Rowlett Middle Academy Celebrates Locals Government Officials

Rowlett Middle Academy recently welcomed local leaders to campus for its annual Local Government Day, giving students a real-world look at how community agencies serve residents and shape everyday life.

Coordinated by RMA Civics teachers, the event featured a rotating schedule of presentations where students heard directly from officials about their responsibilities, services, and opportunities for civic participation.

Represented offices included the Manatee Clerk of Court, Manatee County Supervisor of Elections, Manatee Tax Collector/Property Appraiser, Teen Court, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Manatee County Government, and the 12th Judicial Circuit. Students also heard from special guests Mayor Dan West of Palmetto and Manatee County School Board Member Charlie Kennedy.

8th Grade Civics teacher Raymond Morelli expressed appreciation for the community partnership: “We are so grateful to our friends in Manatee County for showing students just how much local government impacts daily life. Each year, seeing the character and dedication of our public servants leaves me feeling even better about the community where we live and work.”

Fellow 8th Grade Civics teacher Lindsay Richter shared why the tradition matters: “Meeting local leaders in person helps students connect classroom learning to the real world. It builds meaningful understanding of civic responsibility while reinforcing the civics standards they are preparing to demonstrate on the state exam.”

Students echoed that enthusiasm. “It was cool that they took time out of their busy schedules to meet with us. The presentations were really interesting,” noted 8th Grader, Ben Levey.