Students from the Manteca Unified School District honored the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. this past week.

Included was Lathrop Elementary School, where Justin Ledezma fifth-grade class took a deep dive into history, working as team to focus on key moments from the life of the martyred Civil Rights leader.

Students, who had Monday off – Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday observed on the third Monday of January – conducted presentations on his impact of events in American history last week.

“Their presentations explored topics ranging from the Montgomery Bus Boycott to his famous ‘I Have Dream’ speech, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and more,” said MUSD officials.

After this class exercise, students had a chance to reflect in their own words on why these moments mattered and why Dr. King’s legacy continues to shape the nation even today.

“I learned that standing up for your rights is good,” said Myles, who was among those sharing on his reflection of MLK Jr.

Classmate Julian noted, “I learned that even though some people are divided by race – we are all human at the end of the day.”

Lindsay pointed out that “everybody should have rights.”

Nathalie, in addition, said, “Despite people’s status, we are all the same and if one doesn’t make you feel equal (then) it’s only fair to stand up for yourself.”

Through this project, students also practiced grade-level skills across the various subject, researching history, creating visual presentations, and building on their writing and speaking skills.

They shared ideas and led in the class discussions on MLK Jr.