FONTANA, CA – ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ honored the rich contributions of African and African-American heritage and fostered a spirit of excellence in a series of classroom and community activities celebrating Black History Month in February.
February began with ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥’s second annual Black History Month Celebration entitled “Harmony in Heritage and Knowledge” on Feb. 3 and ended with a . ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ collaborated with the District African American Parent Advisory Council (DAAPAC) in the events’ planning and implementation.
“These events brought together a wide range of folks who make up our community, we were so excited to bring our students into these spaces,” DAAPAC president Dr. April Clay said. “This was a great opportunity for our scholars to be recognized for their academic achievement and for some scholars to receive special recognition for community services and all the ways they contribute to society and their campuses.”
Both events showcased the talents of District students through live performances and displays of their artistic and academic creations. The District also honored its Black scholars during each event, bringing them on stage to receive awards for their academic or artistic excellence.
Virginia Primrose Elementary School fifth grader Kyoki Nance was one of many ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ students who performed and was celebrated during the District’s Black History Month Elementary Excellence Awards Ceremony on Feb. 28. and said it was an experience she will always remember.
“This event and how it celebrated the culture of the Black community was absolutely powerful,” said Danielle Nance, Kyoki’s mother after the event. “The best part was seeing all the little ones recognized for their hard work; to be honored by the District in such a special and unique way is very beautiful.”
Students across the District submitted artistic pieces or academic projects reflecting the contributions of historical Black figures that were displayed at the Black History Month community events and at the District’s John D. Piazza Education Center throughout February.
“The District provided students opportunities to explore the contributions, stories, and daily lives of people from diverse backgrounds throughout history,” Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Dr. Marcie D. Graves Poole said. “Students, classrooms, and sites were encouraged to participate in projects or activities that highlight cultures reflective of our diverse, multicultural community.”
“It was inspiring to see the ÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ community come together and honor the excellence our students achieve in this District during Black History Month,” Superintendent Miki R. Inbody said. "The academic achievements of our students are a testament to the hard work and dedication they show at school day-in and day-out, and we are proud to celebrate their successes."
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