Special Session

Third grade students hosted Governor Tony Evers, other elected officials, and community leaders this spring.

In their efforts to learn more about government and civic engagement, 3rd grade students went directly to the source: elected officials representing city, state, and federal government offices, including Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, U.S. Senator Ron Johnson, and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers. 

Through a combination of virtual and in-person visits, the students asked questions and learned about what engaged citizenship looks like, why voting matters, and how they can better understand what’s happening in their communities, among other topics. 

The goal of the nonpartisan educational activity was to help students understand the importance of civic participation, community involvement, and informed citizenship, as well as conduct first-person research for their production of podcasts as part of the unit. 

Governor Evers stopped for a visit with 3rd and 4th grade students on Friday, April 24. Both grades asked prepared questions about government and being a governor. Although the officials represented a wide range of roles and political affiliations, they all shared a common message: anyone can create positive change in their community by being a helper. “The kids have been much more engaged and connected to the material,” said 3rd grade teacher and Lower School Social Studies chair Elle Rodriguez. “They’re learning so much more than they would from reading a book.”