EMSB Marks Black History Month Through Hands-On Learning and Creativity
Montreal, February 26 , 2026 – Throughout Black History Month, the English Montreal School Board network has been engaging students in immersive, creative, and interdisciplinary learning experiences designed to bring Black history, culture, and excellence to life.
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| Dr. Salah Wilson |
The Life of Viola Desmond
During Black History Month, students from Pierre de Coubertin Elementary School (PDC), Nesbitt Elementary School, Carlyle Elementary, and Leonardo Da Vinci Academy (LDVA), and L.I.N.K.S. High School took part in meaningful and engaging workshops focused on the life and legacy of Viola Desmond. The workshops were led by PDCIA Animator Vince Lacroce and were designed to deepen students’ understanding of social justice, equity, and courage through interactive learning experiences. Students in Cycle 2 explored Viola Desmond’s historic stand against racial segregation and reflected on the importance of fairness and inclusion in Canadian society. As part of the initiative, students participated in a creative, hands-on activity where they designed and built 3D paper models of movie theatres. These models symbolically recreated the historic events surrounding Desmond’s experience at the Roseland Theatre in 1946, helping students better understand the challenges she faced and the impact of her bravery. Through this project, students combined historical learning with artistic expression, critical thinking, and collaboration. The activity encouraged meaningful discussions about standing up for what is right and respecting the dignity of all individuals. “The goal of these workshops is to bring history to life in a way that students can connect with personally,” said Mr. Lacroce.
Black History Month Assemblies: Caribbean Culture & Music:
On February 17 at Leonardo Da Vinci Academy, February 18 at Nesbitt Elementary School and on February 19 at Pierre de Coubertin Elementary School, students took part in Caribbean-inspired assemblies celebrating culture, music, and innovation. The program highlighted the work of Dr. Salah Wilson, a pioneer in Canada’s steelpan community, and his daughter Fatima Wilson, a Montreal-based steelpan musician and educator.
Connecting with Ruby Bridges Through Creative Writing
Students from Pierre de Coubertin Elementary, Leonardo Da Vinci Academy, Nesbitt Elementary School and John F. Kennedy High School took part in a cross-school initiative highlighting the life and legacy of civil rights pioneer Ruby Bridges. The program introduced students to Bridges’ historic role in desegregating public schools and her extraordinary courage at just six years old. Students will create personalized postcards and greeting cards addressed to Ruby Bridges, sharing words of appreciation and reflection. The completed cards will be sent to the Ruby Bridges Foundation, allowing students to connect their learning to a global audience and engage in meaningful civic participation while discovering their own power to be change-makers.
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| Getting into the swing of things. |
Luc Bambera at East Hill
The entire East Hill Elementary School in RDP came together in the gymnasium to celebrate Black culture through dance, singing, rhythm, and movement. Talented drummer, singer, and dancer Luc Bambara delivered an energetic and inspiring performance for all grade levels, filling the space with music and joy . This was a powerful moment of celebration and connection for students and staff alike.
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| A learning experience for the students at East Hill. |
Learning Commons Windows
In honor of Black History Month, East Hill Elementary School in RDP organized a collaborative project displayed on the Learning Commons windows, allowing students to learn from one another while exploring inspiring Black figures, past and present.
At the beginning of the month, the entire school enjoyed a special performance, and a reading session was set up for classes to enjoy throughout the month, discovering powerful stories together
“I Have a Dream” Mural Art Creation
John F. Kennedy High School and Nesbitt Elementary School students created a visual art installation displayed in the foyer of both schools, celebrating student voice and vision while responding to the guiding question: “What is your dream, and what do you hope for our future?”
Celebrating Black Excellence Through Art
John F. Kennedy High School unveiled three large-scale educational banners celebrating Black excellence across the 1800s, 1900s, and 2000s. Designed by Mr. Lacroce, the four by eight-foot banners highlight influential Black leaders whose courage and innovation shaped history. Approved for permanent installation in the school cafeteria, the displays will serve as year-round learning tools that spark conversation, reflection, and appreciation of Black contributions.
Bringing History to Life: Underground Railroad Workshop
Students at John F. Kennedy High School and Carlyle International Elementary School participated in an interactive Underground Railroad workshop. Through a team-based learning experience inspired by trivia games and board-game strategy, students will explore key figures, routes, and events connected to this historic resistance movement.
Gardenview School celebrates Black history and excellence all year long, but February offers a special opportunity to uplift Black voices — past, present, local, and global. This month encourages the community to explore powerful stories, enjoy enriching cultural experiences, and connect with diverse Black communities.
Black History Month Through
Music and Movement
On February 10 Secondary III–V students at John F. Kennedy High School gathered in the Big Gym for a dynamic Black History Month assembly featuring Lésouta Luc Bambara. Presented through the Préville Fine Arts Centre, Luc shared the rich cultural traditions of African drumming and dance from his home country of Burkina Faso. Students were invited to actively participate, experiencing the powerful rhythms and movements that connect music, history, and community. The workshop went beyond performance, encouraging conversations about belonging, identity, and diversity in Quebec, particularly from BIPOC perspectives. It also connected to STEAM learning, showing how rhythm, coordination, and cultural storytelling intersect across disciplines. The event was organized by PDCIA Veronica D’Agata and Vince Lacroce, with special thanks to Ms. D’Agata, for leading this meaningful initiative that brought energy, culture, and reflection to the JFK community.
Boxing Legend Otis Grant Inspire Students at John F. Kennedy High School
As part of Black History Month
celebrations, John F. Kennedy High School was proud to welcome Canadian boxing
legend Otis Grant on February 23 for a special student assembly focused on
perseverance, leadership, and resilience.
Organized by Personal
Development and Community Involvement Animator (PDCIA) Vince Lacroce, the
upcoming event will give students a unique opportunity to hear firsthand from
one of Montreal’s most accomplished athletes and community leaders.
Grant, a former
world champion and proud Montrealer, shared his inspiring journey from
growing up in the city to competing on the world stage. Through his
presentation, he will emphasize the importance of discipline, self-belief, and
hard work, while also speaking openly about overcoming adversity and staying
focused on personal goals.
“Mr. Grant’s story goes far
beyond boxing,” says Vince Lacroce. “It’s about resilience, character, and
using your experiences to motivate others. Our goal is to show students that
success is possible when you commit to yourself and your dreams.”
During the assembly, students
had the opportunity to engage with Mr. Grant as he speaks about the
challenges he faced throughout his career and the lessons he learned along the
way. He encouraged students to take pride in their identity, embrace their
potential, and give back to their communities.
The event highlighted the importance of celebrating Black excellence and recognizing the contributions of Black Canadians, both past and present. It also reinforced John F. Kennedy High School’s commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
BHM Performance at Dante and Honore Mercier
On February 4, as part of Black
History Month celebration at Dante and Honore Mercier Elementary, everyone
enjoyed a dynamic and high energy performance by Melo, renowned dancer,
choreographer and founder of Uplift514 Afro dance school in Montreal. Through
movement, rhythm, and storytelling, Melo shared his African culture and
reminded us that dance is more than movement—it’s a way of telling stories,
honoring traditions, and bringing people together.
Cultural Exchange
Gardenview Elementary School students took part in an exciting virtual cultural exchange with students from Gejeop International School in Kumasi, Ghana. During this experience, Gardenview students were able to ask questions about Ghanaian culture, food, climate, and daily life, while also sharing their own unique backgrounds. It is remarkable that children in Montreal can build connections with peers halfway across the world, discovering that while differences exist, the similarities that unite them are just as meaningful. In addition. Gardenview's G.R.E.A.T. Committee, comprised of student leaders, visited Grades 1 to 3 to present inspiring stories of Black heroes and their lasting contributions. Their work helps younger learners appreciate the brilliance, resilience, and creativity that have shaped history. Gardenview was also thrilled to welcome back the Salah and Family Steel Pan Band, whose energetic performance highlights the vibrant cultural roots of Trinidadian steel pan music. Their visit always brings joy and offers students an immersive cultural experience.
Dance Off
Parkdale Elementary School in St. Laurent had a Dance Off on Feb. 6 . Featured special guests were Dany (Dizzylock), a graphic designer by day and a Nighttime Lock Dance Performer Winner of over 12 competitions in Montreal and Toronto, he finished in second place in Colombia and the top eight in New York. Dany taught dance classes in Ontario, Quebec and ran a dance program in the schools of Alberta. Also on the bill is Abigaelle, 12, who has a specialty in Afrodance and hip hop, She participated in Quebec's Got Talent, and teaches young children Afrobop. Abee brings in the origins of dance, the old while Dizzylock brings in the new, with two amazing shows as well, showing students the commonality and histories of each dance, dating back to the Charleston!
A Visit from Ms. Townsend
Former Coronation School Principal Beverly Townsend visited her old building recently as part of Black History Month. She brought a special guest, Qaadira De Cousteau, B. A. McGill Early Childhood Ed who was a student at Coronatiom in the 1990s and is now the Principal at LaSalle Adult Education Centre. Together, they delivered a wonderful presentation to the two K 5 classes (Ms. Shanna’s class and mine) . It was a meaningful experience for our students, and they were truly engaged.
Overture With the Arts
In honor of Black History Month, Personal Development and Community Involvement Animator Veronica D’Agata, invited Omari Newton from Overture with the Arts to speak live in person at Vincent Massey Collegiate. The presentation, “Unpacking the N-Word”, explored the origins and evolution of the N-word, and helped students and educators address the necessary topic of racism. Many described it as powerful, informative, and necessary. It reinforced the importance of respect and accountability. Ms. D’Agata organized for the students at Michelangelo International, John Caboto Academy, and Carlyle Elementary an interactive performance from African artist, Luc Bambara. Students and staff had an opportunity to explore the culture from Burkina Faso through a fun and energetic presentation of traditional African drumming and dancing. Everyone was all smiles, full of joy and enthusiasm! Black history Month was celebrated at East Hill and at Edward Murphy elementary in a vibrant and memorable way with talented West African singers and drummers Luc Bambara and Adama Daou. Their artistry, energy, and powerful expression captivated our students and staff and connected us as a school community.
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| Simeon Pompey at Merton. |
Powerful Stories at Merton
About the English Montreal School Board
With a youth and adult sector population of more than 35,000 students, the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) is the largest English public school board in Quebec. Established on July 1, 1998, when the province created new boards along linguistic lines, the EMSB network consists of 73 schools and centres. For more details, visit the EMSB website at www.emsb.qc.ca.
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Contact:
Michael J. Cohen
Manager, Marketing and Communications
English Montreal School Board
mcohen@emsb.qc.ca
