At Reynolds Middle School, civics education is coming alive in the classroom thanks to the work of eighth grade social studies teachers Lawrence Jeter and Joseph Strother. This fall, they launched a civics unit designed not only to teach the mechanics of government but also to inspire students to see themselves as part of the democratic process.
What sets their approach apart is how they bridge the gap between textbook learning and real-world leadership. Rather than only studying government structures in theory, students are meeting the individuals who serve in those roles. So far, students have had the privilege of hearing from three guests: Lancaster County Judge John Bender, State Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El, and Lancaster City Mayor Danene Sorace. Each offered not only a window into their profession, but also stories of personal journey, challenges, and motivation to serve.Each visit gives students the chance to hear personal stories, learn about the challenges of leadership, and ask their own questions about justice, fairness, and civic responsibility.
Judge Bender helped students understand the vital role of the judiciary and the responsibility of ensuring fairness under the law. He described how courts work, how cases are decided, and the importance of impartiality in protecting rights. Students asked thoughtful questions about justice, accountability, and how judges make difficult decisions that affect people’s lives.
Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El spoke about his path to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and the significance of representation in government. He encouraged students to see themselves as future changemakers and reminded them that democracy works best when every voice is heard. His visit highlighted the importance of civic participation at every level, from voting to community advocacy.
Lancaster City Mayor Danene Sorace visited Reynolds to talk about the role of local government and her responsibilities as mayor. She emphasized the connection between city decisions and everyday life, from community development to public safety to neighborhood services. Mayor Sorace also shared her personal path into public office, helping students understand that civic leaders come from many different backgrounds but share a commitment to service. Students asked questions ranging from what inspired her to run for office to how young people can begin to make a difference in their own communities.
For Reynolds students, these experiences go beyond hearing from guest speakers. They are lessons in civic engagement, moments when the abstract ideas of democracy, government, and leadership take on a human face. Meeting leaders like Rep. Izzy, Judge Bender, and Mayor Sorace shows students that government is not an unreachable system but a network of people who work on behalf of their community.
Mr. Jeter and Mr. Strother’s efforts reflect a larger goal of preparing students to be informed, thoughtful, and active citizens. By connecting classroom instruction with the lived experiences of civic leaders, they are helping students develop both knowledge and confidence. These conversations encourage students to recognize that their voices matter and that one day they, too, can play a role in shaping the future of their city, county, and country. For more photos, visit us on Facebook.