PCHS does more to celebrate African American History

Amelia Capellan – PCHS Bulletin 

As February comes to a close, Parrish Community High School continues to find more ways to celebrate African American history.  

Austin Henderson, a world history and US history teacher, has had students create various projects inspired by black history. Some of those projects can be found in building 6 near his classroom. These projects focus on famous African American artists such as poets, authors, singers, and dancers.

Henderson wanted to go farther than well-known African American leaders and topics discussed and even did some projects on Afro-Latinos to spotlight some of the contributions that originated from their community. 

Other projects shed light on African American inventors, such as Garrett Morgan who invented the traffic light, a device that revolutionized transportation. Or George Speck, an African American cook who invented potato chips. These are not commonly known facts, which is why Henderson wanted to share them. Making these projects was a way for students to not only educate themselves but also help to educate others on the African American community and their contributions to our technology and education today. Another type of project made by the classes was cultural timelines. Students would choose one of their interests (example: literature/reading) and make a timeline on the impact and contributions of the African American community speaking to that subject.  

Henderson, a member of the African American community, wanted to be a positive influence and share important messages with his students and those around him. He took one day to plan out these projects for the entire month and students worked on a new project every week. The students enjoyed these projects and were “excited to share and learn what they're interested in and incorporate African American History Month into it.”

The motivation for these projects was to “pass down black history onto students and broaden their horizons.” This was a great opportunity for students to learn more about and appreciate African American contributions to our society today. The message that Henderson intends to share with these projects is that “every culture, every person plays a pivotal role in life. We are all one." 

These projects are important additions to our school that honor Black History Month and the African Americans that have shaped our community into what it is now. The students now have a better understanding and appreciation for African American History Month.