Celtics’ Players Encourage Rogers Middle School Students to Stay in School

Ray Allen, Tony Allen and Shelden Williams understand Celtics pride. But on Tuesday, they explained that PRIDE has a much more important meaning to students at the Rogers Middle School in Hyde Park.

The three Celtics players delivered an important message to students using the acronym PRIDE — P for Perseverance, R for Respect, I for Integrity, D for Decisions and E for Education.

Celtics guard Ray Allen stressed the importance of education.

"Taking pride in education is very important for students," Ray Allen explained. "By making the right decisions and trying their best in the classroom, these children can accomplish anything."

Celtics players will visit schools at assemblies throughout the academic year, helping to motivate students to work hard and stay in school. Top students will be honored for academic achievement and perfect attendance at the end of the year.

The Celtics have been involved in the Stay in School program for 19 years.