Students across the district came together for a festive celebration of Black History Month on Feb. 15. The seventh annual tradition enabled students from all eight schools to showcase their skills in the performing and visual arts before the board of education, administration, parents and community members, who filled the Performing Arts Center at the high school to capacity.
The program opened with the Presentation of Colors by the Navy Junior ROTC and a remarkable rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" by the high school's Select Chorale, which was followed by a welcome by Director of Arts and Community Relations Ruth Breidenbach. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham spoke about the importance of honoring black history and paying tribute to the generations of African-Americans, who have contributed so much to America.
"Black History Month is a celebration of achievements by African-Americans, and a time for recognizing the influences, bravery, skills, beliefs and fortitude of African-Americans in United States history," said Dr. Kuncham. "It is a time to tell the stories of the black Americans who shaped our nation. According to Harriet Tubman, 'Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.' Our students are the future. It will be their turn to take their dreams, and their passion, strength and patience, to change the world and write the next part of history."
High school student Michael Desir performed a beautiful rendition of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" prior to each school's group gracing the stage. The kindergarten chorus at Columbus presented a spectacular performance of "We Share This World;" the Step Team from Giblyn performed with perfect precision during a "Kindness Crew" foot-stomping routine; Dodd's Vocal Tapestry group, dressed in traditional African garb, performed a moving rendition of African folk song "Nugan Mawu Wo;" the Archer Dance Team showcased their fabulous footwork during a dance routine to "Reach Out For Love"; the third- and fourth-grade New Visions Glee Club sang a soulful rendition of "Freedom;" the high school competition kickline team moved magnificently during a routine set to "All Goes Wrong;" the sixth-grade Select Chorus from Atkinson performed a rousing rendition of "Soon and Very Soon," which also featured a solo by Brianne Belizaire; the Bayview Dance Club showcased its excellent routine to "Heart of the Caribbean;" inspired by Bob Marley's "Buffalo Soldier," and the high school's Select Chorale rounded out the splendid slate of individual group performances with a harmonious rendition of "My Soul's Been Anchored in the Lord." As a finale to the program, students from all eight schools joined together to form a new All-District Select Chorus and performed "I Sing Because I'm Happy." Audience members then had the opportunity to enjoy students' remarkable paintings, designs, drawings and renderings that were displayed in the high school's lobby.
The district's celebration of Black History Month provided a forum for students to showcase their talents, while honoring the rich culture of African-Americans and paying homage to all that they have contributed throughout history.
