February is here, and it is time to celebrate the rich history and contributions of African Americans to our country. This year's Black History Month Theme is "African Americans and the Arts."

To kick off our Black History celebration, during Advisory on Friday, February 2nd, we hosted a Historically Black College/University (HBCU) & Career Panel where students could learn about educational and career opportunities. Our panel featured alums from various HBCUs, such as Hampton University, Howard University, Florida A&M, Alcorn State University, and North Carolina Central University. Many participants are leaders and mentors representing a variety of career fields. Serving on the panel were a few of our very own faculty (Ms. Anjelica Anderson, Mr. Marvin Wooten, Ms. Charlene Ragins, and Officer J. Cottom) and then a former SOCO student, Zion Eldridge, who is currently attending Howard University. Teachers were invited to sign up to bring their Advisory classes, and students could also sign up individually. Students shared that the panel was very informative and shed light on the opportunities and experiences that HBCUs provide.

Other activities that will be featured this month are as follows:

• Musicians Panel: Featuring local artists who will share their perspectives on the impact of music in our society.
• Black Fraternity and Sorority Stroll Exhibition & Panel: Feature a "stroll/party hop" exhibition from collegiate members/alumni and discussion about the history of the "Divine Nine."
• Student Talent Showcase: Featuring our SOCO students where they will share varied cultural expressions and artistry.
• Soul Food Tasting for South County Staff: Luncheon where staff members will share traditional "Soul Food" dishes.

A Door Decoration Showcase and Competition, sponsored by our amazing Social Studies department, will be held to celebrate this year's theme, "African Americans and the Arts." Our creative staff will definitively showcase their skills to create decorative doors that are fun, festive, and informative.

Also, each Thursday in February will highlight a spirit day where students and staff can participate by wearing the featured attire: 

• Thursday 2/1 - Sunday's Best: Dress to Impress
• Thursday 2/8 - Griots: Shirts with Affirming and Positive Messages
• Thursday 2/15 - Musicians: Dress like your Favorite Music Artist
• Thursday 2/22 - Cultural Wear: Represent your Culture
• Thursday 2/29 - Pan African Colors: Red, Black, Green, Yellow

A special THANK YOU to our staff members, Mr. Miller, Mr. Mims, Ms. Lipsey, Ms. Pipkin, Ms. Hill, Ms. Straughn, our Social Studies Department, and members of our Black Student Alliance for coordinating and supporting the various events and programs to celebrate the vast contributions of Black Americans. Black History is American History!

 For ideas, lessons, activities, and events, please visit https://blackhistorymonth.gov/ for a wealth of resources.