February 7, 2025 - Black History Month is often pushed aside, even ignored in some circles but not here. Here, staff and students are making sure this Black History Month is front and center.
One example of this is happening in Mrs. Fitzpatrick’s classroom. The 7th grade ELA teacher recently had students design posters that showcase historically important Black and Brown people. She says it is important to showcase the many achievements and inventions by African American figures. Some of the historical figures students chose include Malcom X, Fredrick Douglass, and Rosa Parks.
Students are not the only ones creating projects to celebrate this month, Mrs. Monteiro, Director of School Culture, plans on showcasing students' voices using the visual representation of a tree. “On the leaves, students are finishing the sentence ‘I am who I am because of....’ and explaining why.” This colorful, leaf covered tree is displayed in the main lobby, along with an interactive exhibit for students to learn about important Black and Brown inventors, artists, humanitarians and activists.
During Black History Month, students like Senior Tomas Rivera feel seen. “I feel appreciated and heard,” said Rivera.
Black History Month is a special and significant time to pay homage to historical and past figures that are often unappreciated and unrepresented. However, GLCPS staff and students work as a community throughout the school year to make sure this does not happen. It is something that has never wavered, says Mrs. Monteiro, since she joined the staff in 2007. “GLCPS as a school supports all students and staff of every cultural background,” she said.
At GLCPS, Black History Month is an opportunity not only to celebrate the contributions of those who are often overlooked but to gain a more realistic perspective on the history of our country.
Kyle Keough is a senior at GLCPS. As part of his senior internship program, he is writing news articles for and about the GLCPS community.
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