Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Lessons in Leadership and Service for Students

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?”  – Martin Luther King Jr.

This quote, among dozens of others from Dr. King, is an incredible map for today’s generation of young people and learners. For those who dream of becoming leaders, there is no better example than Dr. King and the principles he stood for.

In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Arizona Virtual Academy Executive Director, Forrest Smith, shares his thoughts on how several of Dr. King’s most recognized quotes remain applicable to the young people who someday soon are going to lead the world.

“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”

At Arizona Virtual Academy, students are learning so much more than the core curriculum. They are doing as Dr. King encourages, thinking critically inside and out of the classroom. Because of this, we know they will be the changemakers the world needs.

“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

Perseverance is another powerful lesson from Dr. King’s life and one that made him one of our nation’s most impactful leaders. He encountered resistance, setbacks and personal sacrifice, but always remained committed to his mission. Dr. King’s example reminds us that meaningful change takes time and persistence. Growth comes from continuing forward, even when the path is hard.

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

Our students know the strength it takes to overcome challenges and as their lives continue, there are going to be more obstacles to tackle. To be a true leader, you must stand up for what is right, protect others and care for the world even when it is more difficult than staying in your comfort zone.

“Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.”

Service was central to Dr. King’s vision of a strong community. Caring for one another and working together to make our homes a great place to live, work and learn. Getting involved in service is a great step in becoming a leader. For students, service can take many forms like volunteering at a local food bank, cleaning up a neighborhood park or simply helping a classmate in need.

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter”

Dr. King was passionate about speaking out on the matters he believed in. His voice started a movement that enacted real change. Students can learn from his example by using their own voices thoughtfully and responsibly. Whether through participating in student government, writing about issues that matter, engaging in respectful dialogue or even using social media to spread awareness and kindness, when used with intention, every voice has the potential to make a difference.

This MLK Day, don’t just reflect on the history he made, apply his lessons in your world. And if you’re looking for somewhere to start, AZVA provides meaningful opportunities for students to connect, serve, and grow as leaders. I invite students to get involved and take the next steps toward becoming the changemakers of tomorrow.

To learn more about AZVA or to enroll today, click here.