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Lower School Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr.

By Julia Ehringhaus Noel '08

On Wednesday, January 13, I had the pleasure of attending the 8th Annual celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lower School students experienced the museum walk where they learned about Dr. King’s life and works, as well as about changemakers and young activists who are living out this year's theme of, “Let Change Begin With Me.” Classes listened to Upper School students, Foster and William Harris '20, and Laura Saavedra '21 about their work to better our community through their non-profit organizations, as well as learn about Greta Thunberg and Kheris Rogers from docents.

During the assembly, we listened to fourth grade students recite passages from Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech while seeing historic photos on the stage. The eloquence and poise these young people demonstrated was impressive. Each of them stepped up to the microphone and glanced at their coach, Country Day third grade teacher Delphia Daniel. With her guidance they spoke the time-honored words of Dr. Martin Luther King ,Jr – an impressive feat. The third grade choir sang a beautiful rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine.” Seeing these students, so full of promise and innocence, singing those famous words was very special. The Dance Team, led by Critesha Green and Gary Mumford, danced to Nigerian welcome dance and song, Fanga Alafia. The whole room was clapping and cheering – to the absolute delight of the children. Upper School students participated as well, singing a beautiful rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” as well as sharing poetry about Martin Luther King, Jr.

Our oldest and youngest students were all together celebrating change, love, diversity, activism, and friendship. This is what it means to be a community. It was truly a special day for our school, and as an alumna, I could not be more proud of our students, teachers, and leaders.

Special thanks to all who organized and coordinated this wonderful event: Jovonne Taborn, Brian Wise, Elise Ernette, Karl Hoffman, Rebecca Patterson, Kato Nims, Lori Townsend, Mike McMillen, and Logan Smith.