By Jamal Thomas
Goodwyn Middle School brought students, veterans and community leaders together for a special Constitution Day celebration designed to teach young people about the freedoms and rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.
The event was created with a simple goal: make Constitution Day meaningful for students. Organizers wanted young people to understand that the rights Americans enjoy are connected to the sacrifices made by generations of military service members.
The program included participation from veterans and members of the community, giving students an opportunity to connect what they learn in the classroom with people who have served their country.
September 17 commemorates the signing of the U. S. Constitution in Philadelphia in 1787.
Montgomery County Sheriff Derrick Cunningham served as guest speaker. A veteran himself, Cunningham spoke about the importance of understanding the Constitution and the responsibility adults have to pass those lessons on to younger generations.
“A lot of people don’t realize this is where freedoms come from—the Constitution,” Cunningham said.
Goodwyn Middle School Principal Curtis Moore said the celebration is part of an effort to restore traditions and strengthen the school’s relationship with the community. With Goodwyn located near Maxwell Air Force Base and the VA, Moore hopes to continue building relationships with military families, veterans, law enforcement and community partners.
“This is just the beginning,” Moore said, adding that he would like to see the Constitution Day celebration grow each year.
The celebration also encouraged students to think about freedoms that can sometimes be taken for granted. From freedom of speech to other constitutional protections, the program highlighted why understanding the Constitution remains important.
The Constitution may have been written generations ago, but at Goodwyn Middle School, students were reminded that its impact remains very much a part of their lives today.
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