Today, more than 400 2nd graders from Phenix City Schools filled the theatre of South Girard School. After finishing 10 weeks in the Super Citizen Program, they are gathered to celebrate their accomplishments and honor local heroes from the stage.
“This community is kind of tough for them, says coach Zachery Berklin who was honored today. “They see things they shouldn’t see. They think if they see it, it’s the right way to act. That’s when I come in, and other teachers in the community, to show them it’s not right and here’s the right path you need to get on.”
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” DVD 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 and passionate community sponsors. 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 >
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These Phenix City second graders are excited to graduate as Super Citizens!
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Smiling faces of future Super Citizens!
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Khrystian, Armani, Ivory, and Jamaurie lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
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Each second-grade class honored heroes they had chosen.
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Quincy, Christopher, and Camron honored Vietnam veteran Mr. Edward Spidle as Helping Hands Hero.
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James Dunkle, retired military, was honored as Helping Hands Hero by Ammahra.
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Terrance honored teacher Jimmy Lee as Helping Hands Hero.
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Teacher Carrie Miller was honored as Helping Hands Hero by Zyon and Katoria.
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Marquayveon and Jonah honored Coach Zachery Berklin as Helping Hands Hero.
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XyKria and Alexander honored teacher Zandra Davis as Helping Hands Hero. Special Education educator Ms. Reba accepted on her behalf.
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Thank you, sponsors!
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Taking the Helping Hands Pledge.
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Second-graders take the Helping Hands Pledge.
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Student volunteers lead the Next Great American Tour Anthem.
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Celebrating graduation in song!
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Only you can keep the “U” in the U.S.A.!
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Our Helping Hands Heroes and the students who honored them.