QCSD students inspire on MLK Day

Dr. Martin Luther King’s inspiring words made their mark in classrooms throughout the Quakertown Community School District (QCSD) in the days leading up to Monday’s holiday and on the day itself. Teachers did a wonderful job of sharing Dr. King’s message and giving students a forum to think critically of what his message means today.

Strayer Middle School student leaders in the National Junior Honor Society came up with several great ideas, including a common school-wide lesson in each Strayer class last Friday about how each student can provide the change the world needs. Students also developed a host of service ideas, including the creation of videos and crafts that were shared with each QCSD elementary school to teach students about Dr. King.

At the high school, the Social Justice Alliance (SJA) provided the creative impetus for ways to serve the community. On Monday afternoon, SJA advisors Bethany Fuller and Helena Li hosted two virtual Spark Talks on the topics of systemic racism and giving back.

Students participated in several service-related events, including making cards for residents of a local nursing home; recording videos of themselves reading a children’s book out loud in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The videos were shared with QCSD’s elementary schools; and they collected donations for Valentine’s Day gift baskets for families in need.

“I’m certainly proud of the work we’ve done,” high school senior Megan Godshalk said. “It’s vital for students and teachers to continue the work for a safer, inclusive environment for all. We have to think what it will be like for kindergartners when they’re in our shoes one day. Each class must continue to have a better experience.”