Black History Month Resources

February is the start of Black History Month. All of the information on our Black Lives Matter at Schools Week of Action in 2023, taking place from Feb 6-10, is listed on the flyer above.

We'd love for every classroom in the district to join us in recognizing the Black Lives Matter at School Week of Action. This year's materials will consist of a brief tool kit of activities centered around movie viewing, guided discussion, writing prompts, and a door decorating contest. 

Share this far and wide! People are more likely to participate if they hear it being talked about. Students are more likely to feel seen and to learn if the whole school celebrates. If you're at a school where admin shares out a weekly memo, please feel free to forward this to them to share out with the wider school community. Share your photos with photos@btu.org. 

Another big part of BLM @ School is sharing the load. Here is another place you can share your own projects and resources that you are willing to share with others! We're eager to hear how things go, so please look out for a report-back form where you can share your thoughts. Please share your suggestions and what helped most to help planning for years to come.

We're so excited about all of the amazing teaching and learning that is happening in our schools! 

See also last year's toolkit compiled by The BLM at School committee including a list of movies for each grade band that we've matched to the 13 guiding principles of the BLM movement.

We also want to acknowledge the tragic death of Tyre Nichols in Memphis. As Congresswoman Pressley stated, "Black men deserve to grow old." It should not have to be stated, yet we are mourning his untimely death. Please also see AFT statement from President Weingarten. We will continue to advocate for justice for Tyre and the many other Black Americans who have been killed due to violent and unjustifiable actions resulting from police brutality. Black Lives Matter - always - including in our schools.

Lastly, don't forget to order your BLM at Schools t-shirt! This year's t-shirt design winner, Erick Tirado, is a student at the BINCA. He shared: "My inspiration comes from my country, Dominican Republic. I started drawing 2 years ago, and last year, I began working on an iPad. The design for BLM tshirt was done on an iPad. Now I want to find opportunities for art programs that help develop my own style."

Please purchase a shirt using this link to show solidarity in the movement, support this young artist, and remind our students they matter. Shipping is included in the cost of this shirt. Please do not add any other items in the BTU Swag Shop to your order for this shirt. Order today!