Burton Elementary Celebrated Black History Month with Schoolwide Event

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) - Burton Elementary School proudly hosted its annual Black History Month Celebration on Friday, February 27, 2026, bringing together scholars, staff, and families for a day of learning, reflection, and joy.

The purpose of the celebration was to honor the achievements of Black Americans, recognize the strength and brilliance of Black communities, highlight important history that is often underrepresented, and help scholars grow their understanding of different cultures.

Before rotating through the celebration stations, scholars received a special message to guide their learning: “Today we are learning about and celebrating Black history and cultures. These stations show us examples of traditions, art, and contributions from parts of Africa and the African diaspora. This is just a small piece of the many cultures that exist. We learn about different cultures to grow in respect, curiosity, and understanding.”

A Day of Exploration and Celebration

All grade levels, kindergarten through 5th grade, rotated through six engaging stations designed to educate and inspire.

1. Craft Station – Maasai-Inspired Necklaces
Scholars created colorful necklaces inspired by the beadwork of the Maasai people of East Africa. Through this hands-on activity, scholars learned how art can reflect identity, tradition, and community.

2. Dance Station – Cha Cha Slide
Energy filled the room as scholars participated in the Cha Cha Slide. As part of the fun, scholars explored how music and dance play a powerful role in bringing people together.

3. Snack Station – Banana Pudding and Cornbread
Scholars enjoyed banana pudding and cornbread while learning about the cultural and historical significance of these foods. This station connected culinary traditions to history, family, and Black resilience.

4. Game Station - Hero Bingo
Through an interactive game of bingo, scholars learned about important Black heroes who have shaped history through leadership, innovation, courage, and advocacy.

5. Music Station – Jazz and Call & Response
At the music station, scholars explored jazz and the call-and-response tradition rooted in African and African American history. The activities connected directly to what scholars have learned in their music classes, showing how music can be used for storytelling, communication, and cultural expression.

6. Choice Station – Classroom Activity 
In classrooms, teachers led read-alouds and shared videos focused on Black history, allowing scholars to reflect more deeply on stories of achievement and perseverance.

Community Voices

Families, district leaders, and neighborhood partners were invited to participate in the celebration, strengthening the partnership between school and community. 

Deanna Roby, mother of first grader Zhayden Roby-Dicks, attended the celebration to support her son and take part in the day’s activities. “I wanted to come to support my child and Black History Month. It was fun and educational,” she said. 

SEL Consultant, Alma Obande, highlighted the broader impact of the celebration: “Burton Elementary does a great job of celebrating all of their scholars. This event is part of that.”

When asked why she organized the Black History Month celebration, Principal Amarena Nelson shared, “It was important to do this because I want all of our scholars to feel seen and know that our school is a place where they belong.”

Building Understanding and Unity

The Black History Month Celebration at Burton Elementary was more than a single day of activities. It was an opportunity for scholars to grow in their understanding of history, culture, and community. Through art, music, food, dance, and storytelling, scholars gained a deeper appreciation for the many contributions of Black Americans and the richness of Black cultures around the world.

Most importantly, the event reinforced Burton Elementary’s commitment to creating a school environment where every scholar feels valued, respected, and celebrated.