them. This helps bring in personal reflection and engagement. Another feature that your students will enjoy is creating three hashtags to describe the person’s life. This gives them a creative way to summarize what they’ve learned while still staying focused on the content. 

Ways to Use the Resource

This resource can be used in a really manageable way. You might start by modeling one section together as a class using a shared figure. Then, you can have your students work independently or in pairs to complete the rest. This can easily fit into one or two class periods, depending on how in-depth you want the research to be. You can also create a bulletin board display, hallway showcase, or implement a short presentation activity once your students are finished.

Hispanic Heritage Month Research Ideas to Get Your Students Started

Now that you have a clear way to introduce Hispanic Heritage Month and a structure your students can use to organize their research, the next step is choosing who they will research. This is often the part that can slow things down, especially if your students aren’t sure where to start or if you’re trying to quickly gather appropriate options.

To make this easier, I’ve put together a list of over 40 influential figures across a variety of fields. This allows your students to explore different interests, whether they are drawn to sports, music, science, history, or leadership. You can assign individuals, let your students choose, or even have them work in pairs. 

As your students work through their research, you can have them use the Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Page to organize their thinking, record important information, and reflect on why their chosen person matters. This keeps the activity focused, meaningful, and easy to manage from start to finish.

Athletes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Roberto Clemente

Roberto Clemente was a Hall of Fame baseball player
who played for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He was known not only for his talent on the field, but also for his humanitarian efforts. He died in a plane crash while delivering aid to Nicaragua.

Laurie Hernandez

Laurie Hernandez is an Olympic gymnast who competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics. She helped the U.S. team win a gold medal and also earned an individual silver medal. She later became a public figure and advocate for mental health.

Oscar De La Hoya

Oscar De La Hoya is a professional boxer who won an Olympic gold medal in 1992. He went on to win multiple world titles in different weight classes. He is also known for promoting boxing after his career.

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi is widely considered one of the greatest soccer players in history. He has won multiple Ballon d’Or awards and led Argentina to a World Cup victory. His skill, vision, and consistency have made him a well-known icon around the world.

Pelé

Pelé was a legendary soccer player from Brazil who won three World Cups. He scored over 1,000 goals during his career. He is often considered one of the greatest athletes of all time.

Artists, Musicians, and Entertainers

Desi Arnaz

Desi Arnaz was an actor and musician best known for I Love Lucy. He also helped revolutionize television production behind the scenes. His work influenced how sitcoms are filmed today.

Celia Cruz

Celia Cruz was a famous salsa singer known as the “Queen of Salsa.” She recorded many popular songs and performed around the world. Her music continues to influence Latin artists today.

Gloria Estefan

Gloria Estefan is a Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter. She helped bring Latin pop music to mainstream audiences. She has sold millions of records worldwide.

Frida Kahlo

Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter known for her self-portraits. Her artwork often reflected her life experiences and Mexican culture. 

Lin-Manuel Miranda

Lin-Manuel Miranda is a composer, actor, and playwright. He created the musicals Hamilton and In the Heights. His work blends history, music, and storytelling.

Rita Moreno

Rita Moreno is an award-winning actress, singer, and dancer. She is one of the few performers to win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. She has had a long career in film and television.

Diego Rivera

Diego Rivera was a Mexican artist known for his large murals. His work often showed Mexican history and everyday life. He was married to Frida Kahlo.

Selena

Selena was a popular Tejano singer known for her powerful voice and performances. She became one of the most influential Latin artists of her time. 

Joan Baez

Joan Baez is a folk singer known for her powerful voice and activism. She was involved in the civil rights movement and often used music to support social causes. Her songs helped bring attention to important issues.

George Lopez

George Lopez is a comedian and actor known for his television show George Lopez. His work often highlights family, culture, and everyday life experiences. He has also been involved in charitable work.

Carmen Miranda

Carmen Miranda was a singer, dancer, and actress known for her performances in films and on stage. She became popular in the United States during the 1940s. She helped introduce Latin music and culture to a wider audience.

Soledad O’Brien

Soledad O’Brien is a journalist and television host known for reporting on important social issues. She has created documentaries and worked with major news networks. She also supports education through her foundation.

Pablo Picasso

Pablo Picasso was a Spanish artist known for helping create Cubism. He produced thousands of works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings. 

Tito Puente

Tito Puente was a musician known for his work in Latin jazz and mambo music. He played multiple instruments and recorded many songs. He helped to make Latin music popular in the United States.

Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta was a fashion designer known for elegant clothing designs. His work was worn by public figures, including U.S. first ladies. He became one of the most well-known designers in the world.

Cantinflas

Cantinflas, whose real name was Mario Moreno, was a famous Mexican actor and comedian. He became known for his humor and unique speaking style. He starred in many films and was popular across Latin America.

Writers and Poets

Sandra Cisneros

Sandra Cisneros is a writer best known for The House on Mango Street. Her work often explores identity and culture. Her books are frequently taught in schools.

 

Pablo Neruda  

Pablo Neruda was a poet and diplomat from Chile. He wrote many poems about love and politics. He won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1971. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gary Soto

Gary Soto is a writer known for poetry and stories about everyday life. His work often reflects his experiences growing up. 

Quiara Alegría Hudes

Quiara Alegría Hudes is a playwright and author. She is known for writing the musical In the Heights with Lin-Manuel Miranda. Her work often explores identity and culture.

Leaders, Activists, and Historical Figures

Cesar Chavez

Cesar Chavez was a labor leader and civil rights activist. He worked to improve conditions for farmworkers in the United States. He co-founded the United Farm Workers union (In 2026, his reputation was severely damaged due to allegation and you may want to have students focus on Dolores Huerta instead of Chavez).

Dolores Huerta

Dolores Huerta is a labor leader and activist who co-founded the United Farm Workers. She helped organize strikes and advocate for workers’ rights. Her famous phrase is “Sí, se puede.”

Rigoberta Menchú

Rigoberta Menchú is a human rights activist from Guatemala. She worked to bring attention to the struggles of Indigenous people. She won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992.

Bob Menendez

Bob Menendez is a U.S. Senator from New Jersey. He has served in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. His work has focused on foreign policy and domestic issues.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. She became one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. She is known for her work on economic and environmental issues.

 

Eva Perón

Eva Perón was a political leader and the first lady of Argentina. She worked to support women’s rights and improve conditions for the poor. 

 

Irma Rangel

Irma Rangel was the first Mexican American woman elected to the Texas House of Representatives. She worked to improve education and opportunities for students. She also helped establish a law school in South Texas.

Sonia Sotomayor

Sonia Sotomayor is a justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. She is the first Latina to serve in this role. She has also written books about her life and experiences.

Pancho Villa

Pancho Villa was a leader during the Mexican Revolution. He played an important role in battles that helped shape Mexico’s history. 

Emiliano Zapata

Emiliano Zapata was a leader in the Mexican Revolution who fought for land reform. He supported farmers and worked to improve their rights. 

Scientists and Innovators

Mario Molina

Mario Molina was a chemist who studied the Earth’s atmosphere. His research helped explain damage to the ozone layer. He won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1995.

Ellen Ochoa

Ellen Ochoa was the first Hispanic woman to travel to space. She later became the director of the Johnson Space Center. She has also worked as an engineer and inventor.

Luis Walter Alvarez

Luis Walter Alvarez was a physicist who won the Nobel Prize in Physics. He contributed to important discoveries in science, including work on subatomic particles. 

France A. Córdova

France A. Córdova is an astrophysicist who has worked with NASA. She has also served as the director of the National Science Foundation. Her work focuses on space science and education.

José M. Hernández

José Hernández is a NASA astronaut and engineer. He worked on missions related to space exploration and later became an advocate for education. 

Helen Rodríguez Trías

Helen Rodríguez Trías was a doctor and public health advocate. She worked to improve healthcare for women and children. She was the first Latina president of the American Public Health Association.

Explore More Hispanic Heritage Month and Research Resources

Remember to grab my free Hispanic Heritage Spotlight page! If you want to keep the research going in your classroom, there are even more spotlight research pages you can use throughout the year. You can easily bring the same structure into other meaningful units like Black History Month, Arab American Heritage Month, Women’s History Month, and more. Having a consistent format helps your students focus on the learning instead of trying to figure out what to do each time.

You can also explore additional resources in my TPT store, where you’ll find complete units and activities to support your social studies instruction. From timeline activities and map skills to full research projects for world history and American history, I created these resources to help you save time while still keeping your students engaged. Whether you’re building a full unit or just looking for something to supplement what you’re already teaching, you’ll have options that are ready to use!

Making Hispanic Heritage Month Memorable

Hispanic Heritage Month is more than just a date on the calendar. It is an opportunity to help your students connect with real people, real stories, and real contributions that have shaped the world around them. When you give your students the chance to research and reflect on these individuals, you are helping them build a deeper understanding of history, culture, and identity. These are the kinds of learning experiences that stick with them far beyond your classroom.

With the structure of the spotlight page and a list of influential figures, you have everything you need to make this both meaningful and manageable. Whether you use this as a short research activity, a classroom display, or part of a larger unit, you are creating space for your students to see themselves, learn about others, and recognize the impact people can have. 

Save for Later

Be sure to save this post so you have a collection of Hispanic Heritage Month research ideas whenever you need them. Having everything organized in one place makes it easy to come back to when you’re planning lessons, setting up a research project, or looking for a meaningful activity your students will connect with.

 

 

0

Creating the Ultimate Sub Folder

If you’ve ever woken up sick at 5:00 a.m. or gotten that dreaded call from the school nurse saying your child isn’t feeling well, you know the panic that sets in when you realize you’re not prepared for a sub. Emergencies happen. We’ve all been there! That’s exactly why having a ready-to-go sub folder is such a lifesaver. I like to think of it as my classroom safety net. When everything is organized and ready, I can stay home and rest without worrying that my students or substitute will be left scrambling.

What to Include in Your Sub Folder

Your sub folder should be simple, organized, and easy to follow. I always start with the basics like updated class rolls, the current bell schedule, and any special notes about students who leave early or have accommodations. These small details make a big difference, especially for a substitute who may be new to your school or your class routine. I also make sure my sub folder includes both digital and printed copies of everything, just in case technology decides to act up.

Another must-have is a clear schedule layout. If your school runs on A/B days or rotating classes, try to make the schedule as visual and straightforward as possible. I’ve found that including a quick chart or even color-coding the classes can save a substitute a lot of confusion. The easier you make it for them to follow your day, the smoother everything will go in your absence.

I also always leave emergency lesson plans. They are simple, flexible activities that don’t depend on what we’re currently studying. These lessons usually cover topics that I know we have already covered. This way, if I’m unexpectedly out, I know the substitute can grab a plan that works with any unit. I also leave space for them to jot down how things went or if certain activities were particularly successful. It’s such a helpful way to stay in the loop when you return.

The Secret Ingredient - No Prep Sub Plans

Let’s be honest. Creating meaningful sub plans is often the most stressful part of being out. That’s exactly why I designed my No Prep Sub Plans to take that pressure off your shoulders. These plans are designed specifically for history teachers. They include 10 engaging activities that can fit into any U.S. or World History unit. The best part? They come with clear teacher directions, print and digital options, and flexible timing guidelines so you can customize based on your schedule.

Each activity in the No Prep Sub Plans is self-contained. This means substitutes can easily pick up and teach without extra prep. Let's take a peek at some of the activities.

Whose Phone is This?

"Whose Phone Is This?" gets your students thinking creatively about historical figures through a modern lens.  Students will choose a historical figure that they have learned about and answer questions based on what that figure might have on their cell phone if they lived today.  It's a fun and engaging way to get students thinking about these figures as "real people" and not just a character in their textbook. 

Historical Front Page

The "Historical Front Page" is a 45–60 minute activity that has your students creating a front page for a historical event you have studied in class. Using both pictures and words, students must create the front page of a newspaper that is covering the historical event. Students must focus on accuracy, creativity, and connections to their notes. 

Infographic

The Infographic Activity allows your students to demonstrate understanding visually. After being introduced to how infographics share information using images, your students will create their own infographic. This activity is perfect for classes with diverse learners. 

Puzzles

There are even two puzzle options that are perfect for shorter class periods. Using the Crossword Puzzle and Word Find activities, students will reinforce vocabulary and key people from recent lessons. Students love creating the puzzles and then trading with a classmate to solve a puzzle. 

History Meets Social Media

Your students who love social media will get a kick out of "History Book" and "Chatter". In these activities, they create mock profiles or posts for famous figures. These 30–45 minute tasks combine history and pop culture, making even the most reluctant learners excited to participate.

The Movie Plot

The Movie Plot task lets your students imagine pitching a historical film to a Hollywood producer. They have to think through characters, setting, and dialogue. It’s a 45–60 minute project that turns research into storytelling.

 

And. . . there are more activities included in this resource! Whether your substitute needs to fill one class period or an entire day, there’s enough variety to choose from while still keeping the work meaningful. What makes these sub plans stand out is the creative mix of activities. 

With all these options at your fingertips, you can easily build a sub folder that’s flexible, engaging, and completely no prep. Every activity is designed to stand alone, which means your sub doesn’t have to stress about keeping up with your pacing guide. You also don’t have to worry about reteaching everything when you return.

How to Keep Your Sub Folder Ready All Year

Creating your sub folder is just the beginning. The real key is keeping it up to date. I like to revisit mine at the start of each quarter. I replace outdated rosters, check my emergency contact list, and refresh my thank-you note for subs. I also keep a checklist in the front that reminds me to restock copies of any activities that were used. Having extra copies printed and ready to go has saved me more times than I can count!

Another helpful tip is to store your sub folder somewhere obvious. I keep mine in a clearly labeled binder right by my computer so it’s easy to find. I even let a trusted colleague know where it’s kept, just in case I’m ever out unexpectedly. If your school uses Google Drive, it’s worth uploading a digital backup there too. That way, everything, from rosters to sub plans, is just a click away.

Don’t forget the personal touch. I always include a thank-you note and, when possible, a small token of appreciation for my sub. Whether it’s a coffee gift card or a quick promise to cover their class in return, showing gratitude goes a long way. Substitutes often step into chaos, and a little kindness can make their day.

Grab Your Free Resource

If you’re ready to take the stress out of prepping for a sub day, I’ve got you covered! When you sign up, I will send you more tips and ideas for setting up your sub plan and one free activity. It's a ready-to-use activity that’s perfect to include in your sub folder. It’s an easy way to start building your collection of meaningful lessons that keep your students engaged and learning, even when you can’t be there. Sign up today and grab your free download to make your next sub day completely worry-free!

 

 

Time to Build Your Stress Free Sub Folder

Having a well-prepared sub folder isn’t just about organization. It’s about peace of mind. When everything your substitute needs is in one place, you can take that unexpected day off without feeling guilty or worried about what’s happening back at school. 

With my No Prep Sub Plans, you’ll know your students are still engaged in meaningful, standards-based work that ties directly to your content. So take a deep breath, grab a binder, and start creating your ultimate sub folder today. And. . . if you want ready-to-use activities for your sub folder, then make sure to grab my No Prep Sub Plans resource.  It includes all the activities from this post, and more!  Future you will be so glad you did!

Save for Later

Pin this post to your teacher board so you’ll have it handy the next time you’re setting up your sub folder or refreshing your emergency sub plans. You’ll thank yourself later when that unexpected sick day hits!

 

4