MACARTHUR SOUTH WINS PRESTIGIOUS $100,000 AARP AWARD

The Young Men’s Academy for Academic and Civic Development at MacArthur South Senior High School recently was the recipient of the $100,000 Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus Legacy Award.  The prize was presented by the AARP, which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary.  As part of the festivities, AARP honored six educational institutions in the nation for their outstanding service learning initiatives. 

Students from the Young Men’s Academy volunteer at the Gelber Center for adults, where they read and cook for senior citizens, create artwork with them, and maintain a butterfly garden at the center. The Ethel Percy Andrus award is presented to the school whose service-learning program has either fostered greater intergenerational understanding or enhanced civic engagement between the school and its local community.

“This award acknowledges the work our students and staff have done, and it will allow us to continue to do service learning on a much larger scale, said Dr. David Moore, principal of MacArthur South. “These types of programs change the lives of our students. It allows them to find self-worth within themselves by serving others.”

Moore, students from the Young Men’s Academy, and Schools Superintendent Rudy Crew were present to receive the award at the AARP 50th birthday party held at the downtown Government Center.

“Partnerships in public education are invaluable, and AARP understands the importance of educating our future leaders,” said Dr. Crew. “Despite the stigma that has been placed on these young men, this amazing honor proves that the heart of people can not be measured,” he added. “We are proud of their accomplishment and continued hard work.”

Other school districts receiving the Ethel Percy Andrus Award were Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.