Visitors who walked down the halls of Edward J. Bosti, Cherokee Street, Helen B. Duffield, Idle Hour, John Pearl and Edith Slocum elementary schools this February will have noticed the array of research projects and artwork that celebrates the contributions of black Americans to this nation’s history. Throughout the month, students learned about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his iconic “I Have a Dream Speech,” as well as the accomplishments of black authors, artists, musicians, business owners, writers and more.

At Idle Hour Elementary School, fifth grade students spent the month researching the contributions of black Americans. In their reports, the students included an in-depth biography of the person they studied, including Thurgood Marshall, Sojourner Truth, Ruby Bridges, Harriet Tubman, Booker T. Washington and others. The reports and a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was placed in the hallway for all students to learn from.

John Pearl Elementary School students celebrated Black History Month through art.

After reading about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s and other black Americans’ accomplishments, the students put together individually decorated pieces of a colorful “I Have a Dream” mural, which included similar quotes to the civil rights leader’s teachings about kindness, family, togetherness and love of oneself and others.

Date Added: 2/24/2023

During the week of Feb. 13-17, John Pearl Elementary School students celebrated the districtwide Dignity for All Students Week, reinforcing the initiative to step up and speak out against bullying. Throughout the week’s activities, students learned that by showing respect and dignity for others daily, they can spread more love, kindness and gratitude and create a more peaceful world without conflict.

Students attended workshops presented by The Safe Center Long Island and Northwell Health geared at teaching them to make good decisions and to stand by their values. Fifth grade students also had the opportunity to Chalk the Walk, in which they used chalk to write inspirational messages on the front sidewalk and path leading up to the school, setting the tone for the week. There was also an Appreciation Station in the cafeteria where students could write appreciation cards to faculty or a peer, telling them how much they are appreciated.

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Date Added: 2/21/2023

Date Added: 2/1/2023