Middle Schoolers Run Orange Town Hall for a Day
Amity Middle School Social Studies teachers, Jennifer Marganski and Matthew Williams worked in collaboration with Orange town officials and Orange Youth Services to plan Government Day. Students had the opportunity to shadow local government officials in various departments including the First Selectman’s Office, Police, Fire, Parks and Recreation, and the Community Center, to learn more about the day-to-day operations that keep the town running.
The day began with an overview session led by former Town Clerk Pat O’Sullivan. After sharing that he comes from a family dedicated to public service and has decades of experience in both local and state government, Mr. O’Sullivan described government’s purpose as “doing what collectively can’t be done individually.” He also emphasized the interconnection between local departments and the collaboration required to ensure effective operations within the government.
Students concluded their experience by meeting with First Selectman Mr. Jim Zeoli, who encouraged them to reflect on their Government Day experiences, noting that they could have long-lasting impacts. He also presented each student with an official town pin to commemorate the day.
Special thanks to Youth Services and Prevention Coordinator Chantelle Bunnell for her assistance in organizing the Government Day activities.
