At South Elementary School, fifth-grade teachers Gwen Thompson and Casey Massman have several traditional projects that lower grade students know will some day be their turn.
Among other projects like the solar system museum, beginning orchestra, DARE and outdoor education day, an essay contest offers the chance for two writers to sit in the mayor's chair during a Jefferson City Council meeting to read their essays.
Second-grade classes, parents and fellow fifth-graders sat and cheered for 10 writers whose essays on "My Take On Jefferson City" were announced Tuesday.