On Feb. 17, P.S. Jones Middle School celebrated its annual black history program. This year’s theme was “Journey to Success.”

We were honored with three students, who previously attended P.S. Jones. Jordan Benson is a production coordinator at BET Networks, where she is responsible for the production of 106 & Park, BET Awards, Black Girls Rock, Soul Train Awards, Joyful Noise, BET Honors, BET Hip Hop Awards, Notarized: Top 100 Music Video Countdown, BET Music Matters, American Black Film Festival Honors, Centric Presents: The Round and BET’s UNCF Evening of Stars.

Dajah Johnson, Miss N.C. Central University, is the CEO of Everything Fabulous Cosmetics.

Jimmy Williams, a Washington High School football standout, is the starting wide receiver for East Carolina University.

All three delivered inspiring messages, encouraging the students to put academics first, pursue their dreams and to be confident in who they are.

Washington High School JROTC presented the colors. Hannah Daniel sang the National Anthem, and P.S. Jones Jazz Band performed “Second Line.” Other activities were implemented through the month. Each morning during announcements, a biography of famous African-Americans was read. Students had the opportunity to answer trivia questions and prizes were awarded. Each grade level participated by doing projects, and they are on display in our school media center.

Ms. Shrewsbury’s and Mrs. Meall’s art classes decorated our bulletin boards in the hallway with African-American art, and they made a quilt that is displayed in our media center.

Other participants in the Black History Program were students from P.S. Jones: Lateria Alexander, Stephanie Gonzalez and Emori Worthy.