An Equity & Inclusion Message
“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.”
—Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African-American female astronaut
Dear Isle of Wight County Schools and Community Members,
Happy Black History Month!
Today is the first day of the United States’ annual observance of Black History. This month-long celebration is designed to increase awareness of Black History, and to encourage critical dialogue regarding issues of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Black History month is a time to reflect and celebrate the sacrifices and achievements of Black people. Black people have made numerous contributions to American society, which include science and technology, education, law and policy, entertainment and sports. Sharing the accomplishments of Black people with our students is a valuable experience and fosters an inclusive learning environment.
Black History is American History and it reveals the humanity in us all. We must acknowledge and give an accurate depiction of Black History. This includes the harsh reality of slavery, the struggle for justice during the civil rights movement, and the current disparities that Black people continue to face. Nevertheless, the story of Black people is an uplifting one. It is a story of perseverance and of a country fulfilling its promise to become a more “perfect union”.
I hope that in Isle of Wight County Schools, we can extend this month’s practice of incorporating the history of marginalized communities and conversations into our classrooms, educational programs, and community dialogues. Thurgood Marshall said, "In recognizing the humanity of our fellow beings, we pay ourselves the highest tribute."
Please join us for our Black History events throughout the month. It is a celebration of Equity and Inclusion!
Kind Regards,
Kiyaana Cox Jones
Coordinator of Equity & Inclusion
IWCS Black History Month Events
Celebration Wednesdays
Every Wednesday
A weekly video celebrating Black People, Black Excellence, Black Achievements, and Black History.
#WednesdayMotivations #WinningWednesday #WisdomWednesday
Black Resilience: Extraordinary History, Extraordinary People
Thursday, February 25, 2021
A virtual Black History Program featuring IWCS students, community leaders, NAACP and special guests.
Black Excellence: A Virtual Classroom Experience
February 15 - February 26
Choose from a list of pre-recorded videos from Black professionals locally and across the nation to come into your classroom and read a book, encourage students, and celebrate Black History.
*Some in-person options available
Looking Ahead To Equity
Equity Phase I
Presented at the February 11 School Board meeting.
VSBA Equity in Education Month
March 2021
Women’s Empowerment Month
March 2021
"Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us."
- Wilma Rudolph, U.S. track and field athlete