Cookies, Questions & Civic Curiosity at Brandon High

 

Alan Henderson returned to his alma mater, Brandon High School, for a heartfelt visit with the next generation of civic thinkers. Speaking with the school’s Civics students, Henderson shared insights into how Tampa’s local government works and encouraged the young minds to think boldly about their role in shaping the future. With a few boxes of donuts and cookies in hand, he challenged the class to design their dream cities—a hands-on activity that sparked creative ideas ranging from practical to some warranting serious debate in city council!

 

The visit wasn’t just about teaching—it was about listening. Henderson was moved by the students’ thoughtful solutions to real-world issues and their eagerness to improve their communities. “There’s definitely something incredible about walking into the same classrooms that helped shape me,” he said. “To see it filled with students who are so full of curiosity, leadership, and vision—how could you not be inspired.” He closed with a message to the students: stay focused, dream big, and remember that the ideas you put on paper today could become the city we live in tomorrow.