Dorothy Hollingsworth facts for kids
Dorothy L. Hollingsworth (October 29, 1920 – July 27, 2022) was an important American educator. She spent most of her life working in Seattle, Washington. She helped many children and families through her work in schools and social services.
Dorothy Hollingsworth was born on October 29, 1920, in Bishopville, South Carolina. Her family moved to North Carolina when she was young. She worked hard in her studies and graduated from Paine College in 1941. In 1946, she moved to Seattle with her husband. There, she began her career helping people. She worked as a social worker in Seattle's Central District during the 1950s and 1960s.
A Leader in Education
Dorothy Hollingsworth made a big difference in education. In 1965, she became the first director of the Seattle Public Schools' Head Start program. Head Start is a special program that helps young children from low-income families get ready for school. It provides early learning, health, and nutrition services.
Serving on the School Board
In 1975, Dorothy Hollingsworth was elected to the Seattle School Board. This board helps make important decisions about how schools in Seattle are run. She served on the board until 1981. This was a very important step because she was the first Black woman in the entire state of Washington to serve on a school board. Her leadership helped shape education for many students.
She also worked as the director of early childhood education for Seattle. This role focused on making sure young children had a good start in their learning journey. She was also a member of the Washington State Board of Education. This board helps set education policies for the whole state.
Her Legacy
Dorothy Hollingsworth passed away on July 27, 2022. She was 101 years old. She left behind a legacy of dedication to education and civil rights. Her work helped improve opportunities for countless children and families in Seattle and beyond.
See also
