For Immediate Release
November 12, 2025

Contact:
Marci McFadden, Chief of Communications831-706-6971

MPUSD Seaside Community Schools Unite for 2025 Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day
Students, families, and staff honor civil rights leader Ruby Bridges and take collective steps toward a future rooted in kindness, courage, and belonging

Seaside, CA - Monterey Peninsula Unified School District students, families, teachers, and staff from all Seaside community schools will come together on Friday, November 14, 2025, to participate in Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, a nationwide demonstration of unity, reflection, and commitment to equity and kindness.

The walk will begin at 7:15 a.m. at Highland Otis Park, located at the corner of Mendocino Street and Mingo Avenue. From there, schools will gather for a rally before walking together to their respective Seaside campuses. The event is part of MPUSD’s community schools initiative, which fosters strong partnerships between families, schools, and the broader community.

Event Details

Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day - Raffle and Rally
Friday, November 14, 2025
7:15 a.m. - Highland Otis Park
Corner of Mendocino St. and Mingo Ave., Seaside

Honoring Ruby Bridges’ Historic Walk and Continuing Her Legacy

The event commemorates Ruby Bridges’ courageous walk to school on November 14, 1960, when she became one of the first Black children to integrate an all-White elementary school in New Orleans. Her bravery continues to spark conversations about justice, inclusion, and treating others with dignity.

Participating schools have spent the weeks leading up to the event teaching students about Ruby’s story and exploring themes of courage, respect, and standing up against racism and bullying.

“Ruby Bridges challenges us to lead with kindness and courage,” said Katie Barthelow, Community Schools Coordinator, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School of the Arts. “By walking together, our students learn that they, too, have the power to create a better future.”

Rally, Raffle, and Community Spirit

This year’s event features a strong community component, including:

• A raffle featuring 20 scooters, skateboards, a smart watch, and more
• Breakfast treats for participating students
• A free drawstring backpack and flag for the first 100 walkers

The event is made possible through the generosity of local partners, including Paris Bakery, Taqueria Tamales Manjarrez, Lupita’s, Transportation Agency for Monterey County, Butter House, Sweet Dreams Delight, and Red’s Donuts.

Community Schools Leading the Way

Participating Seaside Community Schools include:

• Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School of the Arts
• Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula
• Ord Terrace Elementary School
• Seaside Middle School (student leaders are supporting this effort)
• Seaside High School (student leaders are supporting this effort)
• Del Rey Woods Elementary School (is also participating, but due to proximity their walk will begin at Oldemeyer Center)

The Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day aligns with the core values of MPUSD’s community schools strategy, which brings together academics, health supports, family partnerships, and community resources to ensure every student thrives.

“Community schools are about connection, belonging, and shared purpose,” said Justin Stokes, Community Schools Coordinator, Seaside Middle School. “Walking together in honor of Ruby Bridges reinforces that we are united in creating safe, welcoming, and just schools for every child.”

All MPUSD families are encouraged to participate and celebrate Ruby Bridges’ enduring legacy.

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