EMPOWERING TOMORROW : FOSTERING PRODUCTIVE CITIZENSHIP
EMPOWERING TOMORROW : FOSTERING PRODUCTIVE CITIZENSHIP
CHILDREN AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Teaching children about citizenship helps to shape their understanding of society , responsibility , and their role in a community . Franklin Regional seeks to support students in seven core areas as they develop and mature :
Understanding Rights and Responsibilities :
Citizenship education helps children understand their rights as individuals and as members of a community . It also emphasizes the importance of respecting the rights of others .
It teaches them about the responsibilities that come with citizenship , such as obeying laws , participating in civic activities , and contributing to the common good . Promoting Civic Participation :
Citizenship education encourages active participation in civic life . Children learn about the democratic process , the importance of voting , and ways to engage in community service .
It instills a sense of civic duty and encourages children to be informed , responsible , and engaged citizens as they grow older . Building a Sense of Belonging :
Understanding citizenship helps children develop a sense of belonging and identity within their community , city , country , and the broader global context . It fosters a sense of connection to others and a recognition of shared values , which can contribute to social cohesion . Cultivating Social Skills :
Citizenship education often involves teaching social skills such as communication , cooperation , and empathy . These skills are crucial for effective collaboration within a community .
Learning to work with others and understanding different perspectives contribute to the development of a well-rounded individual . Developing Critical Thinking :
Citizenship education encourages critical thinking skills . Children learn to analyze information , form their own opinions , and engage in constructive dialogue about societal issues .
This ability to think critically is essential for making informed decisions and actively participating in a democratic society . Fostering Ethical Behavior :
Citizenship education often includes discussions about ethical behavior and moral values . It helps children develop a strong ethical foundation , making them more likely to make positive contributions to society . Promoting Long-Term Civic Engagement :
Early exposure to citizenship concepts lays the groundwork for a lifetime of civic engagement . Children who understand the importance of being active citizens are more likely to continue participating in civic activities as adults .
Teaching children about citizenship is crucial for shaping responsible , informed , and engaged individuals who contribute positively to their communities and society at large .
FR Senior High Rotary Interact students read “ Andy & Elmer Apple Dumpling Adventure Book ” to third-grade students in their classrooms . Additionally , they explored the “ Four-Way Test ” that Rotarians use as a guide for building and maintaining both professional and personal relationships : Of the things we think , say , or do : 1 . Is it the TRUTH ? 2 . Is it FAIR to all concerned ? 3 . Will it build GOOD WILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS ? 4 . Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned ? ( Left to Right ) Nikhil Chekuru , Vedanth Reddyvari , Rotarian Tony Pauly , Rotarian Ann Pauly , Adarsh Medipalli , Tanisha Narayani , Lily McKenna , Jadyn Tyscarzk , Evangeline Cheyne , Nathan Snyder , Olivia Barefoot , Lucy Zheng , Katelynn Hyndman
The FR Elementary PTO , a collaboration of both the Primary and Intermediate Schools , continued the tradition of engaging in the Turkey Cup Challenge to benefit the Westmoreland County Food Bank
The two schools combined collected $ 11,922.96 . Funds will be used by the food bank to assist and support families in our local community and across Westmoreland County .
Third-grade students pose with representatives from the Westmoreland County Food Bank .
In recent years , FR students involved in the FRHS Rotary Interact Club , National Honor Society , and Girls ’ Soccer have served as Salvation Army Bell Ringers . This year , 24 student volunteers donated their time to the Salvation Army totaling 47.5 hours of community service just for the holiday .
Left to Right : Grace Huang and Hannah Ilgenfritz , serve as Salvation Army bell ringers at Dick ’ s Diner in Murrysville .
The 20th anniversary of our FRSH Holiday Telethon was held on December 22 , 2023 . Over the years , the district has raised over 163,000 for local and regional charities in addition to relief efforts in Mississippi ( Hurricane Katrina ) and Florida ( Hurricane Michael ). This year , the selected charity is Mini-Thon in connection with Penn State to fight childhood cancer . Our FR Mini- Thon student group is organizing the fundraising piece ( the club has its own fundraising goal of $ 20,000 for Mini Thon this year and the telethon funds raised will be part of that annual goal ). Carrie Jones is the sponsor for that student club . Becky Magness continues to chair the telethon which had its debut back in 2004 . ranklin Regional
FRANKLIN REGIONAL NEWS
MURRYSVILLE ❘ WINTER 2024 29