The annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration at Lyons Elementary School is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Led by music teacher Mrs. Barrigar, the program gives students a meaningful opportunity to learn about history and the power of kindness and service.
Mrs. Barrigar kept the tradition alive this year by shifting to a virtual format due to auditorium construction.
“This celebration is about helping students see how their words and actions can make a positive impact,” she said. “It teaches them how to accept people for who they are.”
The tradition began in 2012 and has continued to grow, blending music, readings, and student participation into a powerful celebration. This year’s program featured sixth graders reading lines from Dr. King’s I Have a Dream speech, first graders performing songs in his honor, and the elementary chorus adding music that brought the message to life.
Students also participated in the annual MLK Contest, reflecting on what freedom means and how they can make a positive impact through everyday acts of kindness, service, and respect for others.
Winners of this year’s MLK Contest were announced at the MLK celebration on Friday, January 16th.
MLK Contest Winners:
Clara Baker, Madison McKinney, Chy'Relle Parker, Emmett Wunder, and Brooklyn DeWolf
Beyond the performances, the celebration helps students build stronger connections with one another and their teachers, reinforcing Dr. King’s message that words and actions matter and that everyone belongs.
Mrs. Barrigar says the celebration is a reminder that even small actions can create meaningful change and that every student has the power to make a difference.
