News & Events

Students in all three divisions learned more about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in chapels in January.

On January 14, Lower School learned about Dr. King through the art of dance. Dance Master Elbert Watson performed an original piece as Dr. King's “I Have a Dream" speech played over the speakers. Dr. King gave that speech during the March on Washington in August 1963.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day was celebrated this year on January 19. In addition to honoring Dr. King, that day also is a national Day of Service. On January 16, both Middle and Upper School chapels centered on the theme of giving back.

Upper School Director Sarah Goodson '99 played a video created by Dr. King's son, Martin Luther King III, in which he highlights his father's fierce battle on behalf of workers' rights and against poverty and inequity. Goodson also shared an excerpt from the school's Philosophy that emphasizes service: “Norfolk Academy prepares students for their role in creating a just society. We educate them to become engaged, responsible, and useful citizens of a democracy in an interconnected world."

She encouraged Upper School students to get involved in helping others, both by volunteering in the community or at school. She closed with a quote from Dr. King: “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve."

Middle School heard from Doug Ellis '00, who helped found the River Ellis Foundation with his wife Rachel after losing their daughter, River. The foundation helps others facing unexpected hardship. After that speech, students spent the morning serving throughout the Hampton Roads community at more than a dozen partner organizations. In the afternoon they wrote notes and filled care packages for those less fortunate.