Celebrating Black History Month
This February, our Assumption School community proudly celebrates Black History Month, a time to recognize, honor, and learn about the achievements, contributions and lived experiences of Black Americans - past and present.
What is Black History Month?
Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on history, celebrate culture, and uplift voices that have shaped our nation and our world. It invites all of us - students, families, and educators - to learn, listen, and grow together.
Why It Matters to Our Community
As a Catholic school rooted in faith, justice, and respect for human dignity, celebrating Black History Month aligns with our mission to form students who are compassionate, informed, and committed to loving one another as God calls us to do.
How Assumption School is Celebrating
This month marks the start of the weekly Black History Month spotlight series in our newsletter. Each week, we will share highlights from classrooms across grade levels, showcasing how students are learning about and honoring Black history through lessons, discussions, and activities.
From the library:
In the library, students will enjoy storytime readings featuring African-American heritage and written by African-American authors, including:
- I Am Enough by Grace Byers
- Oprah: The Little Speaker by Carole Boston Weatherford
- Home-Field Advantage by Justin Tuck
- I Am More Than by LeBron James
Students will also receive themed coloring and activity sheets to work on and take home. Throughout the month, Black History-related books will be prominently displayed in the library for students to explore and enjoy. We extend a sincere thanks to Assumption School parents who have generously offered to share books from their personal libraries, helping to expand access to stories that have been meaningful to them and their families.
Some grades may also be celebrating Black History Month through special classroom activities. Be sure to ask your child what they are learning and how they are celebrating.
Community Resources
Families interested in extending learning beyond school may wish to explore Black History Month exhibits at the Oakland Museum of California and/or attend local events such as the annual Black Joy Parade, which celebrates Black culture, community, and joy. We also encourage families to keep an eye out for a forthcoming Assumption School event later this month focused on food and culture in celebration of Black History Month. Additionally, the San Leandro Public Library is having events throughout the month of February focused on Black musical talent and Gospel music featuring local choirs - consider attending!
Thank you for partnering with us as we continue to build a school community rooted in faith, learning, and inclusion.
All the best,
Assumption School JEDI Workgroup