O'Connell congratulates student Billy Arnold for his success as a Foothill High School basketball player while on campus. (Jim Stevens - Staff)

PLEASANTON — Foothill High School's innovative student leadership program drew state Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell to campus Tuesday.

O'Connell came to the Pleasanton school to learn about the Active Citizenship and Leadership Academy, now in its pilot year.

The program, which has three teachers and about 120 students participating, is separated into three groups: campus, state and local, and global.

Students work together to become involved in various aspects of the campus, local and global communities, doing everything from making banners for a school basketball game to raising $20,000 for hurricane relief.

"It's an honor and a privilege to be a part of this program," said Scott Sears, who advises the campus academy.

While talking with Foothill'steachers and students in the program, O'Connell said he is pleased to see the hands-on experiences the academy offers.

"Every student doesn't learn the same, and we have to have more real-world experiences," O'Connell said. "Students have to feel connected."

Pleasanton's other comprehensive high school, Amador Valley, also is one of 11 California Civic Mission Pilot Schools, part of a program sponsored by the California Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools.

Other participating districts include West Contra Costa Unified and San Mateo Unified, as well as others throughout the state. Pleasanton Unified is the only district with more than one school in the program.

Each school develops a plan of its own to incorporate civics in and out of the classroom.

"This is Foothill's unique plan," said Debbie Genzer, who was representing the campaign. "They're really a leader."

Other projects students are working on include lunchtime rallies, school dances, Red Ribbon Week, blood drives, recycling, encouraging teenagers to vote and collecting donations for causes such as AIDS awareness and supporting military troops.

During his visit, O'Connell toured the academy classrooms and heard from students in the program.

Senior Elizabeth Usedom said the Active Citizenship and Leadership Academy has provided "a real learning experience" this year.

"I've gained more maturity and more knowledge this year than the past three years," Usedom said.

Cassie Stratton, a sophomore in the campus academy, said the focus for her group has been to promote school spirit. She and other students said they have noticed a difference.

"I think the school spirit this year is a lot bigger," Stratton said.

Working on critical thinking and problem solving are essential keys to making a leader, O'Connell said.

"I'm very impressed," O'Connell told students and staff. "It's a great program. You're really ahead of the curve."

Staff Writer Lea Blevins can be reached at lblevins@angnewspapers.com or (925) 416-4819.

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