Parent Portal
Every February, Black History Month provides an opportunity to honor the achievements, culture, and contributions of the African diaspora. At Willow, we embraced this month with engaging activities and thought-provoking discussions during our Morning Gathering, bringing history, music, and global perspectives to our students.
Our celebrations included a powerful lineup of guest speakers, presented by Willow parents and community members:
This Willow parent gave insightful presentations for the whole school community at Morning Gathering
The Birth of Gospel Music – Students went on a journey through the evolution of Gospel music, sharing its historical roots and cultural significance, complete with live demonstrations.
The Green Book: Navigating Segregation – Students explored the history of The Green Book, a crucial travel guide that helped Black Americans navigate segregation-era America. Seeing the actual book and its contents brought this important piece of history to life.
South Africa: Its Culture and Its People – Students were introduced to the rich customs and diverse communities of South Africa, broadening their understanding of global Black heritage.
Adding to the excitement, we welcomed Hillside Elementary School’s Drums of Thunder, a student drumming ensemble, whose powerful rhythms filled our school with energy and celebration. Check out this video of the presentation on Instagram!
The Origins of Black History Month
Black History Month traces back to 1915, when historian Carter G. Woodson and minister Jesse E. Moorland founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH). Their work led to the establishment of National Negro History Week in 1926, which later expanded into Black History Month during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s.
At Willow, we believe that learning about Black history is not limited to one month—it’s an ongoing journey of education, awareness, and appreciation. This month’s events sparked meaningful conversations and deepened our understanding of the profound impact of Black culture and history.
Want to join the Willow community? Start a conversation with our Director of Enrollment Management, Lisa VanderVeen, to see how your child will thrive at Willow.
