CELEBRATING HISTORY — Pupils at Pugliese West Elementary School are highlighting Black History Month through a week of festivities and activities. Second graders are holding a Black Heroes of History Runway event, wearing costumes and reading biographies of famous Black historical figures. Pupils in third and fourth grades are presenting a Black History Showcase, with depictions of past leaders, influencers and local community members who are recognized for their efforts. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — Pupils at Pugliese West Elementary are honoring Black History Month with a variety of weeklong activities. Events include a Black Heroes of History Runway showcase at 1 p.m. today.

According to second-grade teacher Rachael Andes, “Students will dress as a famous African American hero. As each student walks down the runway, a biography written by a second-grade student will be read aloud.”

A Black History Showcase will be held at noon on Thursday, with different grades shining a light on inventors, influencers and others who have made a difference.

Andes said this is the second year for the event. The students have been busy preparing to write and present biographies to accompany the presentations.

This is the first year parents are being invited to see the performances, officials noted.

“The purpose is to celebrate Black History Month by honoring and recognizing the achievements and contributions of famous African-Americans, while integrating literacy through student-written biographies,” Andes said. “The event provides students with an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen their research and writing skills and creatively present what they have learned in an engaging and meaningful way for families and the school community.”

“This event is designed to be educational and memorable for our students,” Andes continued. “It not only highlights important historical figures, but encourages student voice, creativity and confidence. We are excited to partner with families to make this experience meaningful, and we look forward to celebrating our students’ hard work together.”

Students in third and fourth grades will take part in the Black History Showcase Thursday. Third-grade teacher Crystal Wicker said the school decided to add a showcase to enhance and expand the program, giving students additional opportunities “to perform and creatively express what they have learned.” “We held our first showcase in 2024, and this year, approximately 20 students will be performing,” Wicker added.

Eight community members will be honored during the event.

“We wanted to highlight the importance of individuals who have made a positive impact on our community, school system and youth,” Wicker said.

“The purpose of this event is to celebrate, educate and honor the culture, history and achievements of Black individuals within our community and beyond,” she added. “The showcase serves as a platform to share musical heritage, literature and art, while giving our students the opportunity to express their creativity and voices. Our students have worked very hard and taken great ownership in preparing for this program, and we are proud to provide them with an opportunity to share their learning and talents.”