In an educational experience that normally features hundreds of students gathered to cheer, sing and celebrate together, this year’s Super Citizen Kickoff for Colbert County 2nd Graders is happening a little differently due to COVID-19. A new video-led “virtual kickoff” is delivering engagement and enthusiasm to help schools teach civics, character, history, financial literacy and careers whether students watch inside smaller classrooms or in the safety of their own homes.
Libby Liberty™, the Statue of Liberty character who normally arrives in auditoriums to bring history to life on stage, now jumps off the screen to introduce students to the 10-week program they’re beginning. Students (and parents) hear from the Liberty Learning Foundation Education Team, they are introduced to the COMMUNITY of sponsors who care enough to keep the program free of charge, and they are guided on a journey that reminds them why their roles as Super Citizens are so important in America’s future.
Students are also being introduced to the man who will give them a “hand” with lessons back in their classrooms. As Libby winds down, she hands the screen over to Mr. Palmer, a brash and brilliant hand-character who leads students in DVD-based lessons in civics, character, financial literacy and our Great American Story.
The Super Citizen experience includes today’s kickoff event, immersive learning and community service projects and will culminate with a graduation celebration that encourages students to honor everyday heroes (“Helping Hands heroes” in their communities. They will learn that “when you honor a hero, you become a hero.”
These crucial lessons are being taught thanks to funding from sponsors who understand that these lessons must be taught despite school budget cuts–and especially in these times where civic duty, voting, and character issues are so important. Students finished the virtual event singing along to the program’s signature song, “YOU in the U.S.A.”
Did you attend the event? Will you help sustain this all-American educational movement? Click here to give >
If schools and students were able to contribute photos from their virtual event, see them in the gallery below. And stay tuned for stories and photos from program Celebration and “Helping Hands” heroes in the coming months!
Browse photos in the gallery below >
- Ms. Pless’ class at Hatton Elementary grab a selfie with LIbby!
- Leighton students in Ms. Woodruff’s class Selfie with Libby!
- students at Hatton Elementary in Ms. Stooksberry class pose for a Selfie with Libby!
- Leighton students in Ms. Woodruff’s class sing our tour anthem!
- Leighton student in Ms. Woodruff’s class showing off his crown!
- Colbert Heights students in Ms. McCormack’s class are ready to meet Libby!
- New Bethel students in Ms. Gregory’s Group A Selfie with Libby!
- Ms. McCormack’s class Selfie with Libby!
- Ms. Gregory’s from New Bethel Group B Selfie with Libby!
- Thank you to our amazing sponsors!
- Libby gets help from the students to coax Mr. Palmer to join them at their virtual kickoff!
- Libby encourages the students to close their eyes and imagine the journey of becoming Super Citizens!
- Ellis Island is right next to Liberty Island, which is where Libby lives.
- Libby shows off her true measurments!
- Libby is excited to share about the 2 things she holds in her hands on her pedestal!