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The prominent historian Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week, which later became Black History Month to celebrate the rich history of the African diaspora in the United States. Specifically, Woodson sought to highlight the contributions of not just famous greats, but of countless African Americans to the advancement of America. In honor of his efforts, this KIPP in the Community will celebrate and encourage everyday heroes. Heroes like Mr. Prather who recognized his students by creating a robust self-care day. Or, the mentors, moms, fathers, and guardians who attended the Young Men’s Empowerment Summit to support students. Or, the school leaders, teachers, staff and students who gave hours of their time and talents to various Black History Month events at all of our campuses. Thus, Black History Month reminds us of sacrifice and achievement, but also encourages and propels us to push forward.
-Althea Holford, Managing Director of Community & Government Affairs
Around Town:
Black History Month at KIPP DC
From discussion panels, historical dress-up days, door decorations, to live museum walks and performances–our students celebrated the past and showcased their excellence during Black History Month. Throughout February, we sat with our KIPP DC teachers for our #KIPPDCBlackVoices campaign, where teachers shared their hopes and dreams for their students. KIPP DC College Preparatory hosted the “Family Reunion” Black History Month performance which included performances from all of our KIPP DC schools. KIPP DC Heights Academy hosted “My Black Hair is Beautiful”day where local barbers and stylists gave students fresh hairstyles while learning about the history of Black hair! It was great to see our community come together for Black History Month in celebration of the past, present, and future!
3rd Annual Young Men’s Empowerment Summit
On February 8, we welcomed more than 150 young men, fathers, mentors, and community members to KIPP DC College Preparatory for our 3rd annual Young Men’s Empowerment Summit. This year’s theme was “Knowledge is Power.” Students and adults left with resources around social justice, fiscal responsibility, and health & wellness.
3rd Annual G.E.M.S Summit
On March 8, we’re kicking off Women’s History Month with the 3rd annual Girls Embracing Their Magic & Strength (G.E.M.S.) Summit! The G.E.M.S. summit will address the pressures that students are facing by focusing sessions on wellness, coping with stress, beauty especially as it relates to social media, belonging, and what it means to be a young woman of color today. We look forward to welcoming all young women and their guardians for a day of empowerment!
KIPP DC Testify Before DC City Council
On February 20, KIPP DC’s senior director of compliance Kelli Whelan, and KIPP DC’s school leader support advisor Abe Clayman, testified before the DC City Council’s Committee on Health. They testified on the need for increased support from the Department of Health for our students, including increasing the number of school nurses and crossing guards available. We look forward to continuing these conversations with city leaders to help increase access and resources to our students.
Ellen Surprises KIPP DC Teacher & Students
We were thrilled to see our KIPP DC Arts & Technology students and teacher Mr. Prather on national television in February when they were invited to The Ellen DeGeneres Show! During the winter, Mr. Prather went above and beyond the call of duty to provide a self-care day for his students. Students received haircuts, nail painting, and learned about the importance of self-care. We’re proud to have great educators going above and beyond for students! Watch KIPPsters on Ellen!
Community Engagement Team in New Orleans
This month, the KIPP DC engagement team traveled to New Orleans to lead a workshop on parent and family engagement for KIPP regions from around the country. During the workshop, we shared best practices on building a coalition of dedicated parent partners, increasing family and community engagement, and supporting and engaging community leaders and business owners.
