District 88 celebrates African American History Month

Throughout the month of February, Addison Trail and Willowbrook students and staff participated in events to celebrate African American History Month.

Addison Trail

  • A Spirit Week took place to celebrate African American History Month.

  • The Black Student Union (BSU) created display cases in the student cafeteria, the Library Media Center featured a book display (pictured above) and the English Department created a display in honor of the month.
  • Students created a PowerPoint presentation that was featured in the school’s Commons area.
  • The school played African American-inspired music during passing periods.
  • Quotes from accomplished African Americans were read during the school announcements.

  • On Feb. 18, Addison Trail alumna Nia Westerkamp (class of 2015) – now known as Nia Z – spoke with students. She's pictured above (in the red shirt) interacting with students. Nia helped establish the Black Student Union (BSU) at Addison Trail, and she's pictured (at bottom) with current BSU members. The purpose of her presentation, “You Can Create Your Daydreams,” is to inspire young people to create a life they will love living beyond the blueprint that is often presented from childhood. Read more about her presentation at https://www.dupage88.net/site/public/files/?item=4997.

  • On Feb. 20, Addison Trail and Willowbrook students watched the movie “Just Mercy” at the Marcus Addison Cinema (pictured above, top). They then had lunch and a networking opportunity at the District 88 Office, including a presentation from District 88 Superintendent Dr. Scott Helton (pictured above, bottom).

Willowbrook

  • The Black Organization for Student Success (BOSS) hosted a Spirit Day on Feb. 21 to recognize African American History Month.
  • The Blue Crew hosted a Spirit Week from Feb. 24 to 27 to recognize African American History Month.
  • Students in the Black Organization for Student Success (BOSS) shared information about the history, accomplishments and contributions of African Americans during announcements throughout February.
  • Students in the Black Organization for Student Success (BOSS) created a display case and the Library Media Center featured a book display in honor of the month.

  • On Feb. 20, Addison Trail and Willowbrook students watched the movie “Just Mercy” at the Marcus Addison Cinema (pictured above, top). They then had lunch and a networking opportunity at the District 88 Office, including a presentation from District 88 Superintendent Dr. Scott Helton (pictured above, bottom).

For more information about African American History Month, go to https://africanamericanhistorymonth.gov.