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At Crawford Adventist Academy Elementary, celebrating the diversity of God’s children is an important part of our school culture. Throughout February, our students engaged in meaningful learning experiences that highlighted the achievements, resilience, and contributions of Black Canadians and Americans.

This year marked the 30th anniversary of Canada’s official recognition of Black History Month. In keeping with the national theme, “Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations,” teachers integrated Black history into daily instruction. Students researched influential Black figures whose leadership and innovation have shaped society, encouraging reflection and a deeper understanding of their lasting impact.

On February 9–10, 2026, Birkett Educational Consultants provided enrichment sessions for children from Kindergarten to Grade 8.

• K–3 students enjoyed storytelling sessions that helped them explore the lives of Black Canadians while strengthening their understanding of story elements such as setting and plot.
• Grades 4–8 students participated in thoughtful discussions about Black Canadian history and wrote reflective pieces that demonstrated strong critical thinking and growing awareness of the contributions and challenges experienced by Black communities.

A special highlight of the month was the Black History Assembly on February 25, organised by the Grade 6 class under the leadership of Mrs. Charmaine Jamieson. The program featured a creative dialogue performed by students Justina Rose and Trissari Chambers, celebrating inventions such as Garrett Morgan’s three-light traffic signal. Students also presented portions of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, accompanied by rhythmic snapping, clapping, and Civil Rights songs, including We Shall Overcome and This Little Light of Mine. The performance emphasised themes of hope, courage, and equality.

The assembly concluded with Principal Chichester interviewing educators Mrs. Charmaine Jamieson, Ms. Jewel Scott, and Pastor Sherry Augustus, who reflected on their roles in shaping students spiritually and academically.

We honour these leaders—and all Black educators—who continue to inspire young minds for time and eternity.

Lauren Chichester
Principal (JK–8)