For nearly three decades, the Harborfields Central School District has hosted a Black History Month celebration, during which students from each of the district’s schools recognize the accomplishments and contributions of African American trailblazers throughout American history. While this year’s performance was held virtually to adhere to safety guidelines, it did not disappoint.
To kick off the celebration, Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Rory Manning acknowledged the Black History Month committee, consisting of teachers and administrators, and each of the schools’ custodial staff for ensuring safe spaces for the night’s performers to rehearse. Additionally, he thanked Harborfields High School Senior Class President Melina Sandel for her contribution to the production of the virtual celebration.
This year’s theme: dreams, was evident in each of the students’ performances, including Washington Drive Primary School’s original song, “Washington Drive has a dream for all,” and Thomas J. Lahey Elementary School’s original poem “Dreams.”
Students from Oldfield Middle School represented this year’s theme through artwork and at Harborfields High School through music and dance.
The virtual celebration also welcomed special guests, including Al Roker from NBC’s the Today Show, Broadway star Derrick Davis, New York State Commissioner Tracey Edwards and Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr. Each spoke to the strength and resiliency that Harborfields students have shown throughout the past year and offered advice for their futures.
“Being that we’re celebrating the accomplishments of trailblazing women and men, I just want to encourage you to consider the work that went into those accomplishments,” Mr. Davis said. “While you’re going through school and preparing for your future and dreaming big, make sure you’re putting in the work because that’s the only way that you’ll be prepared. It’s all a journey, but every step that you take forward takes the strength from the step before it to get you there.”