Austin ISD Celebrates Black History Month
Join Austin ISD in celebrating Black History Month throughout February! Every year, to honor our Black students, staff and families Austin ISD celebrates Black History Month, a time to highlight the district's commitment to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.
Black History Month provides an opportunity for deeper exploration of Black and African-American history than what is taught throughout the year. Each campus receives resources, and campuses are encouraged to collaborate with students and staff to design Black History Month activities that engage, educate and inspire.
Profile Articles
Events
Central Office Staff Learning Activities
Every Friday from 2–3 p.m.
Film screening at Austin Film Society
Saturday, Feb. 4, 1:15 p.m. at 6259 Middle Fiskville Road Sold Out
Join Austin ISD, KLRU and the Austin Film Society for the free premiere of The Anderson Yellow Jackets, the story of Austin’s first segregated Black high school. Panel discussion with Original L.C. Anderson alumni immediately following. This event is free and requires pre-registration, as capacity is limited. Doors open at 12:45 p.m.
We are working to schedule a second screening. Updates will be posted on this page.
Pan-African flag-raising ceremony at Central Office
Tuesday, Feb. 7, 9 a.m.
Black-owned food trucks at Central Office
Friday, Feb. 24, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
African American Heritage Celebration at Austin ISD PAC
Friday, Feb. 24 at 6:30 p.m. at 1500 Barbara Jordan Blvd.
Now in its 40th year, the African American Heritage Celebration began in 1983 under the leadership of former Austin ISD Associate Superintendent William Charles Akins. With a 2023 theme of “Building the future from the lessons of the past,” this event showcases the academic achievements of our students, the dedication and leadership of our staff, and the commitment of our community partners. Austin ISD awards our Top Senior Scholars with a textbook scholarship for their college of choice, as well as prizes for winners of the essay and art contests. The 2023 celebration will feature hosts and student performances from Travis Early College High School.
2023 African American Heritage Celebration Awards Winners
Share in honoring Austin ISD’s outstanding students and the presentation of the 2023 African American Heritage Celebration awards:
Hobart L. Gaines Award
Sarah Dilworth
Teacher, Joslin Elementary
Spirit of Giving Award
Laverta Crayton
Teacher, Andrews Elementary
Friend of Education Award
Daphne Octave
Community Member
Servant of Education Award
Yolanda Dumas-Faulkner
Community Member
School Excellence
Rhoda Coleman
Principal, Palm Elementary
School Improvement
De’Sean Roby
Principal, Sadler-Means YWLA
Continued School Improvement
Courtney Colvin
Principal, Overton Elementary
Join Austin ISD in the Annual Juneteenth Parade on Saturday, June 17, 2023. Details on parking, parade route and more TBD.