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Receive and File a Discussion on the Engagement of Schools for the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
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Meeting Date: August 27, 2025
Contact Person/Dept: Dorian J Jackson/PRCS Department
Phone Number: (310) 253-6668
Fiscal Impact: Yes [] No [X] General Fund: Yes [] No []
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: Yes [] No [X]
Public Notification: (E-mail) Meetings and Agendas - MLK Celebration and Juneteenth Advisory Committee (8/21/2025); (E-mail) Parks, Recreation & Community Service Department Updates (8/21/2025)
Department Approval: Ted Stevens, PRCS Director (8/21/2025)
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RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Juneteenth Celebration Advisory Committee Receive and File a discussion on the engagement of schools for the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
BACKGROUND
At the June 18, 2025, meeting of The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Juneteenth Celebration Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee), members requested there be an agendize item to discuss the engagement strategies specifically for high school students.
In response, staff has broadened the scope of this discussion to include all school-aged children and college students, recognizing the value of engaging youth at all educational levels for this culturally and historically significant event.
DISCUSSION
The purpose of this discussion is to explore ways to involve students in the planning, participation, and celebration of the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Engagement could take many forms, including:
• Art, essay, or multimedia contests
• School- or campus-based educational activities and assemblies
• Volunteer or leadership opportunities related to the events
• Partnerships with school districts, colleges, student clubs, or youth organizations
• Participation in parades, performances, or ceremonies
Also, it is good to consider:
• What age groups to prioritize (elementary, middle, high school, college)
• What types of engagement would be most impactful or feasible
• How schools, colleges, and districts might best be approached or involved
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this discussion.
ATTACHMENTS
None.
MOTIONS
That the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Juneteenth Celebration Advisory Committee:
Receive and File Discussion on the engagement of schools for the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration