The first day of February marks the start of Black History Month. People around the country will be celebrating the past and present achievements of black Americans, as well as recognizing the influential role of African-Americans have had in U.S. history.

Similar celebrations will take place at North Atlanta High School. “It’s very important for us to always do something for Black History Month,” said Vice Principal Robert Whitman said.

This year on February 26 the PTSA and the school’s Performing Arts programs will sponsor an evening event in the school’s Linda Stevenson Theater that celebrates the diversity found within our learning community. Event-goers can expect to leave with an expanded mind on the topic of diversity and what it truly means to attend a school with a richly multi-cultural student body.

It is evident that North Atlanta is holding nothing back in regard to educating students about black history. In addition to the upcoming Diversity Program, a few weekends ago many North Atlanta students went to see “Selma,” the award-winning historical film that focused on Martin Luther King Jr.’s campaigns for voter equality and civil rights for all Americans. Atlanta Public Schools (APS) raised enough money to provide a free admission to all students who were interested. “Our Atlanta education partners believe in our students, and I am grateful for the opportunity they are providing our students to see one of the most pivotal moments in American history,” said Meria Carstarphen, APS superintendent. The film is particularly noteworthy for Carstarphen since she is a native of Selma, Ala., the city where the film’s plot transpires.

During February, “11 Stories,” the school news program, will be doing a special segment on Black History Month. Show staff member Halliday Hartley said the segment will be educational and entertaining. “We hope to really step it up this year and everyone should expect more creative stuff in the future,” said Halliday, a junior.

Black History Month this year at North Atlanta will be one to remember. No matter what your race is, black history is something that should be celebrated by all.