Two local schools were recently selected as official Alabama Bicentennial School by Gov. Kay Ivey, according to an Aug. 3 announcement. The Alabama Bicentennial Schools Initiative serves as a way for schools to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Alabama’s foundation, according to a press release from Ivey’s office.
Both Elmore County High School and Wetumpka Middle School were chosen along with 200 other schools from around the state. All Alabama Bicentennial Schools will receive $2,000 grants that will go toward the implementation of community service projects.
The 400 schools that applied sent in proposals for projects intended to connect students to the community. Projects were chosen by committees of local educators, community leaders and private citizens.
“One of the core objectives of the bicentennial is to get Alabamians thinking about what makes our state special, and what they want it to be,” Bicentennial Commission Education Committee co-chair Steve Murray said. “The terrific projects developed by the Alabama Bicentennial Schools will create opportunities for students to learn about the importance of community, and to discover the ability they have to shape the future of their corner of the state.”
Ivey said she was proud to see such a large response to the program and to see so many schools being honored. “The Alabama Bicentennial celebration is about bringing communities together and getting all of our citizens involved,” Ivey said. “The schools being honored are a great representation of that goal.”
According to ECHS and WMS representatives, projects will be announced soon.
Elmore County Public Schools Superintendent Richard Dennis said he was excited and proud for both schools, and plans to honor them at the next Board of Education meeting on Aug. 20.
“It’s great recognition for our schools,” Dennis said.