NEWS

A few months ago, Councilman Robert Jackson took time out of his busy day to visit our students at MS 296. He shared stories about his childhood in Harlem and what it’s like to be a Councilman for New York City. It was such a great opportunity for our students to have the chance to converse with someone who came from a similar background and through hard work and persistence, has achieved so much success. At the end of their visit, Councilman Jackson promised the students that they could visit him at City Hall—and Councilman Jackson knows how to keep his word.

On May 28, nine sixth, seventh and eighth graders visited Councilman Jackson’s office downtown. They shared a lunch of pizza, fruit and water—but “not soda!” as the Councilman kept pointing out in reference to Mayor Bloomberg’s recent proposal to ban sugary beverages. After lunch, Councilman Jackson walked the students over to City Hall where he led them on a private tour. Students were even invited to sit in the Speaker Quinn’s chair to see what a future in politics might feel like.

The Councilman took time to introduce Partnership with Children to other members of the council and stress our organization’s critical role in helping to support the social needs of students and turn around NYC public schools. Our students were delighted to meet members including Speaker Christine Quinn and Chancellor Dennis Walcott. Thanks to Councilman Jackson for such an amazing and memorable experience!

Be sure to check out photos of MS 296’s visit to City Hall.