Defining their legacy: River Ridge project encourages students to make a difference

HANOVER–River Ridge Middle School students were assigned by literature teacher Kim Thorsen to think of ways in which they can leave their legacy behind or have an impact on others. This idea, during remote learning, came from a post that Thorsen saw on social media that explained: “In 1665, Isaac Newton had to work from home when the University of Cambridge temporarily closed due to the Bubonic plague. It was the most productive period of his life, and he used that time to develop his theories on calculus, optics and gravity.”

This idea prompted Thorsen to think of ways in which students could be active and seek out ways in which they can help their community during this challenging time. The projects were varied and showcased the interests that the students had and showed what they were most passionate about.

The projects included blankets that Micaela Miller made for Safe Haven, a garbage up challenge by Millie Boden, Riverview backpacks made by Dolan Geerts and Gwen Miller, Gwen Green’s walk for water and Cora Ritchie’s community readers website. Addison Albrecht also collected COVID stories and experiences and is putting them together in a book.

Thorsen said she was impressed by all of the work the students put into these projects and the impact that they seek to make on their communities.