Pittsburgh Faison Pre K-5 dedicated Thursday night, November 5, 2015, as the first “Dr. Helen Faison Day” with a special showcase highlighting the stellar six decades of service Dr. Helen S. Faison contributed to Pittsburgh Public Schools.
One of the first African American teachers in the Pittsburgh Public School District, Dr. Helen S. Faison dedicated more than 43 years of tremendous work to the district and Pittsburgh Homewood community. The theme of the event, “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants”, relates to the long list of students and educators after her that she educationally stimulated and inspired. Dr. Helen S. Faison’s strong impact helped to shape numerous lives and careers.
“As a school and a community, we wanted to take the time to recognize the work of Dr. Helen Faison. We are standing on her shoulders and through public education, community service, and professional development, we realize the way she has paved for us,” said Dr. Russell Patterson, Principal.
Students, family, and community affiliates were greeted by a musical assembly played by Pittsburgh Obama Drum line as the guests entered Pittsburgh Faison’s corridors. Upon entrance guests were then welcomed by staff before being directed into the school’s cafeteria where they engaged in a special food demonstration led by Chef Dave and Farmer Courtney. This demonstration gave guests a front row seat to what they would be served for dinner following the showcase and instructions on how to make the meal at home.
Vendors including RIFF (Reading Is Fundamental), PAEYC (Pittsburgh Association for the Education of Young Children), Black Educators Network of Greater Pittsburgh, National Independent Black Parents Association, PITT (University of Pittsburgh), HELEN (Homewood Early Learning Experience Network), and Community Empowerment Association assembled throughout the halls and passed out insightful information for students and parents pertaining to their particular organization.
The Pittsburgh Obama Drum Line led guests into the school’s gymnasium with a musical selection to start the show. The showcase included interactive selections from both Pittsburgh Faison Pre K-5 choir and Pittsburgh Obama Drum Line. Following the musical selections, a Read-Aloud was conducted by Mike Nichols, a Pittsburgh Public Schools volunteer known for reading to students for more than 20 years.
Speakers included Superintendent Linda Lane, Chatham University Professor Dr. Tyra Good, Board Member Sylvia Wilson, and Dr. Faison’s niece Ellen Sandidge. Each speaker spoke profoundly of Dr. Faison, embarking on historical facts that many did not know. As the show came to a close the audience stayed highly engaged at every moment wanting to know more about the trailblazing pioneer Dr. Helen S. Faison. The night ended with a remarkable standing ovation after an interactive selection performed by the Pittsburgh Faison Pre K-5 choir.
Guests were served dinner afterwards in the school’s Cafeteria. The school hopes to continue the event “Dr. Helen Faison Day” annually.
The event committee included Pittsburgh Faison Pre K-5 Principal Dr. Russell Patterson, Pittsburgh Faison Project Assistant Angelica Cooper, and Public Information Intern Alexis Tippett.
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