The Principal of Equity and Inclusion for the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) says students across the region will be learning about black history for the next few weeks.
“The communities that we serve are more diverse than ever before and it is very important that all students, staff and families see themselves reflected in our schools and curriculum,” explains Dan McRae. “I’m proud that our schools are celebrating Black History Month and that we have also made an everyday commitment to recognize, teach and celebrate members of the black community who have made significant contributions to Canada and around the world but who have historically not received the same recognition as their peers.”
Communications Manager April Scott-Clarke says students will spend February reading books, poems and graphic novels written by black authors, watching Heritage Minutes about black historical figures, and “participating in classroom discussions around race, culture and more.”
Board chair John McAllister says education during Black History Month is important for making sure all students feel like they belong in their school community.
“Our community is changing and if we don’t change along with it, we won’t be serving our students or families well and that hurts us all,” he explains. “I’m proud we are celebrating Black History Month, but I’m also very proud that students are learning about culture, racism, and social justice issues all year long.”
We’ve reached out to North Grenville District High School principal Christopher Bourne to learn what students there will be doing to mark Black History Month.