BOZEMAN — For the first time, Bozeman High School students had the day off for Martin Luther King Junior Day.
“It’s the most important thing to do, is to give back and think about what you’re giving back to your community,” said Nicholas Dobler, a senior at Bozeman High School.
BHS teacher Derek Strahn said just under 90 students showed up to school on the holiday to volunteer and give back to the community.
“The plan today was to somehow encourage students to emulate the message of King,” said Strahn.
“In years passed, they've heard speeches about King, but it’s been a very passive process of learning.”
The service event day was coordinated by a group of Social Studies teachers that have been working with clubs like Student Council, Human RIghts Club and National Honors Society.
Activities benefited the HRDC’s Gallatin Valley Food Bank Healthy KidsPack program, the Warming Center, and the Bozeman High School’s Shelf Program.
Students also stayed busy writing thank you letters to custodians and administrative staff at the high school, and writing birthday cards to people in need.
“It’s a cool opportunity to to serve different groups within our community all at the same time while hanging out with friends and doing it in a fun, high-paced environment,” said Ellie Bertram, a senior at Bozeman High School.
Supplies purchased for the event came from a grant from Bozeman High’s Student Council.
“I think MLK Day's a great day to recognize, like a great day to give back to the community and not only recognize the great things MLK has done for our society, but to also give back to your own community and society as a whole,” said Dobler.
