Margaret Sherman Burnham was a remarkable woman who made significant contributions to the fields of education and civil rights. She was born in 1906 in New Haven, Connecticut, and grew up in a middle-class African American family. Burnham received her undergraduate degree from Howard University, a historically black university in Washington, D.C., and went on to earn a Master's degree in Education from Columbia University.
Burnham began her career as a teacher in New York City, where she taught at both the elementary and high school levels. She quickly became known for her innovative teaching methods and her ability to connect with her students, many of whom came from disadvantaged backgrounds. In addition to her work as a teacher, Burnham was also an active member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and was involved in the civil rights movement.
In the 1940s, Burnham was appointed to the New York City Board of Education, where she worked to improve the education system for African American students. She fought for increased funding for schools in black neighborhoods and worked to integrate the city's schools. Burnham was also a vocal advocate for teacher training and professional development, believing that well-trained teachers were crucial to the success of students.
In addition to her work as a teacher and education reformer, Burnham was also an active member of her community. She served on the boards of numerous organizations, including the YWCA and the Urban League, and worked to promote equal rights and opportunities for African Americans.
Burnham's dedication to education and civil rights made her a respected and influential figure in her community. She was known for her intelligence, determination, and commitment to improving the lives of others, and her legacy continues to inspire educators and activists today.
