Pasco recognized as exemplary for teaching African American history; board proclaims February as Black History Month

State and local representatives of Florida’s African American History Task Force recognized Pasco County Schools as an exemplary district at Thursday’s school board meeting, and the board adopted a Black History Month proclamation encouraging district schools to observe the month.

Glenn Gilzine, chair of the state task force, said the recognition reflects two years of work by district leaders, community members, teachers, university partners and parents to align curriculum and professional learning with Florida’s African American history benchmarks. “African American history is American history,” Gilzine said as he presented a certificate naming Pasco among a group of exemplary districts.

Dr. Keith Rivero and task force members described a multi-year process of curriculum analysis, revisions, professional learning and community engagement that led to the district’s exemplary designation. Task force members noted the work included aligning K–12 benchmarks, developing instructional frameworks and partnering with universities for staff training.

At the same meeting the board read and adopted a Black History Month resolution that recalled the origins of Black History Month and urged schools to recognize the contributions of African Americans. The resolution was read by a board member and approved by voice vote.

District staff and task force leaders asked schools, families and community partners to use the recognition and seasonal observances as opportunities to expand instruction and community awareness.

No changes to graduation requirements or district policy were announced; the recognition is an honorific designation awarded by the state task force.