On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the School District of Lancaster joined community members, educators, and leaders at the 38th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast, hosted by the Crispus Attucks Community Center at Millersville University. The annual gathering honored Dr. King’s legacy not only through reflection, but through the people and stories that continue to carry his message forward.
For nearly four decades, the breakfast has served as a cornerstone event in Lancaster County, bringing people together each year to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and consider how his call for justice, compassion, and collective responsibility continues to shape our community.
A central moment of the program was the presentation of the Essence of Humanity Award, made possible by the High Foundation. The award recognizes individuals who go beyond the expectations of their work to demonstrate courage, compassion, and care, offering inspiration through their daily actions and service to others.
This year, the School District of Lancaster proudly celebrated Aaron Swinton, principal of Reynolds Middle School, as a recipient of the Essence of Humanity Award. A lifelong Lancaster resident and district graduate, Swinton’s leadership is rooted in relationships and a belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. Known for his hands-on approach, he engages with students and families through home visits, daily check-ins, and a visible presence at school events. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he continued that commitment by visiting students weekly to support remote learning and connection.
Swinton’s work reflects the spirit of the award. His leadership centers dignity, prioritizes student well-being, and builds trust across the school community. Through mentorship and service, he has made a lasting impact on generations of students and families.
The breakfast also uplifted student voice through the celebration of Layla’G Shuler, a fifth-grade student at Wharton Elementary School and one of this year’s MLK essay winners. Layla’G’s essay focused on fairness and the power of small actions. She wrote about standing up for others, creating welcoming spaces in schools and communities, and how simple acts of care can change someone’s day.
Her writing offered a thoughtful reflection on Dr. King’s belief that change often begins with individual choices. Through examples drawn from her own experiences, Layla’G highlighted how kindness can spread within a school community and how fairness and respect help everyone feel safe and valued. Her words reminded those in attendance that young people are not only learning about Dr. King’s legacy, but actively shaping it through their actions and voices.
Together, these recognitions captured the heart of the morning. From experienced leaders who live out Dr. King’s values through service, to students who are already shaping their voices with purpose, the program highlighted how humanity, justice, and care are practiced across generations.
The School District of Lancaster is grateful to stand alongside community partners in honoring this work and celebrating those who continue to move Dr. King’s legacy forward in meaningful ways.
