Above: Eisa K., Middle School Social Studies Teacher Kaitlyn Willesen, and Adler M.

Middle School students Adler M. and Eisa K. represented the Academy at the Pennsylvania State National Civics Bee competition this summer after placing among the top three students at the Greater Pittsburgh regional competition in May. 

At states, Adler placed second, and Eisa placed third among top middle school students from across Pennsylvania. Students tested their knowledge of history and citizenship and presented proposals addressing real-world issues in their communities. Adler focused on increasing civic engagement among younger students, proposing a partnership with Carnegie Library to develop civics programming for middle schoolers. Eisa addressed veteran well-being in Western Pennsylvania, proposing opportunities for veterans to foster rescue dogs to build connection and purpose. 

Middle School Social Studies Teacher Kaitlyn Willesen guided the students throughout the competition process.

“What has made this experience especially meaningful is watching my students grow throughout the process,” Willesen said. “I have seen students become more confident in sharing their ideas, more curious about the issues affecting their communities, and more willing to see themselves as people who can make a difference.”

Willesen plans to build on their experience by mentoring a student group during clubs this school year. Seventh grader Genevieve K., who also competed in the regional level last spring, has already begun preparing for next year’s competition.