Each year in February, staff and students celebrate Black History Month. Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history. The concept of Black History Month was created by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a scholar, activist, author, and historian. He has come to be known as the “Father of Black History” for his efforts to amplify the experiences, histories, and key contributions of Black peoples throughout American history. You can read Woodson’s full biography here. During February, we celebrate the accomplishments, contributions, and leadership of African Americans. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history.

Gold scale balance with rays shooting upEquity is a central pillar of our WSD Strategic Plan 2025.  The school board and staff are committed to disrupt unjust educational systems that perpetuate inequitable opportunities and outcomes for students.  Recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of African Americans is core to our work to know, nurture, and challenge all students to rise.  During the 2020-21 school year, all Washougal teachers have engaged in Culturally Response Classroom Management professional development that will foster meaningful relationships between students and teachers, build a sense of community in each classroom, and provide a supportive environment where all students rise.

Here are some resources to help you bring Black history into the classroom this month and beyond, as a critical part of our full American history.

Black History Month Ideas and Resources

Juneteenth Ideas and Resources

our black students want to hear that black lives matter to us, and they do. Washougal School District Board of Directors, Dr. Mary Templeton, Superintendent, and Washougal School District Leadership team on green and brown background with district logo and equity stamp