OKC Public Schools, Greenwood Rising, and Boeing partner

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OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – In observance of Black History Month, Boeing and Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKC Public Schools) are proud to partner with Greenwood Rising for the launch of a new virtual reality learning experience, Greenwood Rising VR Learning. The platform provides an immersive experience that allows anyone around the world to learn the history of Greenwood, the Tulsa Race Massacre and the stories of America’s Black Wall Street. 

The Greenwood Rising VR Learning launch is part of Boeing’s grant partnership with Greenwood Rising. In 2021, Boeing awarded Greenwood Rising a multi-year, $500,000 grant that included funding for the Youth Leadership Forum and the virtual reality learning platform. 

“Boeing’s partnership with Greenwood Rising helps further racial equity conversations in the United States and empowers our communities to remember the history, reflect on the impact and contribute to changemaking,” said Bailey Perkins Wright, Boeing Global Engagement community investor. “We are proud of how this program uses technology to expand the reach of Greenwood Rising – both here in Oklahoma and in classrooms around the world – so people everywhere can carry forth the entrepreneurial spirit, resilience and legacy of Black Wall Street.”

Greenwood Rising will launch Greenwood Rising VR Learning with one of Oklahoma’s largest school districts, Oklahoma City Public Schools, beginning February 20 with a curriculum of virtual activities, including a scavenger hunt and a fireside chat with Greenwood Rising Executive Director Dr. Raymond Doswell.

“We are grateful for this opportunity that allows our students to experience such an innovative way to learn about an important piece of Oklahoma history,” said OKC Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Sean McDaniel. “As we reflect on Black History Month, it is imperative that we acknowledge resiliency while learning from painful chapters in the past.” 

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The series of events with OKC Public Schools District 9^th graders will provide the students with opportunities to explore beyond the textbook the history of Black Wall Street and the Tulsa Race Massacre. Greenwood Rising VR Learning will allow students from anywhere around the world to participate in virtual field trips to Greenwood Rising. In the augmented reality environment, students will be assigned an avatar that can walk through Greenwood Rising, interact with other avatars and virtually engage with Greenwood Rising exhibits.

“Boeing is such a great partner to us because they demonstrate how much they care about culture, diversity, and inclusion,” said Dr. Raymond Doswell, Greenwood Rising Executive Director. “We are truly grateful for their support in helping Greenwood Rising amplify Black History.” 

Visit the Greenwood Rising virtual learning website at https://www.greenwoodrising.org/boeing-virtual-experience