PBJHS celebrates Black History Month with program full of art, legacy and inspiration

“Do you value, honor, respect your education?” was the question Dr. Shonta Smith of Southeast Missouri University posed on Friday. She spoke to the student body of Poplar Bluff Junior High School for the annual Black History Month assembly.

“When you come to school, school has a purpose,” the keynote speaker emphasized.

Smith said the legacy of effort and labor from key figures in Black history presents a path to emulate.

“When you come into the schoolhouse every day, you’re provided with a legacy of labor to learn,” she affirmed.

Her speech was preceded by the singing of "The Black National Anthem” by Rosey Muldrew along with presentations on inclusion and diversity, important Black scientists, and a tribute to the late James Earl Jones. The PBJHS choir rendered the song “Rise Up” by Andra Day.

Student Nevaeh Thomas recited the poem “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou, and the school’s dance squad performed a routine titled “Mudd That.”

Students also had the opportunity to learn about historically Black fraternities and sororities with representatives of Kappa Alpha Psi, Phi Beta Sigma, and Zeta Phi Beta. Smith applauded the energy and vibrance of the presentations and focused the students on working toward the next step.

“I need you to think about what you’re doing right here, right now, and think about how it’s going to affect you in the future,” she added.

Smith referenced the trailblazing done by Michael Jordan and how his performance paved the way for players like Lebron James and Kobe Bryant.

“You have to labor before you get to the good pasture,” she espoused. “Don’t be afraid to ask the question. An education can change your life.”

Smith concluded her talk by getting the assembly to do the wave from one end of the gym to the other. Principal Candace Warren noted the members of the Black History committee had been planning the assembly since November.

“My committee knocked it out of the park,” she commented.