Students and staff at MV enjoyed an extended weekend. The weekend got a jumpstart on Friday, January 13 with an 11:40 dismissal. The break continued into Monday with students not returning to class until Tuesday morning, January. 

“I am still trying to get back in the swing of things since winter break, so a long weekend will help me adjust back to school,” shared Kaitlyn Blachly, ‘23.

Though the extended break is great, it is important to remember why we get to enjoy the long weekend: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

Dr. King was an activist as well as a minister who helped lead the civil rights movement through peaceful protest, most notably remembered for his “I Have a Dream” speech delivered at the Washington Monument in 1963. MLK was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee on April 4, 1968.

“MLK Day is very important to me. If it weren’t for him and the others who helped contribute to the civil rights movement, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” shared Justice Malone, ‘23.

There are many ways to observe the holiday.

“I watched a documentary over the weekend,” shared Blachly.

“I spent Monday receiving a scholarship through the NAACP, recognizing all of my accomplishments throughout high school, and also got to play basketball versus Carbondale, which resulted in a Lady Rams victory,” shared Malone.

Hopefully the weekend was utilized by both enjoying the long weekend and reflection over the significance of the holiday.