Highlands Middle School students learn about combatting online hate in Mobile Museum of Tolerance

Highlands Middle School recently welcomed the Mobile Museum of Tolerance, an immersive educational experience designed to teach students about diversity, inclusion, and the real-world consequences of intolerance in both historical and modern contexts.

Jennifer Lindenbaum, a facilitator for the Museum of Tolerance, visited the school in the mobile museum – a bus adorned with images of civil rights leaders and important historical figures. The museum has a location in Los Angeles, with buses that visit schools in various states. 

“Today, we are talking about combating online hate,” said Ms. Lindenbaum. “It's a digital literacy workshop, and we talk about social media and different social media apps, and how they have both positive and negative attributes. Then, we talk about some examples of the negative side, so the hateful or offensive speech.” 

Through interactive exhibits and guided lessons, students explored difficult but essential topics including bias, discrimination, and the powerful role social media plays in shaping perceptions, spreading information, and influencing behavior.  The program challenged students to think critically about how their words and actions, both in person and online affect others and contribute to the broader community.

“For the Social Studies Department, this visit reflects our core belief about what education should accomplish, particularly at the middle school level,” said Emory Davis, Coordinator of Social Studies 7-12.

“Our goal is not simply to teach names, dates, places, and facts.  While historical knowledge is important, our deeper mission is to help students grow into thoughtful, responsible citizens who understand their role in a diverse society.”

The Mobile Museum of Tolerance provided a meaningful platform to discuss how students can manage their digital footprint, recognize the dangers of misinformation and harmful rhetoric online, and make choices that reflect empathy, respect, and integrity.  Students left with a clearer understanding that citizenship today includes how we engage with others on social media and how we carry ourselves in digital spaces.

At a time when young people are constantly navigating both physical and virtual communities, experiences like this help reinforce the importance of inclusion, accountability, and compassion. 

“The Social Studies Department remains committed to providing learning opportunities that prepare students not only for academic success, but for life as engaged, informed, and respectful members of society,” said Mr. Davis.