Charles H. Bullock's Family Visits School
Bullock students had some very special guest volunteers during the school’s second annual Eco Action Week. Members of the Charles H. Bullock family were thrilled with the opportunity to visit the namesake’s school and meet students, staff and families who were participating in the environmental science event.
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Pictured at left from l to r: Natalie Moten, Cousin of the family, Cheryl Bullock, Great Granddaughter of CHB Sr., Nami Kuwabara, Principal, Jennifer Woschinko, Environmental Studies Teacher, Theresa Bullock Whitaker, Great Granddaughter of CHB Sr.)
Built on the former site of the Washington Street Y 15 years ago, the school’s name pays tribute to Charles Harmon Bullock who was a prominent leader in the African American YMCA movement in the early 20th Century. The son of former enslaved people, he became a teacher, a journalist, and served as the Washington Street Y's executive director from 1916 to 1935. A photograph of Mr. Bullock is located in the school entranceway, memorializing his contributions during his tenure.
Pictured at left from l to r: Shakim Thompson, boyfriend of Chelsea Hannah,Theresa Bullock Whitaker, Great Granddaughter of CHB Sr., Cheryl Bullock, Great Granddaughter of CHB Sr., Chelsea Hannah, Great Great Granddaughter of CHB Sr., Natalie Moten, Cousin of the family.
“It is so special to us to be here,” said Cheryl Bullock, great granddaughter of Charles H. Bullock. “When he led the YMCA, he took responsibility for the families, and I see how that impacted the community of Montclair. He was known as ‘the implementer of dreams,’ and this school is a perfect example of that.”
Family members volunteering went to each Eco station to assist students, chatted with them and even learned how to make paper from recycled materials, the signature activity that highlights sustainable practices.
“We are so grateful for the opportunity to welcome the Bullock family during this important event that captures the true spirit of our Environmental Science Magnet," said Principal Nami Kuwabara. "Not only were students engaged in all of the hands-on activities developed by CHB’s Environmental Science teacher Jennifer Woschinko but excited to sit side-by-side with them and learn more about the history behind the Bullock School name.”
Chelsea Hannah, great, great granddaughter of Charles H. Bullock, who coordinated her family members’ participation said, “It means the world to me to be carrying on his legacy and to see how the YMCA turned into another place that can help the next generation. My heart is full.”
