YOUR TOWN

Beachside Elementary celebrates Black History Month with read-in event

It had been a long-standing tradition at the former Osceola Elementary to host the event every February.

By Observer staff
| 12:00 p.m. March 7, 2023

A Volusia Sheriff's Office deputy participated in Beachside Elementary's African American Read-in event on Feb. 23. Photo courtesy of Melissa Heller

Volusia Sheriff's Office Deputy L. Mendoza reads to Beachside Elementary students on Feb. 23. Photo courtesy of Melissa Heller

Daytona Beach City Commissioner Dannette Henry reads to Beachside Elementary students on Feb. 23. Photo courtesy of Melissa Heller

Art teacher Kelsi Quicksall-Jones peeks out from a Black History Month-themed door. Photo courtesy of Melissa Heller

Beachside Elementary hosted an African American Read-in event in honor of Black History Month. Photo courtesy of Melissa Heller

Teaher Jennifer Kuftic won the door decorating contest in honor of Black History Month at Beachside Elementary. Photo courtesy of Melissa Heller

Beachside Elementary teacher Amy Stoner and Earl Johnson, chief operating officer for Volusia County Schools. Photo courtesy of Melissa Heller

Ormond Beach Observer
Your Town

On Feb. 23, Beachside Elementary hosted an African American Read In event in honor of Black History Month.

It had been a long-standing tradition at Osceola Elementary to host the event every February, Beachside Elementary first grade teacher Amy stoner said in a statement to the Observer. Beachside Elementary was created as a result of the merger between Osceola and Ortona Elementary, and the tradition lives on.

"We wanted to continue that tradition here at our new school Beachside Elementary and it was a success," Stoner said. "We had leaders from our community come out to read to every classroom. Our students loved welcoming them and hearing the stories they shared."