Generation ROC: 4th Grade Students Speak Their Minds to Elected Leaders
Written by Site Hub on June 3, 2025
Fourth graders at Iroquois Middle School in West Irondequoit got a civics lesson like no other, presenting advocacy projects to elected officials including Congressman Joe Morelle and Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. As part of the “Gottfried Crew,” students researched topics ranging from homelessness to animal rescue and racial justice. Their heartfelt presentations, such as honoring a late family member who had cancer or calling for more support for rescue animals, moved the adults in attendance. The event was part of an ongoing effort by teacher Jennifer Gottfried to instill civic engagement through project-based learning. Students not only voiced their concerns—they’ve also organized donation drives and cleanups to support their causes. Leaders were visibly impressed, calling the kids’ clarity and compassion a model for adult advocacy.
Source: Rochester First
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