Today, 2nd graders from Lakewood Primary, Meadowlane Elementary, Phenix City Elementary, Ridgecrest Elementary, Westview Elementary, & Sherwood Elementary Schools filled the Central High School Auditorium. After finishing 10 weeks in the Hands on Liberty Program, they are gathered to celebrate their accomplishments and honor local heroes from the stage.
Thanks to Mr. Palmer and his very hands-on teaching, these students have begun learning about their important roles in America’s future. The “Hands on Liberty” series and accompanying activities and lesson plans teach crucial lessons in civics, character, financial literacy and social studies to a tech-centric generation. And in the closing piece of the program, Helping Hands, students are applying those crucial lessons in the real world.
Students chose heroes who embodied the traits of amazing citizens and read essays from stage before presenting them with Liberty Pins. They learned that “when you honor a hero, you become a hero!”
See heroes honored and a glimpse of the exciting event in the gallery below!
Today’s event and the donation of Super Citizen teaching kits was made possible by the Russell County Community Alliance. With their help, we are teaching, inspiring and empowering our Next Great Americans.
Were you at the event? See the photo gallery below to find yourself, to revisit the magic or watch it unfold for the first time >
- Showing off their Helping Hands Graduation Certificate!
- Keelin, A’Nya, Naomi, Seemas, Terri, and Ryker lead everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
- Jakaleb chose Jacquelyn Jewett as his Helping Hands Hero, recognizing the positive impact she has made.
- Lykian honored Ms. Feghali as his Helping Hands Hero, celebrating the encouragement and support she provides.
- For Gracelyn, the Helping Hands Hero recognition went to April Sawyer, celebrating her love and guidance.
- Christian selected Linda Thomas as his Helping Hands Hero, acknowledging the difference she makes each day.
- Chance recognized Kimberly Wiggins as his Helping Hands Hero, honoring her dedication and care.
- Jayla chose to celebrate Dr. Kirk as her Helping Hands Hero, recognizing his leadership and influence.
- Diamond and Kennedi proudly selected Nurse Krista Nix as their Helping Hands Hero, honoring the care and compassion she shows to students. Ms. Darby accepted the award on her behalf.
- Damian and Kamaria recognized Rachel Jackson as their Helping Hands Hero, celebrating the encouragement and support she provides.
- Logan honored Ms. Adrian Winslow as his Helping Hands Hero, acknowledging the positive impact she has on students. Ms. Gretta Skaggs accepted the award on her behalf.
- The students filled the room with their voices as they sang “YOU in the USA.”
- Super Citizens lead everyone in our tour anthem.
- Waving their flags in song and celebration!
- These students are excited to sing along to our tour anthem!
- Only YOU can keep the “U” in the U.S.A.!
- “Freedom! Liberty! It starts with you and me!”
- We were honored to spend the morning celebrating with our heroes, students, donors, and special guests. Thank you to Veatrice Thomas from central office for celebrating with us!

















