Superintendent's Message on Dr. MLK Jr Day
Dear EHPS Community,
For four decades, our nation has paused on the third Monday of January to honor the life and enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While his work is etched in history, its true heartbeat is found in the work we do every day within our schools and our community. Dr. King’s life remains a powerful reminder that even in complex times, we possess the agency to inspire, motivate, and uplift those around us by leaning into our unique sphere of influence.
The "ripple effect" of our daily work is profound. Every intentional interaction, whether it is a word of encouragement to a colleague or a moment of high expectations for a student, has the potential to shift a perspective or brighten a future. As we move through this year, let us remain intentional in choosing understanding over division and conscientiousness over indifference.
Reflecting on the history of this day, President Ronald Reagan noted upon the bill’s signing that true change requires "the spirit of love and mutuality." He reminded us that to move forward as a diverse nation, we must rise above our differences to work toward a shared, brighter future. Today, that call to unite remains as urgent as ever.
It has now been over a decade since President Barack Obama challenged us to lift one voice in the fight for "good jobs, fair wages, safe neighborhoods, and quality education." He reminded us that justice and opportunity must be accessible to every person, without exception. As we serve the students and families of East Hartford, we are the frontline of that mission.
As we honor Dr. King’s legacy, I encourage each of us to ask: How are we using our daily energy to create the positive change our community deserves?
Let’s continue this vital work with a renewed sense of commitment and a shared purpose. Our collective efforts are the bricks and mortar of the "Beloved Community" Dr. King envisioned.
Sincerely,
Thomas Anderson
Superintendent