Past, Present, and Future: A Celebration of Black History
At Creative Minds International Public Charter School, we’re celebrating Black History Month by continuing our year-round recognition of the diverse lives of people all around the world.
This year’s Black History Month theme is “Past, Present, and Future.” We’ll learn about the the African Americans who have shaped our world and those that are doing so today. And we’ll look to the future to think about how we can make a positive difference in society.
A full calendar of events features projects and performances here at Creative Minds and takes us outside school to explore the rich resources for learning right on our doorstep.
We welcome all Creative Minds families to our February 7 and February 21 assemblies. Please see our calendar for details.
Building Community
On February 12 students, teachers, and staff will wear blue to signify school-wide unity in the recognition of Black History Month.
A February 26 Unity Walk will start with a presentation on the significance of peaceful protests by African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement and be followed by a Unity Walk around the school building—our own peaceful protest. Students are encouraged to wear black and create posters that advocate for the causes they believe in.
In the Classroom
With arts-integrated activities, students are exploring the lives of African Americans throughout history. They’re reading books from our diverse library, watching films that celebrate bold innovators and change-makers, and creating displays that highlight their learning and tie in to their personal goals.
Students in our after-school Video Club are creating “Black History News Report” videos to share with the community—an integration of technology and history that’s allowing students to acquire new skills, tap into their creativity, and reinforce their history learning.
Music and Movement
At assemblies for students in lower school and middle school, we’re both welcoming special guests and showcasing the talents of our own #CMIProud students.
On February 7, a Step Experience Assembly brings us steppers from African American sororities and fraternities for a display of this innovative art form and a discussion of its history.
The Music Experience assembly, on February 19, features the Side by Side Go Go Band, made up of the brave (and musical) women and men of DC’s Metropolitan Police Department.
Creative Minds students will perform at the African Dance & Drum Experience on February 21, a showcase of students’ artistry and an opportunity for them to take pride in their achievements and share the joy of their creative expressions.
Beyond the Classroom
On February 13, 6th-graders will visit the Museum of the American Indian, and on February 20, students in 2nd grade head to the Museum of Women in the Arts.
Our 8th-graders will cap off their Confederate-monument action project on February 27 when the producers of The Six Triple Eight, a documentary about the African American women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, join us for a screening of the film and a discussion.
Nayamka Long, chief academic officer, says about our rich celebration of African American history, “We know that having knowledge of the past will open doors to our future. We want all students to be encouraged and motivated to make a difference in their communities!”