At E.L. Haynes, our diversity and how we care for each other are two of our greatest strengths. In addition to centering the voices and histories of Black, Indigenous, and people of color, including Latine communities, year-round in our lesson planning, we bring our cross-campus community together to celebrate the many cultures that make E.L. Haynes strong and unique.
During Black History Month in February, we learned about Black history and power, celebrated Black culture and love, and elevated the voices and stories of Black authors. Connecting to this year’s national theme for Black History Month, Black Resistance, our cross-campus celebration honored the fact that, “despite historic and ongoing oppression, Black people have found ways to nurture and protect Black lives through activism, advocacy, organizing, and the arts.” Click here to read more about the national theme.
Throughout the month, students across all three campuses engaged in special learning units, field trips, or assignments.
- High school students went on a Black history scavenger hunt across three different Smithsonian museums. While exploring, students were tasked with locating specific exhibitions and artifacts around each museum, including the Greensboro lunch counters from the student sit-ins, and more. In addition to finding each item, students took time at each exhibition to reflect on what they saw and learned.
- At the middle school, students in the 7th grade Humanities class read Black Trailblazers, a collection of 30 excerpts about Black historical figures, innovators, and more. Their exploration of the book went beyond reading. Students met with the author Bijan Bayne, who came to the classroom to talk with them about leaders profiled in the book, the writing process, and how to work towards becoming a published author.
- Our elementary school Extended Day Program closed out the month with their very own Black History Month celebration, where our youngest learners performed a series of dance numbers for their favorite teachers, friends, and families.
On February 22, we hosted hundreds of families for our annual cross-campus Black History Month Celebration. The event, which was our first in-person Black History Month celebration since 2020, was full of love and joy. The evening featured live performances, including Go-Go sets from our high school student band, musical selections from both our elementary and middle school students, dance showcases, original student poetry, and more. In case you missed it, check out our Instagram reel, watch the highlight reel, and view the event program!
Thank you to all of the families who joined our celebration, to all of the students who performed or organized events throughout the month, and to all of the teachers and staff who led special activities. We look forward to next year’s celebration, and to all of the learning that will take place in the coming year.
