When students are given authentic opportunities to lead, create, and engage with their community, powerful things can happen.
Recently, District of Columbia International High School (DCI) senior Edwin Acevedo achieved a major personal and professional milestone on March 4 when he interviewed DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. During the interview, Edwin spoke with the mayor about her tenure leading the city, the highlights and challenges of serving Washington, DC, and their shared connection to DCI.
The opportunity was made possible through the support and collaboration of DCI’s media teacher advisor, Ms. Ashley Porter, and the school’s chief of staff, who helped bring the experience to life for students interested in media, storytelling, and civic engagement.
For Edwin, the interview represented more than just a memorable moment, it was the fulfillment of a personal goal.
“[Edwin] had set a goal to interview Mayor Bowser before the end of his senior year, so this experience was powerful in showing him and other students that putting your mind to something and taking clear action steps toward it can result in meaningful accomplishment and collaboration,” said Ms. Ashley Porter, DCI Media Teacher.
The interview also gave students a unique opportunity to engage directly with one of the District’s most recognizable civic leaders and gain firsthand insight into city leadership and public service.
The momentum didn’t stop there. In the same month, Edwin also interviewed the Deputy Mayor of Education Paul Kihn and the interview was highlighted on social media.
“This kind of project-based learning also is powerful in giving students a real-world lesson about how city government works,” Porter added.