A Joyful Celebration of Black History in the Lower School
Lower school students and teachers enjoyed an engaging assembly titled “A Celebration of Black Joy and Excellence: Honoring Black History Month” on March 4. Members of the Lower School Student Council led the event, which was rescheduled from February due to winter weather, and highlighted the importance of celebrating Black history throughout the year. Students were reminded that Black history is a story of creativity, perseverance, and remarkable contributions that have shaped the world.
“In 2026, we celebrate 100 years of nationally honoring Black history,” shared Hampton Young ’34. “A whole century of learning, teaching, and celebrating the amazing contributions of Black Americans who have helped shape our country and continue to inspire us today.”
Other Student Council members shared historical milestones and inspiring figures who helped shape Black history, including Louis Armstrong, astronaut Mae Jemison, and inventor Lonnie Johnson, whose Super Soaker became one of the most successful toys ever made. These stories illustrated the wide-ranging impact of Black excellence in music, science, innovation, and beyond.
An active multiple-choice game further engaged the audience, as students were asked to clap, stomp their feet, or spin in place to indicate their choice when quizzed about Black history.
Grade 4 students were invited to the podium to share their research on important abolitionists, including Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, and Frederick Douglass, and to explain how their courage and advocacy helped advance freedom and equality.
A spirited sing-along to “Sir Duke” by Stevie Wonder, led by interim lower school music teacher Ariana Tullai, brought students to their feet as they danced together, concluding the assembly with joy.
Through these thoughtful presentations and interactive activities, the assembly encouraged students to reflect on the impact of Black leaders and innovators and connect these stories to the school’s shared values.