Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” Gillispie’s second graders answered that question and celebrated MLK’s Day of Service by spending the morning at Ellen Browning Scripps Park in La Jolla where they picked up over 500 pieces of waste.
This service project wasn’t just about picking up trash—it was an interdisciplinary learning experience that blended design thinking, sustainability education, and civic engagement. Prior to the field trip, students collaborated in Design class to create their own safety vests, learning about the importance of visibility and protection in real-world work environments. Wearing their custom vests, they put their designs to the test while working in the park.
Parent volunteers played an active role, helping students tally and categorize the types of trash they collected. This data collection led to meaningful classroom discussions on sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the impact of waste on our communities.
Our second graders’ dedication and enthusiasm exemplify the spirit of Dr. King’s message—that small acts of kindness and service can create a ripple effect of positive change.
A huge thank you to our parent volunteers, and bravo to our second graders for making a difference!
Discover how Gillispie students embrace the spirit of giving back.
