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The prominent historian Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week, which later became Black History Month to celebrate the rich history of the African diaspora in the United States. Specifically, Woodson sought to highlight the contributions of not just famous greats, but of countless African Americans to the advancement of America. In honor of his efforts, this °µÍø½ûÇø in the Community will celebrate and encourage everyday heroes. Heroes like Mr. Prather who recognized his students by creating a robust self-care day. Or, the mentors, moms, fathers, and guardians who attended the Young Men’s Empowerment Summit to support students. Or, the school leaders, teachers, staff and students who gave hours of their time and talents to various Black History Month events at all of our campuses. Thus, Black History Month reminds us of sacrifice and achievement, but also encourages and propels us to push forward.
-Althea Holford, Managing Director of Community & Government Affairs
Around Town:
Black History Month at °µÍø½ûÇø DC
From discussion panels, historical dress-up days, door decorations, to live museum walks and performances–our students celebrated the past and showcased their excellence during Black History Month. Throughout February, we sat with our °µÍø½ûÇø DC teachers for our #°µÍø½ûÇøDCBlackVoices campaign, where teachers . °µÍø½ûÇø DC College Preparatory hosted the “ which included performances from all of our °µÍø½ûÇø DC schools. °µÍø½ûÇø DC Heights Academy hostedday where local barbers and stylists gave students fresh hairstyles while learning about the history of Black hair!Ìý It was great to see our community come together for Black History Month in celebration of the past, present, and future!Ìý
3rd ÌýAnnual Young Men’s Empowerment SummitÌý
On February 8, we welcomed more than 150 young men, fathers, mentors, and community members to °µÍø½ûÇø DC College Preparatory for our 3rd annual Young Men’s Empowerment Summit. This year’s theme was “Knowledge is Power.”Ìý Students and adults left with resources around social justice, fiscal responsibility,Ìý²¹²Ô»åÌýhealth & wellness.
3rd Annual G.E.M.S Summit
On March 8, we’re kicking off Women’s History Month with the 3rd annual Girls Embracing Their Magic & Strength (G.E.M.S.) Summit! The G.E.M.S. summit will address the pressures that students are facing by focusing sessions on ·É±ð±ô±ô²Ô±ð²õ²õ,Ìýcoping with stress,Ìý²ú±ð²¹³Ü³Ù²âÌýespecially as it relates toÌýsocial media,Ìýbelonging, and what it means to be a young woman of color today. We look forward to welcoming all young women and their guardians for a day of empowerment!
°µÍø½ûÇø DC Testify Before DC City Council
On February 20, °µÍø½ûÇø DC’s senior director of compliance Kelli Whelan, and °µÍø½ûÇø DC’s school leader support advisor Abe Clayman, testified before the DC City Council’s Committee on Health. They testified on the need for increased support from the Department of Health for our students, including increasing the number of school nurses and crossing guards available. We look forward to continuing these conversations with city leaders to help increase access and resources to our students.Ìý
Ellen Surprises °µÍø½ûÇø DC Teacher & Students
We were thrilled to see our °µÍø½ûÇø DC Arts & Technology students and teacher Mr. Prather on national television in February when they were invited to The EllenÌýDeGeneres Show! During the winter, Mr. Prather went above and beyond the call of duty to provide a self-care day for his students. Students received haircuts, nail painting, and learned about the importance of self-care. We’re proud to have great educators going above and beyond for students! !
Community Engagement Team in New Orleans
This month, the °µÍø½ûÇø DC engagement team traveled to New Orleans to lead a workshop on parent and family engagement for °µÍø½ûÇø regions from around the country. During the workshop, we shared best practices on building a coalition of dedicated parent partners, increasing family and community engagement, and supporting and engaging community leaders and business owners.
