Black History Month Celebration at Tessa
For nearly 50 years, Black History Month has been celebrated in the United States to honor and recognize the significant achievements and contributions of the African American community. At Tessa International School, we celebrate this meaningful month every school year with a series of educational activities, inspiring stories, and engaging events.
Learning About Important African American Figures
Our primary students explored the lives and contributions of African Americans who fought against slavery, segregation, and discrimination. They discussed the significance of these historical changes and their lasting impact on individuals and society.
The celebration of Black History Month allows our students to recognize the accomplishments and resilience of many historical figures.
- One group of students admired how Frederick Douglass secretly learned to read and later taught other African Americans, recognizing his intelligence and compassion.
- Another group focused on Sojourner Truth, a dedicated advocate who worked tirelessly to help freed slaves find employment.
- A third group studied Mildred and Richard Loving, an interracial couple who successfully challenged Virginia’s ban on interracial marriage in the 1960s. The students were inspired by their love story, perseverance, and open-mindedness.
- A fourth group chose Harriet Tubman, the courageous risk-taker who led enslaved individuals to freedom through the Underground Railroad.
- The final group explored the contributions of Viola Desmond, a Canadian anti-segregation activist, and Nelson Mandela, the late South African leader and activist.
Integrating Black History Month into Learning
As part of their Unit of Inquiry, our students studied the achievements of African American pioneers, applying their knowledge in real-life contexts. For example, Grade 1 students, in their unit “Where We Are in Place and Time,” created timelines of African American heroes, including Martin Luther King Jr., Muhammad Ali, and Rosa Parks. This deepened their understanding of historical chronology and shared in presentations with their younger peers in Pre-K4. In addition, our Kindergartners also read Black history-themed stories to Pre-K3 students and prepared themed coloring activities for them.
Our buddy program pairs upper-grade students with younger children for reading sessions, activities, and collaborative projects. These experiences foster meaningful learning, skill development, and a sense of community, making Black History Month an inclusive and engaging celebration for all students.
We bolster a connected school community through the buddy program.
Exploring African American History with Parents
We are delighted to welcome many parents into our classrooms to share learning moments with students through storytelling, collaborative projects, and group discussions. Their visits provided valuable perspectives on how African American history has shaped our country—impacting society, science, literature, music, sports, and culture.
It was heartwarming to witness intergenerational learning in action, as parents shared their experiences and insights, enriching our students’ understanding of diversity and inclusion. These meaningful interactions help ensure that African American history continues to be honored and celebrated.
Reading books is a great way to bring the histories of African American pioneers to life for children.
It is never too early to inspire our children with the African American History.
Engaging with African American Storytelling and Music
Additionally, our students participated in an engaging educational program led by storyteller April Armstrong and musician Ayodele Maakheru. Through folktales of perseverance, such as the story of John Henry, and the vibrant rhythms of West African drumming, students gained a deeper appreciation of the struggles and triumphs of great African Americans throughout history.
As we reflect on the past and celebrate the present, we continue taking steps toward a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
Interacting with African American artists encourages students to think critically about past, present, and their roles in positively shaping this world.
