Middle School Dreams on Display at MLK Assembly

From Middle School Director Mary Dolbear

What can you do with four minutes and 42 seconds and 168 middle school students?
Some magic was created in our Big Room at the Middle School on January 15 that warrants pause, recognition, and inspiration.

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, the Middle School held a community gathering with music, artwork, and reflections. The theme was “stepping up” and the program honored heroes, those who aspired for an ideal, and/or those who worked to carry out Dr. King’s dream.

Middle school voices are often stereotyped. Much of society suggests that Middle School students are typically and uniquely self-absorbed, alienated, rebellious and driven by their peer culture; nevertheless, our students stepped up in heartwarming ways and proved the stereotypes wrong. While Crazy in Alabama by Kate Campbell played in the background during our assembly, students sat quietly for the length of the song (four minutes and 42 seconds) and completed our custom-made If I Can Dream cards.

Our kids can and do speak from their heart and as a culture, we need to listen carefully. Society can underestimate both the wisdom and potential of this age group. They represent our future and deserve our attention. I am grateful for and inspired by their honest reflections and dreams. CLICK HERE to read some of their responses.

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