Inspire program showcases student talents in recognition of Black History Month
By Glyndell B. Presley
Silver Lariat Staff Writer
Madison County High School students showcased talents during the second annual Inspire program in honor of Black History Month. The talent portion of the program was preceded by a speaker session that included alumni. Graduates Dabra Lofton, My’Ashia Arnold, DeShawntee Gallon, and Jessica Clark Solomon spoke to students about the importance of school, life challenges and successes. Lofton addressed the ninth graders in the gym, while Arnold talked to tenth graders in the media center. Eleventh grade students were engaged in a learning session facilitated by Gallon, and seniors heard from Solomon.
During the general assembly program in the gym, students had an opportunity to witness fellow classmates perform. Seniors Jocelyn Ford presided, Zillie Daniels gave the welcome and occasion, and Artheria Williams, Alea Roberson, Kelvionna Mays, and Nhizayhia Hill sung James Weldon Johnson’s “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing.”
A highlight of the program was the student rendition of the movie song, “Glory,” performed by Corbin Brown, Williams, Roberson, Mays, Hill, Jada Sanders, and James Fead. Joseph Jackson roused the crowd with his rendition of Common’s rap portion of the song, while Destini Butler performed a liturgical dance.
Senior Samonty McIntyre performed from the Prologue of Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison followed by students Soni Hart, Brooke O’Steen, and Kevon Thomas who read, “A Letter to My Younger Self.” Marilyn Monlyn recited an original poem, “Little Father,” while teacher Laneka Allen directed students in performing an African Dance. Darian Alexander, who won third place in MCHS’s Poetry Out Loud contest recited “Let Me Tell You What a Poem Brings,” followed by first place winner, Kayla Ferguson-Connor, with her recitation of “The Art Room.”
The high school’s Theatre I class directed by Caulette Hicks performed a tableau of Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I Have A Dream” speech. The program culminated with a song dedication, “Down By The Riverside,” to the late Rodney Irvine, long time paraprofessional and voice of the Cowboys. Principal Geraldine Wildgoose, asked the 30 or more participants to take the stage to be recognized for the tremendous job done. The Inspire Program was the brainchild of Spanish Instructor Gale James.