As Black History Month is observed on campus at Bishop Gorman, the focus extends beyond celebrations and bulletin boards to deeper conversations about culture, identity and history in the classroom.

At Bishop Gorman, Mrs. Houston, an English and AP African American Studies teacher, said Black History Month centers on broadening students’ understanding of cultures and experiences that may differ from their own. It serves as a reminder that some histories and perspectives are not always fully represented in traditional curriculum. “It is about teaching students about a culture that may not be like their own. It is about recognizing things about this culture that may not be taught in the classroom,” said Houston.

Beyond coursework, exploring culture helps students see how history lives on in music, art and literature.

For Houston, meaningful inclusion of Black history should not stop within a single month. Schools have a responsibility to ensure African American history is treated as an essential part of academic study rather than an elective addition, woven into the curriculum in lasting and measurable ways. “Classes like AP African American Studies need to be offered to all students. It should also be counted as a history credit,” she said.

Access to coursework is only part of the effort; how history is taught also matters.

In her classroom, culture is central to understanding the past. Houston connects history to creative expression, showing students how traditions endure across generations. “These permeate all parts of history especially to show that the art, dance, and spirituals from the continent of Africa and from different African kingdoms is still present in contemporary music and art and literature. In addition, its influence on other cultures is important,” she said.

As Bishop Gorman observes Black History Month, the emphasis remains on sustained learning. Ensuring that the study of Black history is continuous, comprehensive and deeply rooted in the broader story of the world.