Federal Way Public Schools students visited Federal Way City Hall March 13 and heard from city leaders, including Mayor Jim Ferrell, Police Chief Andy Hwang, and learned about city careers and how to be leaders in their community.

The 32 scholars in attendance are part of the Scholar Advisory to the Superintendent.

For the second year in a row, this advisory group was convened by Superintendent Dr. Tammy Campbell to provide student voice and perspective on how things are going in FWPS and to provide leadership and educational opportunities throughout the year for scholars.

This was the second site visit the Scholar Advisory to the Superintendent has made this year. In October, scholars toured the Lakehaven Water and Sewer District and learned about the various careers represented there.

On their tour of City Hall, Ferrell spoke to the scholars about the importance of “people supporting what they help create” and discussed his efforts to realize a vision for the city of Federal Way, according to a media release. He also listened as scholars shared their thoughts about how to reach more students and members of the community.

Hwang talked to scholars about vision, passion and character, as well as what it takes to become a police officer.

“All successful people have a vision. What do you want tomorrow to look like for you and your organization?” he asked.

Students asked questions about how trust is built with the community and what steps are being taken to prevent crime.

Current university students who are working as economic development interns for the city shared what it takes to find, apply and gain experience for internship opportunities.

Community Center Manager Doug Nelson talked about the various careers available within the parks and recreation department, as well as summer employment opportunities.

Scholars also learned about law careers from Chief Prosecutor Jennifer Castleton, who gave background of how to get a law job and what the work looks like in various levels of government. The day concluded with a tour of the police department.