Atlantic City's Pennsylvania Avenue School's Black History Month Celebration

The Pennsylvania Avenue Elementary School recently honored Black History Month with a vibrant celebration centered around music. The event paid tribute to the rich musical heritage that has shaped African American history and culture, bringing together students, teachers, and the community for an unforgettable experience.

The program opened with a powerful gospel segment, featuring students singing "Lift Every Voice and Sing," often referred to as the Black national anthem. This emotional start set the tone for the evening, followed by an uplifting performance of "This Little Light of Mine." Students also shared poetry readings highlighting iconic figures like Harriet Tubman and Langston Hughes, reinforcing the event’s educational significance.

A standout moment was the "Throwback to our Music in History" segment, where students performed lively lip sync tributes to Boyz II Men and TLC, capturing the spirit of these legendary groups. The performances were both nostalgic and enlightening, introducing younger students to influential artists from the past.

The event was led by Dr. Nycole P. Lyles-Belton, who served as emcee, alongside Elementary School Teacher Shaylyn Neal, both of whom worked to ensure the program connected students to their cultural roots through music. Lyles-Belton emphasized the importance of celebrating Black music, stating, "Not only does it sound good, but it makes us feel good."

The celebration ended with a powerful group performance of "We Are the World," symbolizing unity, diversity, and the enduring influence of African American music. Principal Thomas Biggins expressed his pride in the students, highlighting how the event encouraged them to recognize the contributions of historical figures and apply those lessons to their own lives.

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Photos submitted by: Atlantic City High School Photography Class