HMS Black History Month flyer (Humphreys Middle School )
On Thursday, February 29, 2024, Humphreys Middle School (HMS) showcased an exceptional Black History Month Program, organized by HMS Counselor Ms. Destiny Jordan along with dedicated staff members and students. The event, held during the advisory period, was a resounding success, attended by both 5th and 6th graders at 1:45 p.m. and 7th and 8th graders at 2:25 p.m., under the theme “African Americans and the Arts.”
The program kicked off with a soul-stirring performance by the HMS choir, led by Ms. Virginia Ford, who thrilled the audience with renditions of “We Shall Overcome” and “Lean on Me.” Following this, the Phoenix Steppers took the stage, attracting everyone’s attention with a dynamic step performance. Adding to the profound atmosphere, four female students delivered moving verses from Maya Angelou’s renowned poem, “I Rise.”
Beautiful art display by HMS students and Art Teachers: Ms. Susan Miller and Ms. Margaret Zudock-Gilliam (Humphreys Middle School )
Beautiful art display by HMS students and Art Teachers: Ms. Susan Miller and Ms. Margaret Zudock-Gilliam (Humphreys Middle School )
HMS Black History Month participants with event organizer/ HMS Counselor Ms. Destiny Jordan and Administrative Officer Mr. Michael Robinson (Humphreys Middle School )
HMS students reading poems by Langston Hughes: “I Look to the World” – Thomas Summer, 8th grade “Mother to Son” – Mervee Blackett, 7th grade; “Harlem” – Taeyang Alex, 6th grade; and “Dream” – Draylen Douglas, 5th grade (Humphreys Middle School )
HMS Phoenix Steppers (Humphreys Middle School )
50th Anniversary of Hip Hop video presentation by Dr. Siira and HMS video production students. (Humphreys Middle School )
HMS students reading Mayou Angelo famous poem, “I Still Rise”: Aubriyanna Thompson, 8th grade; Alexis McCantis, 7th grade; Charlesie Sherlock, 6th grade; and Lydia Foxx, 5th grade (Humphreys Middle School )
HMS Choir singing a melody “We Shall Overcome/Lean On Me” led by HMS Music Teacher Ms. Virginia Ford (Humphreys Middle School )
HMS students serving as master of ceremony: Tre’Shaune Johnson-Griffin and Tyson Stewart (Humphreys Middle School )
8th grader Angel Tabaquero (Humphreys Middle School )
Highlighting the musical talents within HMS, 8th grader Angel Tabaquero mesmerized the audience with a solo rendition of Stevie Wonder’s “Over Joy,” accompanied by a display of iconic R&B artists and groups on the big screen. The program continued with four male students reciting inspirational poems by Langston Hughes, including “I Look to the World,” “Mother to Son,” “Harlem,” and “Dream.”
Closing the event on a celebratory note, the program paid homage to the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop. HMS Video Production students created a lively video featuring staff members attempting to complete phrases from famous R&B songs, delighting the audience with their enthusiasm and spirit.
Additionally, the HMS Arts Department contributed to the background of the auditorium with visually striking displays inspired by the works of African American artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, showcasing the intersection of art and cultural expression.
The program was met with widespread acclaim from parents, visitors, staff, and students alike, who expressed their appreciation for the meaningful and entertaining presentations throughout the event. It was indeed a testament to the commitment and talent present within the HMS community.
Congratulations to Humphreys Middle School on a well-executed and memorable Black History Month Program, demonstrating the importance of honoring and celebrating African American heritage and contributions to the arts.
