Schoolchildren Commemorate Black History Month

Today is February 29, the last day of Black History Month.  To acknowledge the contribution of African Americans in history and modern-day life, Bloomfield students participated in a variety of activities and celebrations all month long. 

"We integrated the curriculum in a variety of ways with activities that focused on the meaning and importance of this recognition," Berkeley Elementary School Librarian Tabitha Rice told Patch via email on February 29.

"The second grade researched famous Black Americans and wrote brief reports to present to their classes, then combined them to create a Famous Black American book for students to take home.  The classes also made mobiles to highlight famous black Americans."

On a recent visit to Berkeley School, students' projects lined the walls and decorated tables in the hallways of the school, commemorating the historical and modern-day contributions of black Americans.

Third and fourth graders researched and wrote reports about famous African Americans, such as Barack Obama, George Washington Carver, Rosa Parks and Jackie Robinson.  Students also created stamps and read books about famous African Americans, completing class projects about Black history and the civil rights movement. 

Rice noted that Berkeley fifth graders also created a "biography bottle" of famous African Americans in the fields of education, politics, literature, science, and sports.  The sculptural tributes to modern-day and historical figures were arranged prominently on display tables thoughout the school. 

Sixth graders created PowerPoint presentations, said Rice, to get a better understanding and appreciation of of the important contribution black Americans have made to American history.

Throughout the district, students have honored Black History Month in a variety of ways.  How did your school celebrate?  Email the editor at Linda@Patch.com and let me know!  Photos are very welcome.