MCS eighth graders gathered with their families and classmates on Monday, April 11, for a scaled down version of the traditional MLK Commemorative March. The annual event, now in its 34th year, is organized by the eighth grade class and illustrates one of the many ways MCS celebrates the steadfast humanitarian work of the late civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Marching Toward A Better Tomorrow, the theme of this year's march, touched on pressing civil rights issues including: mental health, prison reform, climate change, racism, women’s rights, and gender bias. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative March illustrates how the school’s progressive curriculum and commitment to social justice helps each student’s voice develop into that of an articulate, compassionate activist.
Under the guidance of English teacher Tom Grattan, the eighth graders spent several weeks planning the march, including selecting the theme and route and writing their own speeches. Through this process, students learn to organize, collaborate, negotiate, advocate, conduct research and write persuasively.
Each year the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative March exemplifies the capacity of youth leadership to affect change. Thank you for marching with us!