7th Graders Advocate for Equity and Sustainability in Harrisonburg

In a dynamic and innovative educational initiative, seventh-grade students have embarked on a project-based learning adventure centered around the essential question: “How can we create an equitable, sustainable, and thriving society?” Over the course of two weeks, these students have engaged in research, interacted with local leaders such as Mayor Deanna R. Reed, Shannon Dycus, Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at Eastern Mennonite University, and Amanda Presgraves of the Shenandoah Bike Coalition, while collaborating with their peers to develop a cohesive plan.

Recognizing a significant community need, the students have set out to create projects aimed at fostering equity in Harrisonburg. Their focus encompasses the practicality and sustainability of their proposed solutions, including cost considerations and funding strategies. Each project is crafted with intention, as they work to understand the societal dynamics at play within their community.

The student groups have unleashed their creativity and problem-solving abilities through a variety of projects across multiple sectors:

• Education: Proposing new bus routes to enhance access to after-school activities
• Economy: Establishing a downtown outreach center to support unhoused individuals.
  

  Economy group suggests outreach center

• Government: Advocating for the construction of an affordable housing complex.
• Infrastructure: Developing biking and walking paths to connect Harrisonburg’s Northeast neighborhood to the downtown area.
• Neighborhoods: Installing signs and historical markers along the proposed path in the Northeast neighborhood to highlight its rich heritage.
• Recreation: Building a new public swimming pool near Purcell Park.
• Culture: Creating a cultural museum downtown to celebrate and honor the city’s diversity.

Through these initiatives, the seventh-grade students are showcasing their research and critical thinking skills while gaining an understanding of the importance of fostering an inclusive and sustainable society. By actively engaging with real-world challenges and proposing actionable solutions, these young learners are paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future for Harrisonburg and beyond.