Students at B.M.C. Durfee High School are taking civics out of the textbook and into the real world. During a recent Civics Outreach Fair held in the Keeley Library, graduating seniors connected classroom concepts directly with the pressing issues facing their community as part of their preparation for the state-required State Civic Action Project.
Organized by Durfee’s Social Studies Civic Life and Financial Literacy department, the event gave students a unique platform to speak face-to-face with local leaders and community organizations. Attendees explored critical local topics ranging from housing, mental health, and public safety to food services, gaining firsthand insights into how these challenges impact Fall River and the dedicated professionals working to address them.
The school extended its gratitude to the numerous local leaders and organizations who participated, including:
- Government Officials: Mayor Paul Coogan and Representative Carole Fiola
- Community & Support Agencies: SSTAR, Fall River Community Development Agency, Catholic Charities, and the Children’s Advocacy Center
- Public Safety & Services: Fall River Police Department, Bristol County Sheriff’s Office, and the Solid Waste Department
- Education & Nutrition: FRPS School Adjustment Counselors, alongside Bob Cutting representing Whitsons and the FRPS Nutrition Department
By bringing these changemakers directly to the students, the fair successfully helped Durfee’s “Hilltoppers” see the tangible impact of civic engagement.
For a closer look at the event, you can check out coverage from Fall River Educational Television
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