Imagine you are walking through the fifth-grade hallway at McAlister Intermediate School; you are greeted by colorful “Save the Sharks” signs lining the walls. Step into one particular classroom, and you’ll find an official proclamation from the town’s First Selectman proudly displayed. What inspired a group of fifth graders to take on an important role in animal conservation? This story of a class rallying around one of their classmates explains it all.
Andersen Donavan is a fifth-grade student in Mrs. Harrington’s class at McAlister Intermediate School in Suffield. Passionate about ocean life, Andersen has made it his mission to help ban shark hunting. As part of the Kid Governor program, in which all fifth graders at McAlister participate, Andersen chose shark conservation as his platform. He spent weeks researching the topic and developing creative ways to inspire others to help. Although not elected Kid Governor this year, Andersen refused to give up on his cause.
In November 2025, Andersen drafted a persuasive speech and delivered it to his class. Mrs. Harrington’s students were immediately inspired, and the class quickly got to work. Their mission set sail, and together, they created posters to hang throughout the fifth-grade hallway to raise awareness about shark hunting.
As the project gained momentum, Andersen presented his speech to the entire fifth grade. Nearly all students voted in favor of supporting efforts to ban shark hunting.
News of Andersen’s dedication reached Suffield First Selectman Colin Moll, who wanted to recognize the students’ hard work. On Friday, January 23, Mr. Moll visited McAlister Intermediate School to present an official proclamation. The proclamation states, “The town of Suffield believes in teaching environmental responsibility and respect for all living things.” Andersen seemed to rejoice as he read the proclamation aloud to his classmates.
Although Andersen’s passion for protecting sharks reaches far beyond Suffield, his remarkable act of kindness and leadership began right here in Connecticut. Confident and determined, he hopes his efforts will inspire others to care about sharks and the ocean ecosystem.
Andersen says he wants to protect sharks because he doesn’t want them to go extinct before he can share how amazing they are with the world. He is knowledgeable about many shark species and other ocean organisms, and he hopes to continue learning and advocating for marine life. He continues to share his love of animals and educates his class each day on a different animal, part of his “Sea Creatures with Andersen”. Perhaps one day, Andersen will even be known for his conservation work on a larger scale.
When asked how others can help, Andersen suggests writing letters to local government officials to support shark conservation efforts. He also encourages community members to display “Save the Sharks” signs at their homes or businesses to spread awareness and promote this noble cause.
WARNING: According to First Selectman Colin Moll issued on the 23rd of January “Now, therefore be it proclaimed that shark hunting is banned within the town of Suffield Connecticut ” all thanks to Andersen.