NEWBURYPORT — Rupert A. Nock Middle School eighth-graders got a chance Friday to learn civics from someone known nationwide for her skills in the subject, Gov. Maura Healey.
The governor has ties to the Clipper City, with both of her parents hailing from Newburyport.
“My family goes way, way back in Newburyport. So, I love this town, this area,” Healey said.
The visit came after Healey’s nephew, an eighth-grade student at the school, told the governor about his civics studies. As a result, the governor offered to stop by the school and take questions from students.
The questions ranged from homelessness to the length of the work week and beyond. Healey went on to discuss the impact of Boston hosting the 2026 World Cup to prioritizing financial literacy in schools.
Students also posed questions about vocational schools and Healey said there needs to be upgrades at nearby Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School.
“I’m not happy with the state at Whittier. I love the teachers and love the program, but it needs better facilities. It really does because I want Massachusetts students leaving with the very best opportunity, very best education. And part of that is you’ve got to have better lab space, classroom space, all the stuff that a modern technical school location should have. So, that’s something that we’re trying to work on as a state,” she said.
A question regarding the hardest part of her job was also asked, and Healey said both the best and most difficult part of being governor has to do with serving her constituents.
“Not being able to help people is the hardest part. The best part of the job is being able to help people,” she said.
Principal Nick Markos said his students were excited to have a chance to speak with the governor.
“There’s been a buzz in the building. We found out about it Wednesday afternoon, we let them know Thursday morning. So, they’ve been working over the last 24 hours asking these great questions that they’re asking,” he said.
Healey was equally happy to chat with the students and provide the perspective of a local leader.
“I love talking to young people and try to do it as often as I can,” she said. “First of all, I get great ideas from young people about what they need from government. I also really appreciate the chance to have conversations with students who right now are learning civics.
“And, I think it’s really, really important that leaders like myself show up so that people understand who we are, what we’re trying to do and have a chance to ask questions about what we do,” Healey added. “It’s really important that all of our young people, and frankly all residents, have a good understanding of government and civics.”
School Superintendent Sean Gallagher said he was glad the governor was able to have conversations with Newburyport students and address them directly.
“I think it’s awesome. We always look for adults to set the example. And, when you have the governor meeting with students and really, genuinely listening to them, listening to their input and questions, I think it was just a great learning experience for all of them,” he said.