TEACHING to LEAD with LOVE

BY DR. JENN MILAM, PAMELA K. MURFIN HEAD OF SCHOOL

Next Monday the country will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as a national day of observance. As one of the most prominent leaders of the civil rights movement, his work and leadership in the quest for peace and justice for all continues to guide and encourage all of us to accept others in their full humanity, to give of ourselves in service, and to work toward a more just world for all. What most people don't know is that Dr. King was a reluctant leader, who began his career as a preacher and never sought to lead in the movement. Rather, a series of events transpired that propelled him to the forefront of what would become one of the most significant historical movements in modern times.

While federal agencies, banks, the US Postal Service, and many schools will take the day off in observance, many have come to see the holiday as a "Day to Serve" - to reflect the spirit of Dr. King and his work. Across the metroplex, there are events planned from galas to parades, poetry readings, art exhibits, and plenty of volunteer opportunities. I want to encourage you to explore these opportunities and invite you to share the day with your student doing something new. Being in community, hearing the voices and stories through which the civil rights movement lives on, and giving to the betterment of one's community were all at the heart of Dr. King's life. It's an incredible chance to try something new and to model and teach what it means to lead with love. You can learn more about events and opportunities around the DFW area at the following links:

• NBC5 Dallas
  https://www.nbcdfw.com/about-nbc-5/community/martin-luther-king-jr-day-celebrations-happening-across-dallas-fort-worth-2/3737972/

• Fort Worth Moms
  https://fwmoms.com/holiday/how-and-where-to-volunteer-on-martin-luther-king-jr-day-of-service/

• KERA News (NPR for North Texas)
  https://www.keranews.org/arts-culture/2024-12-30/celebrate-the-legacy-of-dr-martin-luther-king-jr-at-these-events-in-dallas-fort-worth

Let us remember, the words of Dr. King...

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: Only love can do that"