At the February 13th Board of Education meeting, two of our incredible Raiders from Proctor High School and Donovan Middle School presented to the audience to honor Black history through the power of words.

Kiara Harrison, a senior at Proctor High School, wowed the audience with an original poem she wrote about Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Valentina Johnson, a student at Donovan Middle School, delivered a moving reading of "Hey, Black Child" by Useni Eugene Perkins.

The audience erupted in applause and both students received a much deserved standing ovation. Valentina and Kiara are both actively involved in numerous clubs and extracurricular activities, making the most of the opportunities available to students here at Utica City School District.

The Utica City School District is so proud of Kiara and Valentina’s talent, dedication to their studies, and leadership!

#UticaUnited