STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Discovery STEM Academy 5th grader Adrianna Brown
Planned Black History Month program for her school
Posted: February 28, 2024
Adrianna Brown's curiosity and love of learning keep her seeking new information and looking for ways to share it with classmates.
Brown, a fifth grader at Discovery STEM Academy, is a leader in her school. She is co-president of DSA's Student Council Association, frequently helps with second grade students and loves writing.
Interested in African American history and wanting to learn more, Brown organized a Black History Month event "Know the Past, Shape the Future" open to all DSA families that took place February 7. She first got interested in the topic two years ago, she said.
"It's important to know what was going on around you and to learn what's going on around you, just in case you hear something special that you want to talk about or learn about," she said.
The event included guest speakers, a trivia game, food trucks and singing.
The granddaughter and niece of Mary Jackson, one of the first Black female mathematicians and aerospace engineers at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, later known as NASA Langley in Hampton, spoke about her life and work. Brown's grandfather, Carey J. Brown, Sr., who is bishop at Deeper Life World Outreach Ministries, spoke about his family, their achievements and the importance of HBCUs. Jazz singer Esther Jones was also highlighted.
Brown said she was interested in organizing the event after her grandfather told her about his experiences during racially segregated times and Corinthia Robinson, media assistant at DSA, taught students Black history. Brown responded to her writing assignments by producing a bunch of essays.
The event was the next step for her.
"I really did it because I was impressed by what they've overcome during it," Brown said. "So I decided to make something to honor all the people who did that. So, yes, it was important."
Outside of school, Brown is very involved with family, church and dance. She practices four times a week as part of the nationalaward-winning competition team at Dreams in Motion Dance Studio. Brown also performs as part of a large church choir.
"Adrianna is a driven individual," said DSA fifth grade teacher Mark Egerton. "She strives to excel in everything she attempts and encourages others to do their best as well. She has a curious mind and a desire to learn. I am so proud of her for organizing this event."
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