Every January, the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) commemorates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a key figure in American civil rights history. Superintendent Dr. Denise Saddler reflected on her personal memories of Dr. King’s impact and his influence on the community.
Dr. Saddler recalled learning about Dr. King’s work as a child in Oakland and described the profound effect his life and death had on her family and many others. “I was 14 years old when Dr. King was taken from us, and I remember that loss like it was yesterday,” she said.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School in Oakland has long honored Dr. King’s legacy. In September 2025, the school hosted an event with Martin Luther King III, Arndrea King, Stephen Curry, Ayesha Curry, and their Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, alongside local leaders including Mayor Barbara Lee and Superintendent Saddler herself.
During the visit, Martin Luther King III participated in painting and playground preparation at the school before posing for photos next to a mural of his father with other attendees.
Quoting Dr. King’s words on social change—“Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle”—Saddler emphasized the ongoing need to address issues such as conflict, racism, sexism, and hatred both locally and globally.
She also highlighted another quote from Dr. King: “Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness.” Saddler encouraged students, staff, and community members to support one another and focus on collective well-being rather than individual interests.
Stressing education’s role as an equalizer in society, she stated that dedication to learning prepares students for future opportunities: “Anyone can take advantage of a great education and turn it into a great career, an impactful life, and lasting change for them and those around them.”
Dr. Saddler cited another statement from Dr. King: “Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.”
As part of honoring Dr. King’s memory this year, OUSD encourages participation in service projects across Oakland during Monday’s holiday observance on January 19th—not as a day off but as a day dedicated to community service.
