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Schools

A Journey to Washington for Lincoln Avenue Fifth Grader

Harrison Bench participated in a six-day program at People-to-People World Leadership Forum.

It may have been his first time away from home, but fifth-grader Harrison Bench enjoyed his Washington, D.C., adventures as a Forum Delegate during the six-day program at the .

Last year, his teacher Mrs. Closs recognized that Harrison had the qualifications of “outstanding scholastic merit, civic involvement, and leadership potential” necessary to be recommended for the Leadership Forum, so it was no surprise when Harrison was accepted into this fall’s program.

Along with other select students from across the country Harrison participated in small-discussion groups and workshops that focused on the decision-making strategies of successful American leaders during times of both national crisis and prosperity. Harrison also met Keynote Speaker General Colin Powell. “It was really fascinating meeting Colin Powell,” Harrison said. “He told us about his life and his dreams and interests. His message was to never give up on your hopes and dreams.”

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In addition, Harrison visited many of the monuments and museums such as the Capitol, the Library of Congress, Arlington National Cemetery and various war memorials, as well as Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown.

“I had a great time on this trip," Harrison added. “It was a great experience. I really enjoyed going around to all of the sites. I learned a lot of historical and interesting facts. I met a lot of new people. There were kids from all over the country. My favorite parts of the trip were meeting General Powell and seeing all of Washington, D.C. I learned how to be independent away from home. I hope to go on another trip with People-to-People again, because it was so fun and interesting.”

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Harrison’s leadership skills kicked into gear during the recent Lincoln Avenue government elections. After winning the position of student-council class senator, Harrison competed with the four other senators for school president. Each candidate campaigned and gave a prepared speech during a political rally comprised of all the third, fourth, and fifth graders. When the ballots were counted, Harrison had been elected president of Lincoln Avenue's Student Government.

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