Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, and Members of the Hackensack School Community,

Tomorrow, our schools will be closed in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. This is a day set aside to honor the life, service, and enduring legacy of a man who courageously stood for justice, peace, and human dignity. There is perhaps no more important time than now for us to pause, reflect, and recommit ourselves to the values Dr. King embodied. Often referred to as the “Drum Major for Peace, Righteousness, and Justice,” Dr. King reminded us that true leadership is rooted in service, compassion, and moral courage.

As we consider the current state of our nation, our cities, and our schools, we are called to remain vigilant and intentional in rejecting unrest, intolerance, hatred, and disunity. Instead, we must actively promote acceptance, understanding, and respect for all. Dr. King’s work teaches us that change does not happen in isolation—it happens when individuals come together, persevere through adversity, and collaborate for the common good.

Dr. King led with purpose during times of great turmoil, never losing sight of his dream for a more just and equitable society. That dream remains as relevant and necessary today as it was during his lifetime. While tomorrow marks a single day of remembrance, his legacy must be honored through our daily action in our classrooms, our homes, and our community. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that our students not only learn about Dr. King’s contributions, but also understand and live the values he championed, so they may continue his work well into the future.

On behalf of the Hackensack School District, I wish you all a peaceful and reflective Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Sincerely,

Andrea Oates-Parchment

Andrea Oates-Parchment