Rep. Morales, Mayor Smiley, and Rep. Amo during visits to Paul Cuffee Upper School this year.
Paul Cuffee Upper School welcomed three local political leaders this year to deepen students’ understanding of civic leadership and local government. The visits were organized in collaboration with the AP Government class and the All School Meeting Leadership Team.
In November, State Representative David Morales, a candidate for Mayor of Providence, visited the Upper School to deliver the Thought of the Week. Morales shared his journey to public service and emphasized the importance of our responsibility to neighbors. In preparation, AP Government students researched his background and campaign and developed questions that guided the discussion, giving students direct experience engaging with a public official.
Building on that visit, students and staff invited the current Mayor to provide additional perspective. Mayor Brett Smiley visited PCUS during their All School Meeting in January. AP Government student leaders facilitated the conversation, asking questions about Mayor Smiley’s background, responsibilities, and approach to governing. For his Thought of the Week, Mayor Smiley encouraged students to reflect on what makes people happy and shared how his administration is working to improve the quality of life for Providence residents.
Most recently, Representative Gabe Amo joined PCUS for the ASM later in January, following the same protocol with AP students, and shared insights to inspire students to make every minute count, believe in themselves, work hard, and stay curious.
Through these visits, students practiced critical listening, compared viewpoints, and connected classroom learning to real-world civic leadership. The experience supported students in developing informed perspectives on local government and reinforced the importance of civic engagement and respectful dialogue.