The Lower School celebrates Black excellence and cultural contributions

In honor of Black History Month, the Lower School gathered in Millie’s Garden to celebrate Black Joy through creativity, connection, and shared experience. The gathering opened with a welcome led by Black Student Union members Brie, Micah, and Nana, setting a tone of joy, reflection, and belonging.

Students then participated in rotating Black Joy stations made possible through close collaboration between faculty and Lower School families. At the art station, students explored the vibrant work of Alma Woodsey Thomas, creating collaborative murals guided by faculty and family volunteers Jasmine and Joel Griffith and Connie Woods. The experience emphasized creativity, shared effort, and the joy of building something together.

Kindergarten and first grade students gathered in Millie’s Garden and the kitchen to engage with the work of chef and community leader Marcus Samuelsson. Supported by family facilitators Stanley and Elizabeth Henriquez and Nissa Whittle, students reflected on food as a way to show care for others through a neighborhood “potluck” mural and tasting.

Second and third grade students explored music and social impact through the legacy of Stevie Wonder, creating instruments and reflecting on themes of joy, unity, and justice with support from faculty and family facilitators Sam Yenn-Batah. Fourth graders engaged in hands-on STEM learning inspired by Madame C.J. Walker, guided by faculty and KaNeda Bullock, connecting creativity, entrepreneurship, and service to others.

The gathering concluded with a shared reflection in Millie’s Garden, grounding the morning in gratitude and collective joy.

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