Honoring Black History

Honoring Black History

Saint Peter's School celebrated the contributions of Black Americans throughout February with a series of school-wide presentations. Nine eighth grade students volunteered to be part of the Black History Month planning committee. The students researched topics for their presentations during lunch and recess. They decided to highlight lesser-known figures who have contributed to bettering their community, as well as pivotal moments in the civil rights movement. The students shared their presentations during the Monday morning assemblies as well as the weekly Morning Shows.
 
Presentations focused on influential figures like Rosa Parks, Jane Bolin, and James Hubert Blake, the accomplishments of actors such as Yara Shahidi and Denzel Washington, the work of directors like John Singleton and Jordan Peele, and the contributions of space explorers and athletes. Key events that were covered included the ratification of the 15th Amendment and the desegregation of Major League Sports.
 
A highlight of the month was a special performance by the Bright Star Theatre Company from North Carolina. Their play, Dr. King, told the story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life from the point of view of two students writing a report. The production touched on the struggles that Dr. King faced due to living during the time of segregation in the south.
 
In addition to these school-wide activities, each grade-level participated in lessons and projects that allowed them to dive deeper into the achievements and legacy of Black Americans.
 
The Black History Month activities at Saint Peter’s were both inspiring and educational, encouraging students to reflect on the past and showing them the importance of speaking out against injustice.