Students, community members, district leaders, and more attended the 1st Annual Black Studies Showcase, presented by Seattle Public Schools Black Education Program.
On March 16, 2023, 22 students presented works of art, music, literature, and more, to showcase the work of Seattle Public Schools Black Education Program and a larger effort to improve academic and life outcomes for Students of Color.
The celebration highlighted students, teachers, district members, and included special remarks from author Dr. Gholdy Muhammad, Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones, and Director of College and Career Readiness Caleb Perkins. As the culmination of Dr. Keisha Scarlett’s ideas, the event was also made possible by Anita Koyier-Mwamba, Manager of Black Education, and Felicia Hope Patin, Project-Program Coordinator.
Following the introductions, students gave ‘TedTalk’ style presentations that covered a range of experience, emotion, and call to actions, and other students displayed their work where attendees were able to interact with each piece and discuss the meanings with the creators. To close the night, district leaders led an awards ceremony honoring students for their dedication to upholding and fostering an educational environment that is anti-racist, intersectional, and joyful.
Dr. Gholdy Muhammad made a virtual appearance and addressed Seattle Public School’s teachers and students, commending their district-wide commitment to celebrating and promoting equity within the classroom. She shared how joy, the fifth pursuit in her groundbreaking framework found within her latest title Unearthing Joy, can be used to elevate a student’s learning experience, and can also drive children to learn more about their world and make positive change. Dr. Muhammad has worked with Seattle Public Schools for years on professional development, advancing culturally responsive teaching practices, and much more.
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*Photos courtesy of Teresa Scribner, Assistant Communications Manager, Seattle Public Schools
