District hosts African American historical society library in admin building; Keystone showcases student programs and artists

Bristol Township School District leaders told the board that the district's administration building now houses a library for the African American Historical and Cultural Society of Bucks County and that students across the district have visited the collection as part of Black History Month programming.

The district said the society relocated last year into the administration building's professional development room to research, document and share African American history tied to Bucks County. "When the children visit the library and hear our presentation, I hope that they learn the contributions that African Americans have made throughout history," a society representative said during a presentation the board played for members and the public.

Superintendent remarks noted the value of the society's holdings to classrooms: "One of the things that makes our relationship with the historical society absolutely unique is the vast amount of literature and text that the historical society brings to our community... our students can walk into this room, open up a book, and they can see themselves in the literature that they open up." The district said visits would continue through the month and encouraged volunteers to support the society's work.

Separately the board heard a presentation from Keystone Elementary School principal Mark Walicki and his staff on character education, special projects and activities. Walicki introduced assistant principal Crystal Smith Herman and climate officer Steve Pierce and said Keystone remains academically focused despite operational challenges this year.

Keystone highlighted CharacterStrong monthly traits (kindness, respect, responsibility, gratitude, empathy, perseverance), student projects such as hobby-horse reenactments, recycling and fundraising by the student council ($805 raised for an animal shelter), ASL use in chorus, and the introduction of a 3D printer. The school also noted partnerships and field trips with the Heritage Conservancy and other local organizations.

The meeting included a recognition presentation from Megan Orrick of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association honoring Christopher Harkins for five years of service on the board. The board also recognized student artists of the month from Brookwood (Cartier Williams), Mill Creek (Maria Weiser) and Keystone (twins Constantine and Promise, clarinetists).

Board members praised staff and volunteers for program work. Principal Walicki thanked the board and staff for support and asked that appreciation be passed to school staff for their work with students.