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Celebrating Black History Month

By Malia Gregory
In honor of Black History Month, JTD hosted a series of events throughout the month of February to celebrate the rich culture of the Black community. In Library class, parents, faculty, and staff were invited to participate in the National African American Read-In, where the adults in our community read stories to students by Black authors featuring Black characters. Students then completed follow-up reflection activities guided by our Librarian.
JTD also had the honor of hosting acclaimed author Ada Ari. Students were captivated by Ms. Ari’s engaging storytelling as she read her book The Spider’s Thin Legs, a retelling of a classic African folktale. Ms. Ari showed students how to properly wear Kente cloth, and demonstrated the daily customs of carrying baskets on your head and wearing babies tied to your back. Students had the opportunity to witness firsthand how traditional materials continue to be utilized in crafting everyday objects even in modern times. Throughout Ms. Ari’s storytelling and music, JTD students made connections to their lives and identities, learning about the importance of being a global citizen. 

Students in Culture Club were treated to a screening of the Oscar-winning movie short, "Hair Love." This heartwarming story touched on themes of identity, representation, and beauty. Afterwards, students engaged in a reflective session by creating flip books dedicated to celebrating their personal goals, self-appreciation, and envisioned impact on the world. This activity served as a meaningful opportunity for students to bolster their self-esteem and cultivate confidence in themselves.

Our adult community also had a chance to come together in a special meeting of Collage, which is a group sponsored jointly by the Parents' Association and the JTD Administration. In celebration of Black History Month, Collage provided a space for parents to discuss race and representation, with a goal of supporting children to have a positive reflection on identities and cultural histories— for both themselves and others.

Both students and adults alike enjoyed the many wonderful opportunities to learn about and celebrate Black culture and history through these special events.

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The John Thomas Dye School


11414 Chalon Road
Los Angeles, CA 90049
Phone: (310) 476-2811
The John Thomas Dye School admits students of any race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic or other school-administered programs.

Located In Los Angeles, CA, John Thomas Dye is an independent school for grades K-6. Students benefit from a challenging academic program, fine arts, competitive athletics, and a wide selection of extracurricular activities.