This year marks the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, initially established by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926 as a week dedicated to celebrating the cultural, intellectual and artistic achievements of African Americans, as well as, their resiliency in the face of widespread adversity.
At Overlook and Willow Hill elementary schools, students and staff commemorated this century of celebration with a visit from award-winning author and historian, Ms. Alice Faye Duncan, whose works covers each and every one of these essential topics.
Ms. Duncan presented her nationally acclaimed work to students in kindergarten through 5th grades, including her books that combine historical research with poetry and music as a means of introducing children to the work of Civil Rights icons, such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, Blues legend BB King, and Olympic champion Willie B. Whyte.
As a longtime teaching librarian, Ms. Duncan aims to plant the seeds of lifelong learning and a love of reading in students, fitting perfectly into Abington School's District literacy initiatives and ASD Reads! campaign. As a children’s author and poet, her two latest books are "The Dream Builder’s Blueprint: Dr. King’s Message to Young People", illustrated by E.B.Lewis, and "Blues Boy", illustrated by Carl Joe Williams.
"I have been intentional with my subjects," Ms. Duncan says. "I write templates to help all children brave their challenges, scale rugged mountains, and live their dreams."
