Support Austin ISD as we honor and celebrate our African American community and heritage throughout Black History Month in February. 

• BLEND Course for Students & Staff - Throughout the year, and particularly during the month of February, students and staff across the district will engage in activities to understand, recognize, and celebrate the African American community in here in Austin and across the world.

• Black Table Talk Series - Austin ISD's Student Equity Council, in collaboration with AISD.TV, created a series of videos where they discuss and spotlight student voices, while centering around the black student experience. Watch and learn more anytime on YouTube (video #1, video #2, video #3).

• Pan-African Flag Raising Ceremony - On February 1 at 9 am at Austin ISD's Central Office, we will raise the Pan-African Flag to officially kick-off the district's celebration of Black History Month. We encourage campuses to host their own flag raising ceremony and other Black History Month events, and share their stories and photos on social media using #AISDCelebratesBlackHistory.

• African American Heritage Celebration (AAHC) - On February 23 at 6:30 pm at Austin ISD’s Performing Arts Center, we will honor students, staff, and community members who made contributions to Austin ISD. This year’s theme is “Illuminating African Americans and the Arts,” and the featured school will be Crockett Early College High School who will perform throughout the ceremony.

• Essay Contest - At AAHC, some exceptional student writers from 4th grade, 7th grade, and 10th grade will be recognized for their participation in the Essay Contest, where they can discuss this year's theme, "Illuminating African Americans and the Arts." Students can submit their essays by February 5.

• Awards - At AAHC, Individuals and community organizations will be recognized and honored for their commitment to making a difference for our Austin ISD students. Nominations for these awards can be made through January 30.

• And so much more…

All these experiences will have a lasting impression on our students for years to come, so please show your support today!

Check out Austin ISD's Black History Month website for more information. For any questions regarding the African American Heritage Celebration, essay contest, or awards, please contact Gia Jones at gia.jones@austinisd.org. For any general questions about Black History Month celebrations, please contact Statia Paschel at statia.paschel@austinisd.org.