Across campus in elementary, middle, and high school, our students honored African American men and women through various educational activities throughout February’s Black History Month.
During elementary chapel, students performed three Reader’s Theater plays on Ruby Bridges, Jackie Robinson, and Martin Luther King. The 2nd and 3rd graders did a skit on Martin Luther King Jr. and Richie in 5th grade was the narrator. The actors were: Zion, Juliette, Ava, Olivia, Israel, Evie, Yolanda, Jeremey, and Isaiah. The 4th graders did a reading about Jackie Robinson. The actors were: Leia, Kaylee, Miguel, and Jordan. The 5th graders and a few 3rd graders taught the chapel listeners about Ruby Bridges. The actors were: Lucy, Victoria R. Lulu, Carter, Mia, and Nathaniel.
Each of these famous Black Americans were brave and courageous. God gave them the strength they needed in each of their circumstances. It reminded the students of their theme verse for the year, Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
The lower elementary library classes also read a book about George Washington Carver and watched a video about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad. They had discussions about both and completed an activity sheet about Harriet Tubman.
In math class, middle school students researched and presented their findings on famous black mathematicians throughout history. Mrs. Leahy said, “It was amazing to see how much these individuals discovered and accomplished, often times amidst racism, discrimination and/or inequality. We were ALL inspired to hear their stories!”
In AP US History, the high school students learned about the Reconstruction Era and discussed the many hardships the newly freed African Americans faced as they rebuilt their lives after the Civil War.
Pastor Tinsley was a special guest speaker in all of our chapels in celebration of Black History Month. Pastor Tinsley delivered a powerful message to each group centered around Luke 10:25 and focused on the profound themes of mercy and justice through the lens of the Good Samaritan.
During his insightful talk, Pastor Tinsley challenged the middle school and high school students to display extraordinary love and compassion towards the seemingly unlovable. The students were encouraged to explore the ways they could contribute to making their fellow classmates feel valued and accepted. In a meaningful activity, students broke into small groups to reflect on follow-up questions. The questions sparked thoughtful discussions among the groups, fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of empathy and compassion in our world as Christ followers and within our school community.
In another middle school and high school chapel, the middle school choir delivered a powerful rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” It was a moving performance that captured the spirit of the month beautifully.
Each of these events and activities highlighted the culture, achievements, and faith of historic Black Americans during this special month where we celebrate those who came before us.
