Each year, Niles honors black history during the month of February and this year was celebrated with a musical performance. Thirteen students from Niles Prep performed a selection of song, dance and spoken word to a crowd of parents, Niles teachers, and community members.

“We want to make sure the students know about the sacrifices and honor the achievements of those who came before them,” said Dr. Floydetta Baker-Young, Co-Administrator of Niles Prep.

The celebration featured songs covering blues, gospel, and soul genres including “I’m Going to Kansas City,” and “Stand By Me.” After the musical performance, the students featured their freestyle dancing talents with a dance solo paired with James Brown’s “Get On Up” and group dances paired with some of today’s top hits.

The Honorable Judge Ardie Bland of the 16^thJudicial Court of Missouri and Jessica Clark of Synchrony Financial were the guest speakers during the ceremony. They each spoke about a specific person from history and offered words of encouragement for the students.

“It doesn’t matter where you are right now, it doesn’t matter how bad it gets, you can do anything you want,” said Judge Bland.

Find out what other events are coming up at Niles by visiting our Events page.