Black History Month Assembly

Friday, February 27, 2026 | 8:50 AM | Murch Gym
All are welcome!

Murch proudly invites families and community members to join us for our annual Black History Month Assembly, a meaningful celebration of Black history, culture, music, storytelling, and student voice.

This year’s assembly features two local Washington, DC authors, powerful student musical performances, historic video moments, and classroom reflections from across grades Pre-K through 5.

Featured Guest Authors

Chad Harris
Amazon best-selling author and award-winning elementary music teacher Chad Harris will share his children’s book Two Brothers, One Song. With more than 20 years of teaching experience, Chad brings together music, history, and storytelling to highlight the origins of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

The book was inspired by the powerful history of the song’s first performance by students at Stanton School in Jacksonville, Florida, and the enduring connection to Stanton Elementary School in Southeast Washington, DC—where Chad teaches today. His story centers the role of children in shaping history and preserving community legacy.

Two Brothers, One Song is deeply personal and is dedicated to eight of Chad’s former students who tragically lost their lives to violence. In their honor, all proceeds from the book are reinvested directly into Stanton Elementary School.

L. Keshawn Harris
Our second guest author, L. Keshawn Harris, will present his picture book Robbie’s First Haircut to students in Pre-K through 2nd grade.

This joyful and heartwarming story follows Robbie as he prepares for his first haircut before his birthday celebration. With encouragement from his dad, his best friend, and a welcoming barbershop community, Robbie discovers courage, connection, and pride in a meaningful rite of passage.

Robbie’s First Haircut celebrates Black boy joy, fatherhood, and the beauty of community, making it a perfect story for young readers and families alike.

Student Performances & Program Highlights

Student musical presentations of:
- “Lift Every Voice and Sing”
- “Keep Your Eyes on the Prize”
- “We Shall Not Be Moved”
- “Back of the Bus”
Video interview with Rosa Parks
Historic footage of Martin Luther King Jr. delivering “I Have a Dream”
A tribute video and short biography honoring Jesse Jackson
A music video featuring Mahalia Jackson, whose gospel voice uplifted civil rights leaders and protesters
A video collage showcasing Black History Month learning from classrooms across grades Pre-K through 5

As students and guests exit the gym, a special seven-minute Motown music video will play, highlighting the legendary sounds, artists, and Top 10 musical groups that shaped American music history.

We hope you’ll join us for this inspiring morning of learning, reflection, and celebration.