RL Celebrates Black History Month

Honoring Black History Month at Rice Lake Elementary

Dear Rice Lake Families,

February is Black History Month, a time for us to honor, celebrate, and learn about the many contributions of Black leaders, innovators, and change-makers who have shaped our world—past and present.

Throughout history, Black individuals have made extraordinary contributions across science, medicine, mathematics, engineering, the arts, education, and so much more. These contributions are not just moments from the past; they continue to influence how we live, learn, heal, build, and imagine our future. At Rice Lake, we believe it is essential for students to see themselves reflected in history and to learn about the many voices and experiences that strengthen our community and our world.

During the month of February, students will engage in learning that highlights Black excellence, resilience, creativity, and leadership. As a school community, we will come together for a culminating, schoolwide celebration through music, honoring both student voice and the voices of those who have come before us.

🎶 Black History Month Schoolwide Celebration
📅 February 27, 2026

Music has long been a powerful way to tell stories, express identity, and bring people together. We are excited to celebrate with our students through song, reflection, and shared joy as we lift up voices from the past, present, and future.

Thank you for partnering with us as we support students in learning, growing, and honoring the rich histories that shape who we are today. We look forward to celebrating together.

With gratitude,
Diane Bagley
Principal, Rice Lake Elementary

This month, we look forward to many opportunities to connect with families. As always, the safety and security of our students, staff, and school community remain our highest priority.

To support this commitment, we will be implementing a new entry and sign-in protocol for Parent/Teacher Conferences and the Scholastic Book Fair. All families will be asked to enter and exit through the main office (Door 1). Upon arrival, families will sign in at the office, so please remember to bring a state-issued ID.

To allow adequate time for this process and to ensure conferences begin on time, we recommend arriving 10–15 minutes prior to your scheduled conference. This will help ensure a smooth transition into the building and allow you to focus fully on hearing about your student’s learning and growth.

Thank you for your understanding and partnership as we work together to maintain a safe, welcoming, and organized environment for our entire Rice Lake community.

• Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950) was a groundbreaking historian, author, and journalist, known as the "Father of Black History," who dedicated his life to studying and promoting the contributions of African Americans, leading to the establishment of Black History Month.
  
  
• Born to formerly enslaved parents, he overcame immense obstacles, working in coal mines to fund his education, eventually earning a PhD from Harvard, and founding the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) to ensure Black history was recognized and taught (Wikipedia)