Celebrating Black History Month by decorating classroom doors
With February being Black History Month, Cedar Shoals High School (CSHS) teachers and students participated in a door decorating contest to help spread awareness about the importance of learning about of black history and culture.
Each hallway has its own unique theme. AP Literature teacher Tara Stuart’s hallway (C200) theme was writing based. Stuart gathered students to work on the project and learn more about the history of black writers. Projects like these benefit students by giving them the opportunity to use their creativity, Stuart says.
“I have a bunch of really creative students in AP Lit, so letting them choose to work on something like art, graphic design or typography, writing and the kids who really love writing do that,” Stewart said.
AP environmental science teacher Debbie Mitchell’s students decorated her door as a part of the contest. Junior Claire Meyer and junior Erick Solis-Gatica helped lead the project. Meyer believes that decorating the doors is important because it shows people how African American people help shape the world around us.
“Having a Black History Month door represents the people that are all around us and the people that make our society function,” Meyer said.
Sophomore Tatyana Bolton helped with the door in business teacher Ka’lah Paige’s class. Bolton believes that the project was a good way for her to express herself.
“I learned a lot from my own people and it gives me a feeling that I can express myself, whether it’s through art or just speaking up, or even decorating a door it helps,” Bolton said.
Stuart’s door is decorated with the intention to highlight different cultures that make up Cedar Shoals to recognize their achievements
“I think in all cases representation is so important. I know it’s only just one mark, but I think highlighting people of color and the things they’ve done and celebrating diversity is really important,” Stuart said.
The grand prize winner of the contest is Karen Richburg she will receive 2 pizzas for her class or her door team. Spotlight award winners were Ms. Lawrence for most creative concept, Ms. Minus for best use of theme and Ms. Spenser for best craftsmanship.
