Black History Month at our Schools
by Marilyn Santucci
For the month of February, schools across the Lester B. Pearson School Board are honouring Black History Month in different ways. Below are some examples among many. Elsewhere in this issue of the Pearson News, you can read detailed descriptions of several of these events.
Beechwood Elementary
At Beechwood Elementary, Black History Month featured presentations, workshops, and assemblies that explored Black history, culture, and identity. Students experienced Tracking Black Canada: Breaking Barriers Edition with Omari Newton, learning about Black pioneers in Canada, and engaged with author and illustrator danielle cox, celebrating representation, self-love, and creativity. These initiatives, supported by the school community and grants, emphasized the importance of Black history as a vital part of Canada’s story.
Clearpoint Elementary
Students at Clearpoint Elementary enjoyed an inspiring presentation by Omari Newton from Overture With The Arts. Centered around the theme of “Breaking Barriers,” Mr. Newton shared the story of how early Black communities were established in Canada following the escape and emancipation of enslaved people from the southern United States. His compelling slam poetry brought the history of Black Canada vividly to life, engaging students throughout the presentation.
The event also included a heartwarming surprise! During the presentation, Mr. Newton discovered that one of the audience members—Mme Carrie—was his former elementary school teacher. What a truly special full-circle moment!
Edgewater Elementary
In recognition of Black History Month, Edgewater welcomed Omari from Ouverture with the Arts to present Tracking Black Canada – Breaking Barriers. During this interactive assembly for students in Grades 3 to 6, Omari shared poetry and stories highlighting influential Black Canadians who shaped our nation’s history. Students learned about key trailblazers, the use of map and signal songs during the Underground Railroad, and the experiences of Black Loyalists who settled in Nova Scotia and later in Sierra Leone. This presentation offered a meaningful opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of our community’s rich history and draw inspiration from these powerful stories.
John Rennie High School
At John Rennie High School, assemblies were held to promote the knowledge of Black History. Members of their Black Student Union put together an amazing event filled with history, keynote speakers, and live music. They even attracted the attention of CBC News!
Black History Month Event at John Rennie
Margaret Manson Elementary
Students at Margaret Manson Elementary School are celebrating Black History Month in a creative and meaningful way through an art workshop led by Lester B. Pearson School Board art consultant Frank Caracciolo. The workshop invites students to explore Black history through the arts while expressing themselves and learning about the world around them.
Pierrefonds Community High School
The Black Student Union at PCHS raised the Pan-African Flag to mark Black History Month. The school also held an assembly where Black history was discussed and celebrated.
Black History Month Events at Pierrefonds Community High School
St Charles Elementary
St. Charles Elementary enlisted Grade 6 students to share short videos throughout the month, discussing what they have learned about Black history. From the Underground Railroad to influential figures such as Viola Desmond and Harriet Tubman, students explored stories of resilience, courage, and change. Through this initiative, they not only deepened their understanding of the past but also reflected on the importance of diversity, inclusion, and continuing the conversation about equity today.
