“Real education means to inspire people to live more abundantly, to learn to begin with life as they find it and make it better.” ― Carter G. Woodson
This February, IDEA Public Schools is proud to join our nation in honoring Black History Month. The celebratory month, also known as National African American History Month, is an annual celebration of achievements by Black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in the story of the United States of America.
Founded by historian Carter G. Woodson, Negro History Week was first celebrated the second week of February. Woodson’s vision was for public schools across the nation to collectively teach the history of Black Americans throughout this coordinated week. By the late 1960s, through the civil rights movement and growing awareness of Black identity, Negro History Week had evolved into Black History Month on many college campuses.
In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month during the U.S. bicentennial, expanding Negro History Week into a month-long celebration. He called upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Since then, U.S. presidents have designated February as Black History Month each year.
At IDEA Public Schools, we believe that providing all children with a quality education—regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic background—is essential to a more equal America. As the opportunity gap remains starkly wide in our country, the importance of a college degree has never been more important. We ensure equity by staying rooted in our mission to serve our community through education and college preparation, particularly traditionally underserved communities and communities of color. We are proud to say that 1,585 IDEA staff members—15% of our workforce—and 9,030 IDEA scholars—13% of our student body—identify as Black. This commitment to ensuring equity is part of our organizational core values.
Campuses across all of our regions are teaching lessons and holding events in honor of Black History Month. Be sure to check out IDEA’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram as we document the amazing happenings taking place across our campuses to educate, celebrate, and reflect upon black history.
Join our mission by becoming a part of the IDEA Team & Family, and make sure to take time to celebrate and honor the contributions of African Americans throughout history.
