Northside Elementary History Night

On November 13, Northside Elementary opened its doors to families, neighbors, and community partners for Northside History Night, an evening celebrating the deep roots, stories, and creative spirit of the Northside Neighborhood.

The night brought together past and present as alumni and elders who once attended Northside when the school was segregated shared personal memories of resilience, friendship, and belonging. Families and students gathered around listening, bridging generations through shared history and reflection.

We were honored to participate through our Rising Voice Poetry initiative. Poet and educator Cortland Gilliam shared an original poem honoring the Northside Neighborhood and the strength of its legacy. Afterward, fifth-grade students took the mic to present their own collaborative class poems, words they had crafted together in workshops exploring the theme of belonging. Hearing their voices echo through the cafeteria was a powerful moment that connected the creative energy of today’s young writers to the lived history of those who came before them.

Throughout the evening, families explored interactive stations led by teachers and local organizations, from oral history activities and art projects to exhibits hosted by the Marian Cheek Jackson Center, Chapel Hill Public Library, and other partners. Conversations flowed easily between elders, students, teachers and neighbors, as everyone reflected on what Northside means to them and how its story continues to evolve.