Waterville Class of 2024 graduates Abigail Islip and Hanley Poyer are the first two students in the school district to earn the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness.
The seal formally acknowledges that a student has achieved advanced proficiency in civic knowledge, skills, mindset, and experiences.
The students presented their research at the Seal of Civic Readiness Showcase on May 29. The projects were reviewed by the district’s Seal of Civic Readiness Committee, which includes the social studies department (Dave Watrous and Holly McNamara), counseling department (Christa Nigro and Gina Rocci), school administrators (principal Jennifer Dainotto and assistant principal Lindsay Owens), agricultural science teacher Cindy Gallagher and English teacher Elizabeth Brennan.
To earn the Seal of Civic Readiness, students must complete all requirements for a New York State local or Regents diploma and earn a required amount of points in projects, courses and exams as outlined by New York State.
Abigail presented on clean water in Sudan. Hanley presented on utilizing health education and vaccines to compact infectious diseases in Liberia.
Their research that met the requirements for the High School Capstone Project had originally been completed as part of an optional project that was beyond what was required in course curriculum. Both students worked across two semesters with guidance and support from Mrs. Gallagher.
The opportunity for students to offer the achievement of the seal to Waterville students comes as the Waterville Central School District was named a Seal of Civic Readiness Approved School by the New York State Education Department for the 2023-2024 school year.
Waterville students who are interested in earning the seal can contact the Jr./Sr. High School counseling office or social studies teacher Mrs. McNamara.