In a recent meeting held in Denver, representatives from Lexington expressed their enthusiasm for competing for the prestigious All American City Award. Craig, the deputy communications director and community outreach liaison for Mayor Linda Gordon, highlighted the collaborative efforts that led to Lexington being selected as one of the 20 finalists for the award.
The application process involved extensive collaboration with local schools, community organizations, and the Bluegrass Community Foundation. Craig emphasized that the city’s civic engagement and diverse perspectives are integral to its identity, stating, \"Collaborative governance and diverse perspectives are the heart of what makes Lexington such a special city.\"
Mayor Gordon underscored the importance of recognizing the achievements of both the city and the school system as a partnership. A key focus of their initiatives is to foster civic engagement among students, aligning with one of the five promises outlined in the Portrait of a Graduate program.
Students have been actively involved in civic discussions, with one student sharing their experience of speaking with the mayor about cybersecurity initiatives. This engagement is part of a broader effort initiated three to four years ago to enhance civics education in Fayette County Public Schools, particularly by connecting lessons to local government.
The collaboration between CivicLex and the city was pivotal in crafting the application, showcasing the innovative approaches taken by educators to promote civic education. The meeting highlighted Lexington's commitment to empowering its youth and enhancing community involvement, reinforcing the city’s aspirations for national recognition through the All American City Award.