Upcoming MLK Day Events & Opportunities

Poly will host a Middle School MLK Assembly on Monday, January 12, during Flex. Organized by Dr. Farrar, Paul Johnson, Megan Foley, and Renée Larios, the assembly will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and invite students to explore themes of justice, service, and community engagement.

Beyond campus, the Pasadena MLK Community Coalition will hold its annual MLK Day Celebration on Monday, January 19, at John Muir High School. This community event is free and open to the public, bringing together schools, families, and local organizations to commemorate Dr. King’s enduring impact.

2026 MLK Essay & Art/Poster Contest
For the 35th year, the Martin Luther King Community Coalition invites students from Pasadena, Altadena, Sierra Madre, La Cañada, and surrounding communities to take part in the annual MLK Essay and Art/Poster Contest. Supported by PUSD, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, the City of Pasadena, and multiple charter and private schools, the contest encourages students to deepen their understanding of Dr. King’s work while strengthening their writing, creativity, and character.

Full contest and event details are available here.

“Resilience and Renewal: Social Justice, Equality, and Community Empowerment”
The theme invites students to reflect on Dr. King’s vision as expressed in his “I Have a Dream” speech and his writings in Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community? Participants are encouraged to consider today’s societal challenges—such as wildfires, immigration, threats to democracy, and economic inequality—and explore how resilience, courage, and collective action can bring meaningful change.

As the MLK Coalition notes, this theme honors Dr. King’s lifelong commitment to nonviolent action in pursuit of justice and human dignity. Submissions should show how individuals and communities can “recover quickly from difficulties” and work toward a more just and empowered society.

Contest Details

Poly encourages all eligible students to participate in this meaningful opportunity to honor Dr. King’s legacy through reflection, creativity, and advocacy.