In an educational experience that normally features hundreds of students gathered to cheer, sing and celebrate together, this year’s Super Citizen Kickoff Montgomery County Public schools 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™ leads a “U! S! A!” chant to coax Mr. Palmer out of hiding to introducing him to students. Both characters will teach students about civics, character, financial literacy, careers and more during the program.

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.”

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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 >