Austin ISD Celebrates Black History Month
Join Austin ISD in celebrating Black History Month! Every February, to honor the multifaceted experiences 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. Honoring, recognizing and educating ourselves about these histories is important because they represent our collective American history. 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.
2026 Engagement Opportunities
Signature Events
Pan-African Flag-raising Ceremony
A Century of Black History Commemorations
Date: Monday, Feb. 2
Time: 10 a.m.-11:00 a.m.
Location: Akins Early College High School Courtyard,
10701 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78748 (Directions)
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African American Heritage Celebration
Date: Friday, Feb. 27
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Performing Arts Center (PAC),
1500 Barbara Jordan Blvd.
Event Description and Essay Contest
The African American Heritage Celebration began in 1983 under the leadership of former Austin ISD Associate Superintendent William Charles Akins. With a 2025 theme of “Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Trailblazers in the Community," 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 2025 celebration will feature hosts and student performances from Akins Early College High School.
The student essay contest deadline was Friday, Jan. 17. Winners from 4th, 7th and 10th grades will be announced at the African American Heritage Celebration on Feb. 26.
Please send questions to us via Let's Talk!
Student Experience Collection
2026
Black History Month Resources
To support both classroom and learning, a comprehensive curriculum for elementary and secondary levels will be available in Black History Month Resources 2025 shared folder.
Huston-Tillotson University Tour
Travis Early College High School Student Produced!
Students can explore the Black History Month BLEND course 2024 with activities and resources for the elementary and secondary classrooms.
The 2023 Student Equity Council and campus Black Student Alliances, in collaboration with AISD TV, created the Black Table Talk Series to encourage engagement and discussion amongst students. Episode 1, Episode 2, Episode 3
