As Austin ISD continues to celebrate Black History Month, we must recognize the trailblazers of the past who have shaped the district today.
This week, we’re honoring Olyvia Green — Austin ISD’s first Black teacher at Pease Elementary School.
Why it matters: Green paved the way for Black teachers during integration and created a lasting legacy for hundreds of students she taught during her years at Pease.
What they’re saying: “When students see teachers that look like them, that makes me feel proud,” Green said.
Background: Born in 1939 in Magnolia, Arkansas, Mr. & Mrs. Elijah Brown gave birth to a trailblazing daughter who would go on to make a lasting impact on Austin ISD. After receiving encouragement from both of her parents, Green became an educator.
She moved to Austin in 1967, working as a substitute teacher for the district at both Sims and Blackshear elementary schools.
During integration, Green said she faced racism, discrimination, and unacceptance.
However, those experiences didn’t interfere with her passion for teaching and she made sure that all her students in her classroom would learn, feel safe and be loved.
"The students at Pease were so excited to have me as a teacher because they never had a Black teacher before,” she said.
One of Green’s fondest memories was in 2015 when she was honored with a video that included former students and friends talking about her influence and the installation of her portrait at Pease.
Thank you Mrs. Green for being an inspiration for all who create a safe place for learning for our students.
