Lincoln Middle School recently celebrated its 6th annual Lion PRIDE Day, bringing students and staff together for a full day centered on promoting respect, inclusion, diversity, and equity.
Previously known as Race Against Racism Day, the annual tradition has grown into a schoolwide celebration of what it means to be part of the Lincoln community. Throughout the day, students moved through activities, games, guest presentations, classroom lessons, and opportunities for reflection, all designed to help students think more deeply about how they show care for themselves, one another, and their school.
Lion PRIDE Day gave students a chance to experience those values in action. Across the building and outside on the field, students stayed with their homerooms as they participated in activities that encouraged teamwork and connection. The day balanced the energy of field day with the purpose of learning, reminding students that PRIDE is something that shows up in the way students listen, include others, solve problems, and build community.
The celebration also welcomed special guests, including former professional soccer player Russell Canouse, who spoke with students during auditorium activities. Performers from Ripple Hub also joined the day, adding another layer of creativity and community connection to the celebration.
Classroom activities remained a core part of the experience, giving students space to engage in discussion and critical thinking. These lessons helped connect the larger celebration back to the everyday choices students make in school, from how they speak to one another to how they respond when someone’s experience is different from their own.
This year, Lincoln also added mindful reset spaces for students who needed a quieter place during the day. An outdoor space under the trees offered bubbles and chalk, while an indoor space outside the auditorium gave students access to mindful coloring and creativity. The addition reflected the intention and planning behind the event, recognizing that belonging also means making room for students’ different needs.
Lion PRIDE Day was made possible through the work of Lincoln staff, volunteers, community partners, and those who donated time and supplies. Their support helped create a day that was grounded in Lincoln’s commitment to helping every student feel seen, supported, and included.
At Lincoln Middle School, PRIDE is a reminder of the school community students and staff continue to build together.