The second annual Black History Month Celebration took place at Carter G. Woodson High School, hosted by Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS). The event carried the theme “Rooted in Resilience: Echoes of Excellence” and coincided with the 100th anniversary of the movement that led to Black History Month.
Black History Month began as Negro History Week in 1926, founded by Carter G. Woodson, who is known as the “Father of Black History.” Woodson aimed for a comprehensive recognition of American history as a shared narrative.
Montell Brown, assistant principal at Centreville High School and master of ceremonies for the evening, addressed attendees by saying, “To be Black in America means that we live within a profound duality. It’s an experience that is marked by oppression and extraordinary achievement, historical trauma, and transformational progress.”
Students played a central role in the program. They presented “Moments of Pride,” connecting historical figures to current accomplishments. Jamie Barnes, a sixth grader from Saratoga Elementary, spoke about dancer and author Misty Copeland. Seniors from Marshall High School discussed activists such as Bayard Rustin and entrepreneur Madam C. J. Walker.
Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. Reid highlighted local contributions to education: “Excellence looked like educators like Mrs. Louise Archer, right here in Fairfax County, who believed in children even before the system believed in those children,” she said.
Vernon Walton, senior pastor at the First Baptist Church of Vienna, delivered the keynote speech. He emphasized collective responsibility for honoring history: “Your story matters today,” he told students. “Not someday, not tomorrow — but today.”
The celebration also included an FCPS Black Excellence video tribute featuring achievements from students, staff, and alumni throughout the county.
Chief Equity Officer Nardos King closed out the event with remarks focused on continued commitment: “Our students are watching us. They are learning from us, and they are depending on us to keep creating spaces where their voices matter and their stories are honored,” King said. “Let’s not let this be an ending, but a charge to continue showing up for every child, every day, with the same pride, purpose, and belief we felt in this room tonight.”
The event ended with music and underscored FCPS’s ongoing efforts to celebrate excellence across generations.
