Schools across AUSD have celebrated Black History Month in a variety of ways this past month, including studying Black history, culture, achievement and creating presentations.

This year’s theme was “Black Resilience and Resistance” and across the district students had opportunities to explore the theme by reading books by Black and African-American authors, studying Black artists and scientists, and creating slide decks and posters.

Some of the celebrations and acknowledgments included student artwork. Many schools held door decorating activities to 

feature living and historical examples of Black excellence, for instance. Wood Middle School held a Black History Month Resistance & Resilience Slideshow Contest. Lincoln Middle School sponsored a Black History/Afrofuturism Art Project in which students were able to create their artwork in the style of that genre.

Several schools – including Paden Elementary, Otis Elementary, and Ruby Bridges Elementary School – have held or are planning to hold “oratoricals,” in which students give speeches or do readings related to Black and African-American history and other topics related to ethnic and cultural diversity.  

“Watching our students from TK-5th grade boldly and proudly share such powerful words was nothing short of inspiring,” Otis Principal Brian Dodson wrote to his families after his school's oratorical. “ Their voices, confidence, and passion were a testament to the importance of student expression and the legacy of Dr. King.”

Assemblies this month included visits by School Yard Rap (Wood, Lincoln, Encinal); performances by dancers from West Oakland Middle School and the Zimbabwean artist Piwai (ASTI); and Bright Theater’s “Brilliant & Brave: Great Women from Black History” (Paden)

On February 8, the Office of Equity held a district-wide Black History Month with food, a trivia contest on Black History, and a performance by Schoolyard Rap. The event, which was held at Lincoln Middle School, also included a Black History trivia contest.

"It is an honor to celebrate Black History Month across AUSD," says Shamar Edwards, AUSD's Senior Director of Equity. "Our schools did a wonderful job in recognizing the theme of Black resistance and resilience. We want to be proactive throughout the year in celebrating diversity and incorporating untold stories, which enrich all of us!"

Photos:

Top right: 5th grade teacher Adrienne Brown talks to students before the oratorical at Otis Elementary School (credit: Katie Honegger). Bottom left: Office of Equity team members (left to right): Aaron Mercadel, Shamar Edwards, Shanti Croom, and Renate Westbrooks (credit: Jeremiah Sims and Ashley Sims)