Each class took to the stage to share their tribute with the school. Junior kindergarten performed “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” a song written as a poem by James Weldon Johnson, and first grade presented their own adaptation of King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. Second and fourth graders shared the accomplishments of other change-makers who have been inspired by Dr. King, ranging from Ruby Bridges and the Little Rock Nine to Greta Thunberg, Colin Kaepernick, and Alicia Garza.

The presentation culminated with third, fourth, and fifth grade students singing John Legend’s song “If You’re Out There.” Its message- a call to action for young people to be the change that we want to see- echoes Waterside’s mission to empower its students and instill within them a belief in their own worth. The students emphasized- in every way- that the time is always right to do the right thing. Indeed, Dr. King’s fight for equality and his fierce desire for justice have made the dream of Waterside School a reality.