Redlands Unified hosts inaugural Black History Month Celebration

REDLANDS, Calif. — The Redlands Unified School District, in partnership with the District African American Parent Advisory Council (DAAPAC), hosted its first-ever Black History Month Celebration on Feb. 27 at Clement Middle School.

The event brought together families from across the district, along with vendors, community organizations, historically Black sororities and fraternities, alumni, and high school Black Student Unions (BSUs). Attendees had access to informational resources and cultural presentations.

Dr. Juanita Watkins, DAAPAC president, opened the evening with a welcome address, followed by a performance of the Black national anthem by Chantelle Miller. Students in the RUSD Inspire Choir delivered musical performances, and guest speakers included poet Naciya Watts and Kelton Alexander, cousin of NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson.

Families had the opportunity to win prizes donated by parent and union groups, including the African American Parent Advisory Councils (AAPAC), Parent Teacher Associations (PTA), Redlands Education Support Professionals Association (RESPA), and the Redlands Teacher Association (RTA). Each child in attendance received a free book from Protagonist Black Bookstore.

DAAPAC Group photo (Left to right: Board President Michele Rendler, DAAPAC Treasurer Dr. Krystal Duncan, Superintendent Juan J. Cabral, DAAPAC Historian Jasmine Carroll, DAAPAC President Dr. Juanita Watkins, DAAPAC Vice President Dr. Alise Clouser, Director of Special Projects Sonya Balingit, DAAPAC Secretary La’Rena Garcia, and Coordinator of Diversity and Equity NaChé Thompson). (Photo: Courtesy RUSD)

“The Black History Month Celebration was a milestone for the district,” said La’Rena Garcia, DAAPAC secretary. “It was a success, showcasing student performances, cultural presentations, and guest speakers who highlighted the rich contributions of Black individuals throughout history and in our local community.”

Students from Redlands East Valley High School’s BSU, along with alumni from San Bernardino Valley College’s Umoja-Tumaini program, performed A Trip Through Time, a skit sharing key facts about influential Black figures. Redlands East Valley’s step team, Steppers with Attitude, closed the event with a performance.

*Redlands East Valley High School Steppers with Attitude led by captain Josiah Carrillo. (Photo: Courtesy RUSD)*

The celebration was well received by community members, according to NaChé Thompson, the district’s coordinator of diversity and equity.

“Many community members who have grown up in Redlands expressed how long they have waited to see something like this happen here,” Thompson said.

District leaders say the event will return next year.

“By hosting this celebration annually, Redlands USD is setting a foundation for continued cultural awareness and education while strengthening connections between schools and families,” Garcia said. “Events like these empower students, encourage dialogue, and inspire future leaders in our community.”