Each year, February is recognized as a time to learn more about black history, build social awareness, and celebrate African-American achievement's progress, richness, and diversity. During the 1920s, Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson, the preeminent historian and founder of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, spearheaded the creation of “Negro History Week” because he was concerned that the contributions of black Americans were overlooked or misrepresented. Therefore, he began lobbying for “Black History Week.” 

In 1976, Dr. Woodson’s legacy, now renamed the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History, successfully lobbied to extend “Black History Week” into a month-long observance in February. This observance is a testimony to those African pioneers who struggled to affirm the humanity of African people.

This proclamation will promote the School Board of Clay County’s commitment to recognizing and appreciating African-American achievements.

Every year, during February, Clay County Public Schools commemorate the accomplishments of African Americans. These planned school and classroom activities accompany a standards-based approach to infusing African-American experiences, perspectives, history, and achievements into the curriculum throughout the year. The district’s system-level approach has resulted in more significant equity and outcomes for African-American students. According to Spring 2023 Social Studies EOC data, Clay County is closing the achievement gaps between our White and Black subgroups. While Florida has a 23-point gap between these subgroups’ Civics proficiency, Clay has reduced its achievement gap to 14 points. In US History, Florida’s Black and White subgroups have a 27-point achievement gap, whereas Clay’s gap is just 10 points.

Strive to close the equity and outcome gaps for Black American students through policies and practices that reflect the experiences of Black American students, ensure greater access and opportunity, and honor history, heritage, and contributions.

Goal:  1 -   Student Success

That the School Board proclaim February 2024 as Black History Month in Clay County District Schools