February is Black History Month.  
The Association for the Study of African-American Life and History has designated “The Souls of Black Folk:  Centennial Reflections” as the theme for Black History Month 2003.  This is an excellent time to focus on the many contributions and achievements of African-Americans in the national and local arena.  Students could research civil rights events, authors or historical figures and present their findings to the class or student body through their choice of creative expression.  To encourage social skills and understanding, assign students the task of interviewing an African-American over the age of 60 for their perspective on the last several decades and how things have or have not changed in our society.  Have students brainstorm about how they would like to observe the month to give them a sense of ownership in the decision-making process. 
 
The Association for the Study of African-American Life and History’s website, where you can purchase a theme-related kit: http://www.asalh.com/  
 
 
American Heart Month
Encourage students to share their thoughts on what constitutes a heart-healthy lifestyle.  Then have them research the factors that contribute to heart disease and stroke.  Students could compile their findings in a pamphlet or brochure to take home to their families or distribute in the community.  Engage students in reflection about the choices they make that influence their health.  If you are feeling ambitious, organize “Jump Rope for Heart,” an educational fundraising event held in elementary schools to raise money for medical research and programs that prevent heart disease and stroke.  By organizing such an event, students will learn about the benefits of exercise and experience the value of giving back to their community. 
 
American Heart Association website
http://www.americanheart.org/
 
National Wild Bird Feeding Month  
February is one of the most difficult months for wild birds to survive in the US.  Organize a class project to help the birds in your area.  Students could create bird feeders out of pinecones, peanut butter and seeds to hang in the schoolyard or to take home.  Encourage students to learn what types of birds use the feeders in the community.  Remind them that the birds also require water and shelter.  Endangered species of birds could also be discussed.
 
National Audubon Society website:
http://www.audubon.org/
  
National Children’s Dental Health Month  
This is an opportune time to encourage students to develop good oral health habits.  Check out the American Dental Association’s website at http://www.ada.org/ where you can download puzzles and games to encourage dental awareness.  They also have materials that can be ordered, and “Dental Minutes,” short educational clips that can be viewed on a computer.  Have students create posters or brochures to inform the rest of the student body about the importance of regular dental care.   
 
Anniversary of Nelson Mandela’s Prison Release:  Feb 11, 1990  
Having served more than 27 ½ years of a life sentence, Nelson Mandela was released on this date.  He was originally convicted, with eight others, of sabotage and conspiracy to overthrow South Africa's government, serving as a political prisoner for his anti-apartheid work.  Have students research Mandela’s life and apartheid in South Africa.  Encourage students to reflect on what they stand for and what they can do in their own community to promote their ideals.  You could also engage students in a service-learning project that would benefit inmates and increase students’ understanding of the justice system.  
 
African National Congress biography of Mandela
www.anc.org.za/people/mandela.html
 
February 12 is Abraham Lincoln’s Birth Anniversary and Lost Penny Day  
As it is Lincoln’s depiction on the copper penny, it seems appropriate that this day is set aside to put those stashed away pennies to use.  Have students bring in those extra pennies and create a special “bank” in which to collect them.  Younger students could apply math skills by keeping track of the incoming pennies.  Facilitate a brainstorming session to develop a list of community organizations that could use donations.  Students can give short presentations on why “their” organization deserves the money.  The class can decide on the most convincing arguments and donate the money to those corresponding organizations.  Include students in the delivery of the donation.    
  
NAACP Founded on Feb. 12, 1909  
The legal wing of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People was instrumental in challenging segregation in the 1950s and 60s.  Students could learn about the founders and successful lawsuits through a variety of media.  Have students contact a local branch to find out what it is currently doing and invite a member to come speak to the classroom.  The NAACP website, at http://www.naacp.org/, provides a link to help you locate the branch nearest your community.
   
Race Relations Day is February 14  
Since many people only celebrate Valentine’s Day on this date, this special day often goes unnoticed.  Inform your students of its existence and encourage them to consider the importance of interracial relations.  If your school is not racially diverse, connect with one that is, whether that be within the state, country or world.  Students could be assigned pen pals or if the school is near enough, a joint service-learning project could be arranged.