8th grade presents to "Senate" panel

As part of its focus on environmental science, political science, and art, The Ellis School’s 8th grade presented their capstone projects, Reflections on Global Issues, on June 4, 2015. Working in teams, the 8s studied environmental and sociopolitical issues affecting the countries of Afghanistan, Cambodia, Peru, and Sierra Leone.
The students presented a detailed recommendation for funding and diplomatic involvement to a mock Senate Foreign Relations Committee comprised of women leaders in government, community organizing, and education. Each group also created an interactive map, a digital timeline, a poster, and a model for a memorial for each country.

The four teams focused their research this year on factors such as access to basic education, human rights, family planning, and how clean, affordable water influences infectious diseases, basic health and wellness, and the environment.

Serving on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee were Ms. Lauren Byrne, Executive Director of Lawrenceville United and a 2002 graduate of Ellis ; Ms. Betty Cruz, Office of Mayor William Peduto, City of Pittsburgh Manager, and Director of the Welcoming Pittsburgh Initiative; Dr. Yasmin Purohit, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Robert Morris University; and Ms. Erika Strassburger, Chief of Staff, Councilman Dan Gilman's office. The senators shared the following comments after the event:
  • "Serving on the Senate Foreign Relations panel with awesome women, I reviewed incredible projects designed by students working to make positive change in developing countries. I was so impressed by the hearts and minds of the Ellis 8th graders. It was inspiring to be back in the place that encouraged me to ask questions, challenge the status quo, and advocate for the right thing, and to do so in the face of adversity and sexism. I am optimistic about our future knowing that the future will be shaped by these future community leaders.  Thank you, The Ellis School!"- Ms. Lauren Byrne

  • “I was incredibly impressed and inspired after serving on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee at Ellis. This experience awakened me to a corner of Pittsburgh where empowered young women are encouraged to work together--using their individual, distinct, powerful voices--to present thoughtful, results-oriented solutions. Each and every one of these students will one day make real-life decisions that will impact their community. Without a doubt, they will shine. My only lament is that more young women are not able to share in this journey. Since they rocked it and inspired me beyond words, I'd like to challenge the class to pay it forward as they enter their high school years and share their brightness with another corner of our city. Lead the way, changemakers!” -Ms. Betty Cruz

  • “In a social milieu that promotes objectification of young women, I was thrilled to witness young 8th grade students showcasing their intellect, social responsibility, and ability to organize information in such a cogent fashion.  As someone who grew up in a developing nation, the teams' empathic focus on issues they may never have encountered makes me so much more optimistic about the future.  Being invited to The Ellis School made me walk taller for the rest of the day - thank you for the opportunity.”- Dr. Yasmin Purohit

  • “I was honored to spend my morning with the young women of Ellis. I was struck by their mastery of complex and difficult issues, their poise and their enthusiasm for learning. They gave me great hope for the future potential of strong female leaders.”- Ms. Erika Strassburger
The Senate recommended funding the projects at the following levels, some with recommendations to complete additional research and return to request additional funds after pilot programs are completed:
  • Afghanistan: $7.5 million requested, $10 million recommended
  • Cambodia: $100 million requested, $20 million recommended
  • Peru: $96 requested, $40 million recommended
  • Sierra Leone: $50 million requested, $30 million recommended
“Their presentation to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee is the culmination of months of work and an opportunity for the girls to present, learn from others, and share their knowledge,” said Middle School Director Michelle Rust. “Citizenship, integrity, and leadership are among our core values. This project helps us further our mission and helps our girls develop the confidence and competence they need to be community leaders.”

Overseeing the project at Ellis were world language teacher Jean Mercier, science teacher Diane Reckless, math teacher Shannon Rohr, and history teacher Jeri Simon. The Ellis School commends the 8s for their work and thanks the entire Senate Foreign Relations Committee for the expertise and focus they brought to this event.
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