Brought To You By Rapides Parish School Board; Written by Mary Helen Downey
Three Rapides Parish schools welcomed a special visitor on February 6 as U.S. Congressman Cleo Fields brought his “Congress to the Classroom” initiative to Alexandria, connecting local students with real-world lessons in leadership and civic engagement.
Students at Alexandria Middle Magnet School, Peabody Magnet High School, and Bolton Academy spent time with the congressman as part of his ambitious educational outreach tour designed to bring Congress directly into Louisiana’s Sixth Congressional District classrooms.
The visits featured interactive question-and-answer sessions where students had the opportunity to ask about government, policy-making, and public service. Congressman Fields delivered both practical guidance and motivational messages emphasizing their potential to shape the future of their communities and the nation.
Each student who participated received a certificate of recognition, marking their engagement in this unique learning experience. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between what students learn in their government and civics classes and the actual work of public servants, making abstract concepts tangible and relevant to their daily lives.
“Congress to the Classroom” is built on the principle of meeting students where they are and strengthening their understanding of civic responsibility and leadership development.
The three Alexandria schools represent just a fraction of Congressman Fields’ broader commitment to youth civic education. The congressman plans to visit 52 schools throughout the district as part of this tour, bringing the same message of engagement and empowerment to students across Louisiana’s Sixth Congressional District.
The visits reflect a shared commitment between elected officials and educators to cultivate informed, engaged citizens.
