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Maize High School wins 2020 Civic Advocacy Network (CAN) Award
Maize High School has been recognized by the Kansas Department of Education as a school that promotes and celebrates civic engagement among students and within the community.
On April 1, members of the Kansas State Board of Education recognized Maize High School as a winner of the 2020 Civic Advocacy Network (CAN) Award. The school is one of nine in Kansas to win the 2020 award. Those participating in the recognition talked about the many ways Maize High School is involved in the OneMa1ze and greater Wichita communities. In many cases, students are tapped into statewide initiatives that help others, as well.
Senior Jacob Hanna spoke about his work with the school's Climate Club, whose research into harmful algal blooms is instrumental in efforts to improve drinking water for all Kansans.
Junior M.J. McCollum talked about how Maize High School Cheer champions the Kansas Honor Flight. In doing so, the students support efforts to appreciate veterans and raise money for them to visit memorials in Washington, D.C.
Junior Janell Fuhrman explained how the school's Kay Club, a student-led leadership club, organizes food drives, blood drives, and service projects to benefit local nonprofits, including the Kansas Humane Society.
Maize High School Principal Dr. Chris Botts spoke about the school's community service day. Traditionally on Sept. 11, the day gets more than 1,100 students into the community to volunteer in various capacities, mowing lots, preparing meals, making blankets for hospitalized children, and more. Due to COVID, the school was unable to participate this year but looks forward to the opportunity to once again get more involved when it is safer to do so.
Dr. Botts said that the day is a rewarding experience for students, including those who may not be involved in other school activities. It's a day to honor those who died and served in Sept. 11 and a way for his school to never forget the significance of Sept. 11.
Jim McNiece, who represents the Kansas State Board of Education District 10, expressed his appreciation for what Maize High School and its staff members and students do for others.
"You guys will always remember this," he said. "You're building a legacy."
Pictured above from left: Maize High School juniors Janell Fuhrman and M.J. McCollum and senior Jacob Hanna.
Pictured at left: Maize High School Principal Dr. Chris Botts visits with Kansas State School Board members about the school's civic involvement.