Memorial School Celebrates Black History Month

Memorial Middle School students are honoring the contributions of African Americans during Black History Month.

Throughout the school, students have created displays on classroom doors that highlight the achievements of prominent figures, from jazz musician Wynton Marsalis to abolitionist Harriet Tubman to Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas.

"The kids really got behind it," said Principal Kevin Brough. "Any time we can promote diversity in the school, that's a good thing."

The idea for the project came from sixth grader Gabe Sirot and was quickly embraced by teachers and students.

Sixth grader Cameron Ruggerio learned about the Underground Railroad in Connecticut while studying Tubman's life.

"She escaped and she helped free a bunch of people. I had no idea," Ruggerio said. "We had a lot of fun doing this."

Sixth grader Robert Voss said he enjoyed learning about Marsalis, including listening to jazz for the first time.

"It's really good," he said. "I'm usually into rock-and-roll but it's easier to play rock than it is jazz."

Fifth graders Carina Mancini and Elise Weronik also chose to research a musician, legendary soul singer Aretha Franklin.

"I like her music," Mancini said.

"She's won 18 grammys," added Weronik.