City Hall School celebrates 10,000 students
Calgary, Alberta – Today City Hall School celebrated the 10,000 students who have taken part in the program since its inception in January 2000.
The City Hall School program allows teachers to move their classrooms to the Municipal Building for a week-long, custom designed learning experience where students meet with elected officials and work alongside City of Calgary employees.
“Students get an inside look at how The City works and how they can be involved in local government,” says Jody Danchuk, City Hall School Coordinator. “With this latest class we’ve now had over 10,000 students come through our classroom and have left with a better understanding of the importance of civic engagement and being involved in their communities.”
To celebrate this milestone, all the students in the current City Hall School class have received a certificate recognizing them as members of this landmark class of the 10,000th student. The current class is made up of students in Grades 3 and 4 from Escuela Canyon Meadow School.
Eight-year-old Milan, who took part in today’s event, said, “I think it’s good because people can learn about art, Calgary and history. They can see the old city hall, learn about how the Mayor and Council make decisions, and can learn about leadership.”
City Hall School is part of the Campus Calgary/Open Minds program and is one of 10 different locations for teachers and students for their week-long learning beyond the walls of a classroom. Each year teachers submit proposals for a chance to take part at the location of their choice. The program is open to Grades 3 to 12.
“We are grateful for the experiences that The City of Calgary facilitates through City Hall School,” says Trish Savill, Education Coordinator Campus Calgary program. “As students grapple with current issues they gain confidence as learners and recognize that they can make a positive difference.”
Cecilia Gutiérrez, a teacher with Escuela Canyon Meadows School added that she appreciates how City Hall School teaches students to be great citizens who contribute to their communities.
“This is an amazing program. The teachers here support us so much,” says Gutiérrez. “Students know how blessed we are to live here. They understand the chances and opportunities we have in this city.”
City Hall School is a partnership between The City of Calgary’s Community & Neighbourhood Services and Campus Calgary/Open Minds. For more information on City Hall School visit calgary.ca.