Fort Smith Students Get Taste of Civil Service

About 50 students from Orr Elementary School in Fort Smith got some first-hand experience with civics and public service Thursday morning.

The students have spent the last month learning about the three branches of federal government, the responsibilities of public officials and the importance of voting.

“Both of our classes – my partner teacher Mrs. Delude and I – are working together to hold a mock campaign where we have our classes working as two separate caucuses and our students are running for class president against one another,” said Laura Strassle, fourth grade teacher at Orr Elementary.

The students visited city offices to talk with city leaders and visit locations that impact their families.

After visiting city offices, the students were schedule to visit the Fort Smith Fire Department’s Station #1 and wrap up the tour at the P Street Wastewater Treatment Facility.

Teacher Brandy Delude said she’s confident that the lessons the students learned in the classroom will “come alive” during the group’s outing.

“As teachers, this is the outcome we strive for – making the learning come alive so that it lasts a lifetime.”