First and second graders at the Mitnick School in Cold Spring were introduced to jazz during an assembly Jan. 17 in anticipation of Black History Month. The Kyle Cripps Quintet played Duke Ellington compositions and explained their instruments.

In addition, teachers demonstrated swing dancing. At the finale, a number of students danced, following swing dance instruction in gym class.

Art Teacher Roberta Cripps organized the event which included studying the paintings of William H. Johnson. The event was funded by a grant from the Cape Education Fund with help from Paramount Air Service.