Graham Academy students take over top Wilkes-Barre positions
WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — In celebration of April's World Autism Awareness Month, a group of students got to experience first-hand what it's like to be a city leader.
A group of students from the Graham Academy took over the top positions in the city of Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday.
Each student sported a sash with their new title: Mayor, police chief, fire chief, and city councilman.
All were sworn in before heading out to their respective offices.
'Our Light It Up Blue event is to bring awareness to the community for children and students who are going through the daily routine of having autism,' said Graham Academy Regional Director Carol McGrane.
13-year-old Aiden Temple, the honorary Mayor of Wilkes-Barre, got right to work in the mayor's office.
He requested a sparkling water before the questions started flying in.
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'These are cameras that we have in the city. Do you think maybe I can get another 20 cameras like this?' Rob Slicker with Wilkes-Barre Parking Enforcement asked.
'Maybe?' Aiden replied.
It was a tough call. When 'Mayor Aiden' gathered more information, his answer changed.
'It costs us nothing,' Slicker said.
'Then yes,' Aiden stated.
Mayor George Brown says this is the fifth year the Graham Academy has partnered with the city of Wilkes-Barre for Light It Up Blue Day.
'It's a wonderful way to make it a special day for these great people and see what the future might be like. I just love it,' Mayor Brown said.
Each student's family was also along for the big day.
'It's exciting, I'm sure he's nervous, but it's very exciting. It's a big position for him to be in for him,' Aiden's Dad, Jason Hawkey, said.
Aiden was asked 'So what are your plans as Mayor? What would you like to do?'
'Help the homeless and the homeless animals,' Aiden replied.
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Honorary Police Chief Connor Jacukowicz hit the lights and sirens on the police cruiser.
The 14-year-old hopped in the passenger seat to take a ride around the Diamond City.
'I want to help the city,' Conner stated.
Police Chief Connor also made a few requests in the mayor's office.
'20 police cars?' Connor asked.
'You want the mayor to buy 20 new police cars?' Mayor Brown asked.
'Yes?' Conner replied.
The two leaders were able to work together to come to a compromise.
'What about 11?' Aiden proposed.
'Good,' Conner stated.
This year's Light It Up Blue event for Autism Awareness will be held on Sunday, May 4.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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