Schalmont Middle School students enjoyed a field trip to Siena College’s STOP Conference Friday where they explored the values of leadership, equality, and making a difference in their communities.

The conference celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a focus on the Civil Rights Movement’s impact on the Disability Rights Movement.

“I gained a lot of insight learning about ableism and things I didn’t know before”, said 8th grader Maria Ndeme.

“It was a great learning experience,” added 6th grader Addie Trapasso.