Explore Taps Into Black History Month

Explore Middle School celebrated Black History Month with a fruitful show of performances done by students, and professional tap dance duo the "Foreman Brothers" on February 23rd, 2024. Students were floored by their astonishing performances and were excited to see the bountiful lessons of culture unfold.  

“As a dancer I love and appreciate dance in all its forms. I think the tap showcase was literally so cool. And I think it was something engaging on so many levels. Really cool!” said Melody Hartman-Kelly, a freshman from High Tech High School.

Jaden and Ellis Foreman showed their tap talent for Black History Month, stunning both students and staff. The Foreman brothers based out of the New Jersey area have performed many different tap dances, such as "War Dance" and "Blue Bossa." They made their television debut on "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" two years ago.

“I think that this showcase was very fun and everybody was in such good spirits, we had a great time,” said Gianna Baselice, an Eighth Grader at Explore Middle School.

The Explore Middle school students followed up the brothers' performance with special performances of their own, representing their unity, friendship and support for this wonderful celebration. Nia Jackson, an eighth grader, and Isabella Marandino, a sixth grader, gave speeches empowering themselves and inspirational black figures in history while the Dance Club performed a mix of "Single Ladies" and "Diva" by Beyonce. Finally, vocal arts students from Explore, High Tech and County Prep collaborated on a singing performance of "Lovely Day" by Bill Withers.

“It was really fun,” said eighth-grader Kennhi Nguyen, who partook in the event as host of a "Podblast" segment. 

“It was fun because I got to perform in front of the whole school,” added Ryan Kang, who performed a piano piece.

The celebration was a success, and looks to be an annual tradition.