Senior Civics Capstone class engages with state leaders and witnesses legislative process, sparking aspirations for future public service careers

Mr. Conor Quinn and Mrs. Kerry Saati’s Senior Civics Capstone class embarked on a field trip to the New York State Capitol in Albany, where they gained valuable insights into the workings of New York’s government. This enriching experience not only allowed students to observe legislative processes firsthand but also provided them with the opportunity to interact directly with state legislators.

A significant highlight was meeting their state assemblyman, Angelo Santabarbara, who enthusiastically addressed their questions about democratic processes and encouraged them to actively participate in civic life at the local level. His thoughtful insights set off a lively discussion among the students, motivating them to think critically about their roles in democracy.

Following their meeting with Assemblyman Santabarbara, the students attended an Energy Committee Hearing to better understand how legislation is crafted. This experience broadened their comprehension of the legislative process and the teamwork involved in it. This proved to be more than just an educational outing; it served as a gateway to potential career opportunities in government.

A standout moment occurred when civics student Finn Farnan, inspired by his interaction with Assemblyman Santabarbara, took the initiative to secure an internship with the Assembly in the coming weeks. This opportunity exemplifies the impact of how such experiences can influence students’ futures, motivating them to pursue careers in civic engagement and public policy. The field trip was a catalyst for both education and inspiration, encouraging students to envision their roles in shaping the future of their communities.

Seal of Civic Readiness 

Approximately 20 students from the class of 2025 will be Scotia-Glenville’s inaugural cohort to graduate with the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness. This seal formally recognizes a student’s high level of proficiency in civic knowledge, skills, mindset, and experiences. Mr. Quinn and Mrs. Saati developed the Senior Civics Capstone course as part of Scotia-Glenville’s requirements for obtaining the seal.

Another initiative toward earning their seal involves their impressive collaborative efforts in organizing a large-scale Job Fair & Career Exploration event for their peers this Thursday, Jan. 16, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in their high school gym. More than 20 local businesses and organizations will be present, and the students have taken charge of planning the event.

“The momentum these students have is truly remarkable,” said Superintendent Susan Swartz. “They have poured their hearts and souls into every detail so their fellow classmates can network with industry professionals, explore potential career paths, and gain insights into the job market. They are demonstrating that bright futures are being shaped right before our eyes,” she said.