Black History Month is more than a month on the calendar; it’s a living legacy shaped daily through the dedication of individuals like our coaches, education and student body. Lamar has a Black legacy that lives on to this today, and it shines within each Texan.
Coach Green
As the head track coach and football coach, Coach Green embodies a commitment to empowering young Black men and women through athletics, using sports as a platform to instill values, foster resilience, and inspire future leaders. “My goal has always been to give these young Black men and women a positive role model, someone they can look up to,” Green explains. “I want to help create opportunities for them, whether through athletics or by motivating them to stay on task and do what they’re supposed to be doing. I try to be honest with them about the world we live in and some of the challenges they’ll face. Athletics can be a great motivator, teaching them how to work hard through difficult situations.”
Green’s impact stretches far beyond the track or football field. While his focus is on sports, his lessons translate into life skills. He acknowledges one of the biggest hurdles many young people face, and thinks beyond the present. “The biggest hurdle is getting them to see the future and to understand that their current situation is temporary. They need to make decisions that will affect their long-term success. Young people often act based on today, but I want them to focus on what they want to accomplish as they grow older and move on in life,” says Green.
Tekila Steward
But it isn’t just Green with this empowering mindset; English teacher Tekila Steward shares how even though it’s her first year here at Lamar, she has a vision for her students, especially her young Black students.
“My main goal is to give my students more exposure, I feel like they don’t see as much of the world and the reality of it and I want to be able to provide that for them, I want to give them a different lens to look through than their own,” says Steward. “Having these young Black students understand the importance of cultural exposure is my primary goal while also motivating them to continue striving for success, and seeing them become the best versions of themselves is what I’m here for,” says Steward. It’s one of the greatest joys of my life working with young people of color and helping them see their true potential. Being there for their biggest triumphs, motivating them to continue striving for success, and seeing them become the best versions of themselves is what I’m here for,” says Stewart.
Amia Davis
Lamar High School has become a place where young Black students form meaningful bonds while growing academically. Through class discussions and shared experiences, classrooms foster connection and a sense of belonging. “Majority of us young Black students see reflections of ourselves in the stories we read and in each other, which helps us feel seen and understood,” says senior Amia Davis. These relationships shape the school’s culture, building confidence and pride among students. “When they realize they’re part of a community that believes in them, they start to believe in themselves,” Davis adds. We are proud to honor and highlight the never-ending support and representation shown during not only Black History Month, but year round, inspiring change and confidence in every Black student. No matter how hard it seems, our Black students shine and motivate us to move in the direction of greatness, changing our community for the better always.
