By JESSA PEASE / Staff Writer

PELHAM— Months ago, students at Valley Intermediate School were visited by Libby Liberty, who introduced the students to the Super Citizen 10-week educational program.

The Liberty Learning Foundation visited a second time Nov. 10 to end the 10-week program, to declare the students super citizens and to honor heroes in the Pelham community.

“This project-based learning activity brings the project full circle,” said Kristen Sharp with the foundation. “Students are engaged and become excited as they participate in lessons in character, financial literacy, civics and career readiness.”

Each fifth grade class was taught to recognize individuals who go above and beyond their responsibilities. The students were exposed to lessons in team building, goal setting, money management, community service, campaigning strategies, public speaking and civic responsibility.

Each of the fifth grade classes formed a torch team and nominated individuals who made an impact in their lives. Each of those heroes was honored at the ceremony Nov. 10 and given a replica of the Statue of Liberty.

“The Super Citizen program talks about what it takes for these students to become a super citizen,” Sharp said. “One of the best ways to learn these lessons is by learning about and honoring the people in our lives, these real life American heroes, that they know.”

Maggie Hamric’s class selected Pelham Fire Chief Danny Ray, noting his bravery and service to the community and the lives he has saved in his position. Holly Laney’s class selected Officer Tkacik, stating that the officer is always there to make them laugh and keep them safe.

Many of the faces within the intermediate school were selected, including Coach Nick Tucker, lunchroom helper Nicole Smith, bus driver Amy Lisenba and one of the custodians Mike Milstead.

Shelly Power’s class selected Pelham Mayor Gary Waters, citing his years of service with the Army, National Guard, as fire chief and as mayor.

Each of the students expressed why they selected the individual, discussing the characteristics that make them heroes.

Finally, the fifth grade teachers announced their hero, Don Green with the Pelham Fire Department. They quoted Green, summing up the reason he was chosen: “The best part of this job, every so often, you actually feel you made a difference. I don’t think there’s another job where you can feel that.”

Green has also dedicated many hours to Valley Intermediate School, which also helped the teachers choose him as their super citizen.