Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, April 18, 1991 TAG: 9104190341
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: S-8 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: NEAL THOMPSON EDUCATION WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Though King was born on Jan. 15, the third Monday of January has been designated Martin Luther Jr. Day and for five years has been observed as a federal holiday and as a paid holiday in every state except Arizona, Montana and New Hampshire.
Highland Park Learning Center PTA secretary Sharon London told School Board members that because it's a federal holiday, they should show city students what a special day that is by giving them the day off.
At a recent board meeting, London was told the board had already decided to approve a 1991-92 school calendar that did not give students the day off for King's holiday. They denied her request to postpone a vote, and the board unanimously adopted its calendar for next school year.
"This was quite disappointing," London told the board.
Mary Hackley, director of elementary education, said the administration felt it was more important for students to stay in school and learn that day. Hackley also challenged teachers to make that day special by finding things for them to do and learn about King.
She also said teachers should be preparing students for the holiday in the weeks before it occurs and added: "It's not just a one-day celebration."
A 40-person calendar committee discussed the possibility of giving students the day off for King's holiday. But after collecting comments for next year's calendar from school principals, the committee decided against it, executive for staff development and personnel Faye Pleasants told London.
"It is very much the belief of this division that we can best represent the ideals of Dr. King by conducting school that day," Pleasants said.
by CNB