Steve Clark presented a new Speaker’s tricorne hat to students at Athens District High School on Wednesday, renewing a tradition that dates back to 1947.
The eastern Ontario school operates a student model parliament believed to be the longest-running school-based parliament in Ontario. The program follows many of the same customs used in federal and provincial legislatures.
The tricorne hat is a symbol of the Speaker’s authority. The school had used the original hat since the model parliament began. After alumni raised concerns, Clark worked with the Legislative Assembly of Ontario to secure a replacement. He also presented a new tabbed collar for the Speaker.
“It’s important to preserve the school’s parliamentary heritage,” said Student Prime Minister Katherine Pattemore.
Clark said he was pleased to support the tradition. “It was a great day for the school,” he said.
