ARCDC Embraces African American Culture and History
February 2012

On Monday, February 27, 2012, ARCDC hosted its annual Black History Celebration entitled "Embracing African American Culture and History."

Every day during the month of February, a significant contributor to black history was presented on the morning announcements. Teachers were also provided with those biographies for use in their daily lessons.

The assembly was opened with a prayer by Connections student Keunta Washington and students and guests were welcomed by Connections student Jalisa Coleman. Eighth grade students Brook and Raini Rose performed a powerful rendition of The Star Spangled Banner, followed by a skit portraying Rosa Parks entitled "Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Round."

Dr. Theron Jackson provided an inspiring keynote speech. He highlighted and thanked black Americans for their many contributions that had helped him that morning, including the inventors of the light bulb filament, the stop light, the fountain pen, and the wrist watch to name a few. He then reminded students that, contrary to what our society states, they cannot be anything they want to be, but instead can only be what they prepare to be. "Preparation through education is the main thing," Jackson stated, "so keep the main thing your main thing!"

Next, the fourth grade class presented a shortened version of their skit "Buffalo Soldiers" and Principal Margaret A. Brown acknowledged some special contributions by Mr. Chris Long (daily black history biographies) and Mr. Bobby Brown (golf program).

Finally, Ms. Brown recognized Mr. Calvin O'Neal as ARCDC's Middle School Teacher of the Year. O'Neal was joined at the podium by his son, Calvin O'Neal, Jr., who is part of Moonbot Studios, the team that created the 2012 Academy Award-winning short film The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore.

On Tuesday, February 28, the faculty and staff enjoyed a soul food luncheon.

The month-long focus on African-American contributions throughout the history of the United States reminds us that no matter what our situation, we can always bring ourselves up by helping to bring others up.