Marshall ES Students Take Part in Black History Month Program
Community members, parents, and students will have the chance to learn more about Black History this month, as Marshall Elementary is set to host “A Journey of Dreams: A Celebration of Black History” on Thursday, February 23 at 5 p.m.
The program will consist of a play about three students who are working on a Black history project for class when they are transported back in time to meet some Black heroes.
For Kelli Lewis, CASE Teacher at Marshall Elementary, creating the play was personal.
“I love theater arts, and it's definitely a passion of mine. I also enjoy writing and the idea of doing a stage play came to me earlier in the school year,” she said. “A Black history play centered around the dreams, talents, and triumphs of historical figures that paved the way for us seemed perfect [for Black History Month].”
The program will begin with a choir singing “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often called the Black National Anthem. The play will follow, followed by a praise dance based on the life and work of Harriet Tubman.
Students involved with the program have been rehearsing every Wednesday after school, as well as working on their parts at home.
“My hope is that the students who participate experience improved reading comprehension, improved self-esteem by breaking out of their shell, and enjoy a non-traditional form of school through extra curricular activities,” Lewis said.
When preparations began for the play, Lewis asked the students involved if anyone had been to the theater with their families. None of the students involved had ever been. Lewis is hoping this will inspire a love of the arts in the students at Marshall Elementary. The show’s tagline — “Know the Past, Shape the Future” — is one that Lewis hopes students will take to heart.
“I am hopeful that this program will not only be beneficial and enriching for the students but it will also be a fun and exciting experience that offers family engagement,” she said. “It will offer them a free experience that they may not have had access to before.”
“A Journey of Dreams: A Celebration of Black History” is open to community members, as well as parents and students. It will be held at Marshall Elementary on Thursday, February 23, at 5 pm. For more information, call Marshall Elementary at 281-891-4900.
