By the time Ruby was six years old, there were new laws stating that African American and white students had to integrate, or share, schools. People such as Martin Luther King, Jr. had worked for civil rights so all people could share the same education and opportunities.
In 1960, a federal judge decided that New Orleans public schools had to be integrated. Ruby was chosen with six other children to integrate previously all-white elementary schools. Though Ruby's mother was excited for her, Mr. Bridges was afraid Ruby might be treated badly at her new school. She was the only African American student chosen to attend William Frantz.
A group of policemen and federal marshals helped escort Ruby safely into her school.
Courtesy: Ruby Bridges Foundation
