We strive to create meaningful learning experiences that go beyond the classroom, moments that help students understand themselves, their history, and their capacity to shape the future. This spring, a group of McCaskey High School students did just that, when they took part in a powerful, student-led experience rooted in storytelling and service
Thanks to the initiative of students in the Buddy Glover Public Service Project, named for the late SDoL educator and community advocate, and guided by Dr. Todd Mealy, McCaskey students had the rare opportunity to meet Maryum Ali, eldest daughter of Muhammad Ali. Known for her work as an author, youth advocate, and social worker, Maryum shared her father’s story through a deeply personal lens that connected history to heart.
In a meet-and-greet, Maryum Ali spoke with students about Muhammad Ali’s life outside of the ring, the man who spoke out against injustice, who refused to be silenced, and who used his platform to advocate for equity and peace. She encouraged students to think about their own voices and what it means to live with integrity. The students, many of whom are involved in civic engagement projects of their own, found inspiration in her words, asking thoughtful questions about activism, legacy, and the challenges of living a public life grounded in values.
Prior to this conversation, students visited Fighter’s Heaven, Muhammad Ali’s training camp in Deer Lake, Pennsylvania. Tucked away in the hills of eastern Pennsylvania, the site is both preserved and alive with history. There, Ali trained for some of his most iconic bouts, but he also found spiritual refuge. Walking through the wooden cabins, training ring, and prayer spaces, students encountered a side of Ali not always shown on screen, his quiet moments of faith and reflection.
Students engaged in guided learning sessions, asking questions about the historical context of Ali’s decisions and how the training camp served as a place where Ali could connect with his beliefs and build mental strength. It was a powerful moment of connection between past and present, showing students how personal conviction can drive both private discipline and public impact.
But Maryum Ali’s visit didn’t stop there. She also joined elementary students for a “storytime” event, reading and sharing age-appropriate stories filled with messages of kindness, courage, and identity. Her presence created a sense of wonder and warmth for our youngest learners, who were captivated not just by her storytelling but by the idea that someone connected to a historic figure came to speak directly to them. She reminded these students, many of whom come from diverse backgrounds themselves, that their stories matter, and that they, too, can grow into people who make a difference.
The entire experience was imagined and brought to life by students in the Buddy Glover Public Service Project, who saw a chance to create something meaningful and made it happen. Their collaboration with Dr. Mealy reflects the kind of education we hope to foster across our district, one where young people are trusted to lead, encouraged to explore, and given the tools to shape experiences that connect learning to life.
We are proud of the McCaskey students who organized and participated in this opportunity. We’re grateful to Maryum Ali for sharing her time and wisdom with our school community. And we thank Dr. Mealy for his ongoing commitment to making local history come alive for students through immersive, student-centered programming.
This visit was about students discovering that history isn’t just something to read about, but something they’re part of. It was about stepping into spaces where giants once stood, and realizing that they, too, can leave their mark on the world.
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