Schools across Douglas County celebrated Black History Month in February, with special 
programs, wax museums and cultural activities taking place at Lithia Springs, Arbor Station and Annette Winn elementary schools.
Lithia Springs Elementary students were treated to a special program on Feb. 26 in the gymnasium, where they watched excerpts from “The Lion King,” “Hairspray,” and “The Wiz.”
The program and a wax museum were organized by instructional lead teacher Tiffanie Wright, who also serves as co-site coordinator with Bailey Howell for the 21st Century Program.
The LSES class president opened the special program with an introduction to Black History and explained how the program tied to the school theme, “Lights, Camera, Action!”
During the “Lion King” in Act 1, students delivered speeches reflecting the movie’s theme of overcoming fear and performed popular songs, including “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” taught by music teacher Mary Kate Ogle-King. Students in the 21st Century program, under the guidance of Quasae Cole, performed choreographed dances.
Act 2 focused on “Hairspray,” with students reading speeches about the musical’s messages of kindness, courage and standing up for what is right. They also performed songs like “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat.”
During “The Wiz” in Act 3, students discussed how Dorothy realized she already possessed courage, heart, and confidence, while also highlighting how the musical reimagined a classic story through Black culture, music, and creativity.
The program concluded with the LSES class vice-president reminding students that Hollywood is more than lights and cameras—it’s about voices, creativity, and stories that inspire generations. As we celebrate Black History Month, remember: Lights, Camera, Action—your story is just beginning!
The celebration continued on Feb. 27 with the Live Black History Month Wax Museum. 21st 
Century Program Cub Club students spent the month researching influential African Americans who have contributed to American society. Kindergarten through fifth-grade students toured the gymnasium to view and hear presentations from students who brought their historical figures to life with costumes, props, and tri-fold poster boards.
Visitors participated in a “gallery walk,” stopping at each display to learn about the achievements of each featured African American.
Wright said parents, students, and staff enjoyed the interactive learning experience.
At Arbor Station Elementary, the school hosted its impactful Black History Month program, “Our Past, Our Future, Our Turn,” which centered on the powerful message that education is the ultimate key to the future and the primary tool for overcoming life’s obstacles.
The program featured a deeply personal keynote from guest speaker Jutta Whitlow-Thomas, a proud Arbor Station parent whose son attends the school and who is the granddaughter of the legendary three-time Olympic gold medalist, Wilma Rudolph.
By sharing intimate stories of her grandmother's resilience—transforming from a child who struggled to walk into the fastest woman in the world—Whitlow-Thomas provided students with a living testament to the importance of perseverance and academic excellence.
This event successfully bridged the gap between historical legacy and the students' own potential, reminding the Arbor Station community that they are the next generation of leaders equipped to carry the torch forward, media clerk Wendy Izenour said.
Annette Winn Elementary hosted a meaningful third annual “Black History Trail” that brought the community together to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans.
The evening showcased a vibrant array of student writing, music, and storytelling. Families engaged in a hands-on Kente craft and explored the rich heritage of African and Caribbean cultures, including the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their fraternal organizations.
Highlights included a special performance by the Wildcat Chorus, a rhythmic presentation by the Alexander High School West African Drumming Club, and the Annual Living Wax Museum, where students brought historical figures to life.
“It was a powerful evening of learning, reflection, and celebration for our entire school community,” said media specialist Lisa Burtz.