Sto-Rox Primary Center honored the history, impact, and culture of Black Americans during its annual two day Black History Month Celebration. Students, staff, families, and community members came together for a program that combined student performances, guest speakers, community engagement, and a creative walk through history.
The event featured song performances from each grade level, along with remarks from School Board President Cameron Culliver and Tyra Grant, Executive Director of Steel City Impact. Both speakers shared words of encouragement with students and highlighted the importance of leadership, service, and community involvement.
One of the highlights of the celebration was the “Wax Museum,” sponsored by Pittsburgh Area Community Schools and created by SRPC’s Viking Leaders. Students portrayed influential figures from history and present-day leaders, serving as living exhibits and sharing key facts about their impact.
Wax Museum Honorees:
Mansa Musa – The ruler of the Mali Empire who is considered one of the wealthiest individuals in history and expanded trade and education in West Africa.
Michael Jackson – A global music icon known as the King of Pop who broke racial barriers in the entertainment industry.
Ed Gainey – The first Black mayor of Pittsburgh who has prioritized equity and community-focused initiatives.
Rosa Parks – A civil rights activist whose actions on a Montgomery bus helped spark the Civil Rights Movement.
Martin Luther King Jr. – A leader of the Civil Rights Movement who promoted nonviolent protest in the fight for equality.
Roberto Clemente – A Hall of Fame baseball player remembered for his athletic achievements and humanitarian work.
Mae Jemison – The first Black woman to travel to space, paving the way for greater diversity in STEM fields.
Barack Obama – The first Black President of the United States who served two terms in office.
Ibtihaj Muhammad – An Olympic bronze medalist in fencing and the first American to compete in the Olympics wearing a hijab.
Michael Jordan – A basketball legend widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Steve Henson – The creator of ranch dressing, one of the most popular salad dressings in the United States.
Families also connected with local organizations and businesses that support Sto-Rox students and families, including Pittsburgh Area Community Schools, McKees Rocks Community Development Corporation, WQED, Sto-Rox Alumni Association, McKees Rocks Family Center, and Tropical Island Cafe.
During the celebration, second grader Makayla Smith was recognized for her outstanding attendance. She has not missed a single day of school since the start of the academic year and was awarded $300 for her commitment.
Pittsburgh Area Community Schools sponsored raffles on both days of the event, with winners announced at the conclusion of each program.
The two-day celebration highlighted the importance of learning from the past while recognizing the leaders who continue to shape history today.
