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“You really can change the world if you care enough.” – James Baldwin

Every February, Black History Month is widely celebrated across the United States. At ������ʎ����, we take this time to honor the historical Black figures who have played an integral role in shaping the society we live in today.
Each year, ������ʎ���� 30th Street hosts a Black History Month Assembly, where students learn about the origin of Black History Month, as well as the rich history of Black Americans and their lasting impact on our country. Ms. Gordon, the Head of the Humanities Department, along with many of ������ʎ����’s wonderful faculty, create a program that includes engaging presentations, school performances, and lessons on influential Black leaders.
In addition to the assembly, ������ʎ���� integrates Black History into daily classroom lessons throughout the month of February. As such, teachers incorporate the stories of important black figures in literature, science, arts, and social justice movements.

Ms. Shaw, one of ������ʎ����’s Head Teachers at 30th street, brings the importance of this month to her students with classroom activities and discussions that emphasize the achievements of black creators, leaders, and activists. Through these lessons, students gain a deeper appreciation of diversity and perseverance.

At 45th street, the sixth-grade social studies class is celebrating Black History Month by beginning each day with a 10-minute lesson on a significant person or event in Black history. So far, students learned about Ruby Bridges, Brown v. Board of Education, and Katherine Johnson. Throughout the month, these students will also explore topics such as the Underground Railroad, Sojourner Truth, the March on Washington, and more. Students participating in these lessons will explore and analyze historical photographs, watch videos, and engage in discussions about how these individuals and events shaped history, ultimately helping students connect the past to the present.

The seventh-grade students at 45th street also learned about influential black individuals and their accomplishments throughout history. Some of the notable figures they studied included Martin Luther King Jr., Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, George Washington Carver, Rosa Parks, and Booker T. Washington. Through the study of these individuals they learned about the Civil Rights Movement, the meaning of civil rights, and the courageous actions taken by Black Americans to achieve equality in this country.
By celebrating Black History Month in a variety of meaningful ways, ������ʎ���� fosters an environment of awareness, respect, and appreciation for the contributions made to our nation’s history and future, by all of these amazing Black American icons.