Manley Takes Part in “Principal for a Day” at Sandburg Elementary

State Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, participated in Joliet School District 86’s annual “Principal for a Day” at Carl Sandburg Elementary School on October 12th. Each year the school district invites community leaders and government officials to visit schools and get a behind the scenes look at typical school day. This year Manley was invited to visit Sandburg Elementary and was given a tour by Principal Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith.

“Principal for a Day is one of my favorite events of the year,” said Manley. “I love being able to visit classrooms to talk about some of the work I do in Springfield, and to experience what a typical day is like for students and teachers. After interacting with the students, I am certain that many of them will be called to public service and become our future leaders of tomorrow.”

Manley started the morning by greeting students in the school parking lot with Dr. Russell-Smith and helped with the morning announcements. Next, Manley had the opportunity to visit several classrooms, with classes ranging from kindergarten through 5th grade. Students were able to ask questions about what a state representative does and offered their own ideas about legislation they would like to see in Springfield. Suggestions included legislation that will keep their schools safe, make sure people are safe while driving, and allow for better school lunches.

“This event is so important because our community partners and elected officials get to see firsthand the power of public education," said Dr. Russell-Smith. "When our elected officials visit our schools with an eye for equity, relationships, and student achievement, they see a side of public education that rarely makes the news; students who love learning, teachers who love teaching, and the knowledgeable, energetic school leaders who make magic happen every day for our state's most vibrant population, our children."

“I enjoyed my day at Carl Sandburg immensely,” said Manley. I saw dedication and love displayed by the teachers and administration, interest and excitement by the students, and I look forward to participating next year as well.”