By: Footprint Staff Writers

Two Galway High School students played an important role in the Board of Education meeting that took place Thursday, March 24th in the library.

First, the standing room only crowd honored Galway students nominated for citizenship awards from their respective building principals. Mr. Griffin recognized third grader Madison DesPres, and Mr. Berry praised Erica Culbert, a sixth grader, for her effort. Mr. Bednarek presented the high school citizenship award to junior Elizabeth Horstmann. Here is what Mr. Bednarek had to say about Liz:

“Elizabeth Hortsmann is one of the most active volunteers in our school. She has been part of 4-H for more than six years. She has been president of Red Barn Bunnies 4-H club for four years and a participant of the Saratoga County Fair for three years with both rabbits and cattle. As part of this acitivity, she volunteers at the 4-H snack bar at the fair and the fantastic Sundae at the Farm events. Elizabeth has also exhibited her love for animals by joining in the Busy Bone 500 walk for animals. She has been a member of the Leos Club (for two years), has served as treasurer since January and has volunteered time at the Cabin Fever Adirondack Song Fest. Additionally, she has volunteered at craft workshops making gifts for the elderly and the disabled receiving Meals on Wheels. She writes for The Footprint, and is a member of the National Honor Society. It gives me great pleasure to award this certificate and present her with a $50 check from The Galway Lions Club.”

Sophomore Joe English presented a sophisticated argument as to why Galway should adopt the Student Court system. The program gives students who commit minor offenses the opportunity to recieve an alternative punishment from a court of their peers. The goal is to give students on both sides of the situation the experience of taking responsibility for actions, as well as learning how the law works at no cost to the district. English answered all the questions of the Board authoritatively and clearly.

Jossie Dodds commented at the meeting, “I am a member of the Secondary Advisory Board, and I feel that [Student Court] would prevent minor offenses from slipping through the cracks.  The students who would be interested in working in this system understand the obligations and responsibilities needed to run this Student Court smoothly.”

English stated that, “This is a Win, Win, Win Deal. The offenders are given a constructive alternative to traditional punishments through community service.  Student participants can get community service time and first-hand knowledge of how our legal system works. Additionally, the school community has their students make amends for their actions through service and taking responsibility in a constructive way. In a time where so much can be taken away due to budget problems, it’s a no brainer to add something this positive–at no cost to the school.”

Another issue that was raised by English at the meeting was the need for extra-curricular activities. “Granted the financial situation is pretty dire at this point and academics come first.  However, extra-curricular activities like Class Office, The Footprint, Mock Trial, Drama Club, etc.  provide students with real world experiences and knowledge they would never be able to gain in a classroom setting. I wouldn’t hesitate to say that half of everything I’ve learned in school has been through extracurricular activities and sports.”