Bonner Elementary School is part of Tyler Independent School District, located at 235 S. Saunders Avenue in Tyler. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Bonner Elementary opened its doors to the community Thursday night for a vibrant Black History Month celebration featuring live music, student performances, and an art gallery showcasing young talent. Families, local organizations, and city leaders gathered for an evening of culture, connection, and celebration.

“This is an opportunity for our students to see different cultures and how we celebrate,” said organizer Elandra Carston. “It’s very important because some of our students are African Americans and not only do African Americans need to learn about the culture, but we all need to learn about different cultures. It helps us understand the difference that we have and it brings us closer together.”

Second and third graders took the stage, performing for their families with songs that celebrated history and unity.

“We were singing ‘Keep Your Eyes on the Prize,’ ‘Free at Last,’ and ‘I’m Proud to be an American,’” said second grader Delilah Reneau. “It went really well and it was very exciting.”

For Delilah, learning about Black History Month was a chance to explore the important stories from the past.

“We celebrate Black people from a long time ago that had some really good inventions or ones who did some good things to help,” she said. “The one that really sticks out is (Dr.) Martin Luther King.”

Pre-K bilingual teacher Valerie Reneau emphasized the importance of incorporating Black history into lessons year-round rather than limiting it to February.

“People often forget that everyday items like potato chips and the ice cream scooper were invented by African Americans,” she said. “When kids learn about these contributions, they’re excited to see how Black history is woven into their daily lives.”

As the librarian and media technology specialist, Carston gets to see many of the students coming to the library throughout the month to do research on notable figures.

“They had an opportunity to look up someone that they wanted to learn about, research that person, and design a patch,” she said. “Then we created a paper quilt that’s hanging in the hallway.”

In addition to music and a performance from the East Texas Elite Roses dance team, the evening featured a student art gallery, community resources and food trucks.

Students from Jarvis Christian University attended to share the significance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

“I believe that HBCUs serve as a pillar in our communities, allowing people to see that you don’t have to attend just another institution,” said Devon Woods, a senior biology major and the 25th Mr. Jarvis Christian University. “You can gain a full educational experience while immersing yourself in the culture of the community.”

“Even in these uncertain times, as questions arise about the future of our education system, HBCUs remain just as important – especially for young Black individuals seeking an education and a supportive community,” added Dailona Dallas, the 87th Miss Jarvis Christian University. “That’s why we’re here – to represent our institution and show students who look like us that they can pursue higher education in an environment where they are surrounded by people who share their experiences and aspirations.”

Community organizations such as the Children’s Defense Fund, BCFS Health and Human Services, Christy’s Safe Haven, and local leaders – including members of the City Council and Divine Nine sororities and fraternities – were also present.

“This is my second year doing this at Bonner and every year gets better,” Carston said. “I’m just thankful for all of the organizations that came together and helped, and especially thankful to my principal for the opportunity to do this.”