Students Celebrate Identity, Culture at Inaugural District Black History Month Social
- Rebecca Gilbuena
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
WOODBURY — More than 100 students from across South Washington County Schools gathered this month for the district’s first-ever Black History Month High School Student Social, an event designed to celebrate identity, culture and connection while helping students explore future career paths.
The event brought together students from East Ridge High School, Park High School, Woodbury High School, South Washington Alternative High School and Washington County’s Next Step/Pathways Transition programs. District leaders said the goal was to create a space centered on affirmation, leadership development and cultural pride.
South Washington County Schools designed the social as a districtwide opportunity for students who identify as Black, African American or as allies to come together across school buildings.
“It’s just a way for us to celebrate them, let them feel seen, heard, valued and respected. It’s also an opportunity for students to network with each other and connect, to meet people from other schools,” said Naitoh Kai, cultural liaison at East Ridge High School.
The day included breakout sessions focused on Black culture and the Black experience within the district, as well as a social lunch period, music and dancing. Students even created an original song that will be published soon!
Organizers also invited Black entrepreneurs, community leaders and professionals to speak with students about their careers and experiences. Students had the opportunity to hear from panelists about their businesses and professions and to ask questions about career pathways.
“We have panelists that are coming, that are talking about their businesses, their professions, and students will be able to interact with them as well,” Naitoh said.
Ashley Acosta-Meyers, the district’s DEI supervisor, said the event was meant to build on work students are already leading within their own schools.
“A lot of the time students are super active in putting together these types of events at their schools, and we wanted to give them a chance to come together from across the district and do something for them,” Ashley said, adding that cultural celebrations can serve as reminders of the broader purpose of education.
“Sometimes when there are points in history or points in society where we feel like we’re at different places, it’s important to remind people what this is about — what education is about — which is people,” she said.
Students who attended the gathering highlighted the importance of understanding and preserving cultural heritage.
“When you don’t worry about your culture, a lot of things get lost — traditions get lost,” said Ayo O, a student participant. “So it’s good to know where you come from.”
Nevaeh W described the social as both educational and relational.
“I feel like it’s just a learning experience, so you can know more about yourself,” she said. “I feel like it’s also a way to connect with other people just like you, in a way.”
Goodness A said the event also honored the history behind Black History Month.
“It shows all our struggle that we’ve gone through as Black individuals, and it tells a story that we’re all coming together to show our respects to it,” she said.
District leaders said the Black History Month High School Student Social may serve as a foundation for similar student-centered cultural events in the future, aimed at fostering connection, leadership and a deeper understanding of history among students.
