Science and Engineering with Dr. Kevin Winstead

Dr. Kevin Winstead will be the speaker at the February program of “The Other Book” series, Part II, being held at the Matheson History Museum in downtown Gainesville (see address below). There’s one program each month through April, 2026. For information on all programs, click on “The Other Book.”

As the series flyer explains, “Before schools were integrated, Black teachers taught from two books; the official government sanctioned books and ‘The Other Book’ written by Black authors about the realities of the Black experience.”

Controversial new standards for teaching Black history in Florida’s public schools were approved in 2023. In response to this change, Florida Education Association President Andrew Spar stated:

“How can our students ever be equipped for the future if they don’t have a full, honest picture of where we’ve come from? Florida’s students deserve a world-class education that equips them to be successful adults who can help heal our nation’s divisions rather than deepen them.”

Writers are encouraged to take advantage of this free educational opportunity about Black history. The lectures are free, although a donation of $5 per class is appreciated. Registering is suggested but not required. To register, go to this site: The Other Book.

Several WAG members attended the Part I lectures last year, held at four different locations: the Harn Museum, City Hall, Haile Plantation Homestead, and the Cotton Club. WAG member Michelle Dunlap was a featured speaker at City Hall, and WAG member Kathy Dobronyi, a retired history teacher, praised series, saying,”It humanize history.”