Portland board proclaims February Black History Month; schools describe student‑led events

The Portland Public Schools Board of Education on Feb. 4 unanimously adopted Resolution 7,044 proclaiming February as Black History Month and heard presentations from district principals, staff and students describing how schools will observe the month.

Superintendent Armstrong introduced the item and invited senior director Isaac Cardona and assistant superintendent Margaret Calvert to present school activities. At Jason Lee Elementary, site manager Miriam Lowe described the school’s "Black Brilliance" program, which includes weekly announcements, a school‑wide anthem, cultural performances and family events designed to build connections with parents. "We don't naturally get black history in our public schools unless we have gotten it from our parents... so that was my biggest thing: to bring something that these all of these students would be able to see," Lowe said.

Roosevelt High School principals and students described student‑run assemblies and programming. Student speakers Marion Hassan and Gloria Zawadi — members of Roosevelt's Black Student Union — said assemblies and a "Black Action Week" include performances, classroom work that highlights artists and scholars, and student‑created zines to deepen classroom learning.

Board members praised educators and emphasized ongoing work. Director Hollins gave a prepared statement tracing historical inequities in education and said, "America, we have a problem," urging continued action rather than symbolic recognition alone. The board then moved, seconded and approved the proclamation 7–0, with the student representative indicating a yes vote unofficially.

The presentations stressed that Black History Month activities are student‑centered and year‑round learning is encouraged. No policy changes were adopted at the meeting; the item was a ceremonial proclamation and an opportunity for schools to present planned activities to the board.