Since 1947, Athens District High School (ADHS) has operated a functioning student model parliament believed to be the longest-running school-based parliament in Ontario complete with many of the same customs observed in federal and provincial legislatures.
On Wednesday, Feb. 25, that tradition was refreshed with the presentation of a new Speaker's tricorne hat by Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. The tricorne hat is a key symbol of the Speaker's authority, making the new addition especially meaningful for the school community.
The school has been using the original hat from when the student model parliament began. After being approached by ADHS alumni, Clark worked with the Legislative Assembly to secure a replacement, which he formally presented to students.
"It's important to preserve the school's parliamentary heritage," said Student Prime Minister Katherine Pattemore. "As one of the smallest high schools still running Parliament, it's great to keep that tradition alive."
"I'm happy to be able to refresh it and be here for Parliament," added Clark, who also presented a new tabbed collar for the Speaker. "It was a great day for the school."
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