The energy was high, the questions were tough, and the pride in the room was undeniable at this year’s Black History Bowl.
A huge thank you to the Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum for continuing to champion this powerful tradition. Year after year, this event brings together students, educators, families, and community members to celebrate knowledge, culture, and legacy in a way that’s both competitive and inspiring. CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS
Scholars from Lanphier High School, Springfield Southeast High School, and Springfield High School - Illinois went head-to-head in Southeast's Auditorium, and let’s just say, they brought it. It was a tight race filled with impressive depth, quick thinking, and serious preparation. When the final scores were tallied, Springfield High School claimed the championship title. 
One of the most powerful moments of the day? A special lightning round dedicated entirely to Black history rooted right here in Springfield. Local leaders. Local milestones. Local impact. It was a reminder that history isn’t just something found in textbook, it lives in our neighborhoods, our schools, and our families.
Events like the Black History Bowl matter. They create space for students to see themselves in history, to honor the contributions that shaped our community, and to build confidence through academic excellence. They strengthen connections between schools and the broader community. And they show our students that their knowledge, their voices, and their heritage are worth celebrating loudly.
To every scholar who studied, competed, and represented their school with pride, your brilliance lights the way forward.