Roosevelt Celebrates Black Excellence in February

Roosevelt High School’s Black Student Union is kicking off a month of activities that will reflect on the heritage, achievements and triumphs of the African American experience.

One of the highlights of the month is the Black History Month Assembly on Wednesday, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day. The event’s theme is “It’s All About Love.”

Also, during the month of February – and particularly at the Feb. 14 assembly – Roosevelt will acknowledge and honor 28 RHS students (one for each day of the month) who represent Black Excellence.

Teachers and staff have been encouraged to nominate students who stand out for their leadership, academics, talent, athleticism and/or resilience. Students will receive public acknowledgement, certificates of accomplishment and an invitation to a soul food buffet at the end of the month.

“Given the times we are living in, it is so important to have our Black students understand that Black history is being made every day, and they are never too young to make an impact on the world,” said teacher and community activist S. Renee Mitchell, adviser to the RHS Black Student Union. “So often, young Black people are treated like stereotypes. We want our shining stars to be seen and celebrated as leaders and future change makers.”

Member of the Black Student Union will also invite community members to attend the school assembly so that students can interact with adults who have created positive change and stood up for social justice despite barriers, racist policies and stereotypes. Another highlight of the assembly is when teams of students will participate in a Black History Jeopardy game.