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in si de ha lto n. co m O ak vi lle B ea ve r | T hu rs da y, F eb ru ar y 8, 2 01 8 | S fs NEWS Black History Month events at Halton District School Board The Halton District School Board has planned a series of events throughout February in recognition of Black History Month. "February is a time when we formally recog­ nize, honour and reflect up­ on the invaluable contribu­ tions black Canadians have made intellectually, politi­ cally, artistically, cultural­ ly and so much more to the vibrancy and rich diversity that help define our coun­ try," said Stuart Miller, di­ rector of education for the Halton public board. "During this month, and all year long, we will high­ light the learning in class­ rooms to affirm and pro­ mote the achievements, knowledge, life experiences and identities of people of African and Caribbean de­ scent in all curriculum ar­ eas," said Miller. "We are honoured to have named schools after individuals who were inte­ gral to the Underground Railroad in bringing free­ dom and opportunities to thousands of people escap­ ing slavery." To highlight Black His­ tory Month, a board-wide project, which includes the participation of a total of nine elementary and sec­ ondary schools, will be un­ veiled at the end of Febru­ ary. Collaborating with Na­ tasha Henry, an African- Canadian historian and president of the Ontario Black History Society, teachers started developing learning opportunities last fall to help students identi­ fy racism while highlight­ ing black Canadian experi­ ences and contributions. Schools will showcase their learning on Feb. 28, during an event in the Josh­ ua Creek Public School li­ brary in Oakville. Halton board staff mem­ bers are using Black Histo­ ry Month as an opportunity to take learning about un­ derstanding the contribu­ tions of black Canadians beyond the classroom. Tonight, Kelly Gray, a teacher from Emily Carr Public School in Oakville, will speak at the Ireland House Museum, 2168 Guelph Line, Burlington, at 6:30 p.m. In her presentation, I am Canadian: Reflections Past and Present, Gray will talk about Canada's black ex­ plorers, slaves, pioneers and freedom fighters, and their contributions to Ca­ nadian life. "Celebrating Black His­ tory Month aligns with the equity and well-being goals contained in the board's Multi-Year Plan," said Rob Eatough, superintendent of education with the Halton board. "Our goal is to en­ sure every student learns in a respectful culture of high expectations that val­ ues diversity, and that stu­ dents will see themselves reflected in their learning. Together, we inspire every student to learn, grow and succeed." Some of the events tak­ ing place at Halton schools to celebrate the month in­ clude: • Robert Bateman High School (Burlington): The Starlite Steelband will per­ form traditional and popu­ lar calypso as well as reg­ gae songs on Feb. 15. Culi­ nary program students will prepare and serve Caribbe­ an-inspired appetizers to staff and students, includ­ ing jerk chicken wings, mini Jamaican patties, fried salt fish balls and veg­ etable rangoon wraps. • Munn's Public School (Oakville): Tonight (Feb. 8), the school will be hosting two performances to ho­ nour Black History Month. Grade 4 and 5 students will view The Spirit of Harriet Tubman, which depicts her life as an African-Ameri­ can abolitionist slave who helped many escape slav­ ery through the Under­ ground Railroad. Grade 6 to 8 students will view Things my Fore-Sisters Saw, writ­ ten and performed by Les­ lie McCurdy. The one-per­ son play will introduce stu­ dents to four black women who brought about signifi­ cant social change in Cana­ dian history. • Craig Kielburger Sec­ ondary School (Milton): Hairstyling and esthetics teachers will engage in a workshop about race and black hair on Feb. 21. • Limehouse Public School (Halton Hills): Throughout February, stu­ dents will share facts, con­ tributions and musical in­ fluences of black Canadi­ ans during morning an­ nouncements. In addition, the library will house a dis­ play to increase the school community's awareness of the month's celebrations. 40% Off 40% off any order of $1000 or more. 30% off any order of $700 or more on any Closet, Garage or Home Office. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $750 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Call for a free in hom e design consulta tion and estimate 1 844 612-9943 © w w w .c lo setsb yd esig n .ca 2013 © All Rights Reserved. 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