Fourth-Grader Gets To Be Mayor for the Day

Michael Hill is a fourth-grade student at John M. Marshall Elementary School, but today, he's Mayor Michael Hill.

East Hampton Village's actual Mayor Paul F. Rickenbach Jr. declared Michael, who he met through the Project MOST after-school program, the honorary mayor of the day on Friday.

Rickenbach didn't exactly relinquish his role — he had a meeting to run, after all — but he shared the microphone with his protégé at the monthly meeting Friday. Michael led the Pledge of Allegiance and received a proclamation.

Rickenbach said he met Michael at a check ceremony for Project MOST last year. When he asked Michael what he wanted to be when he grew up, Michael said he might be the mayor. He was so impressed by him that he has followed Michael’s progress in school.

"Michael is one of a kind," Rickenbach said, adding that he has "the biggest, brightest smile I've ever seen."

A letter from his teachers described Michael as energetic, smart, and always happy. "He is a good friend to everyone who knows him. If someone needs help, Michael is the first one to volunteer. If someone is sad, Michael is the first one to give them a hug."

Michael took the podium for a moment. "I promise to lead responsibly," he said. "Whatever you need, you can count on me."

Rickenbach said he is sure Michael will make a fine mayor someday.

"Anyone who knows Michael knows he is the warmest, most personable kid you'll ever want to meet. His strengths in academics are in Math, Social Studies and Science," Tim Bryden, the executive director at Project MOST, said.

Michael has been attending Project MOST since kindergarten.

"Michael, you made us very proud today," East Hampton School District Superintendent Rich Burns said, adding that it's great to see when a community helps see dreams grow. "It really does take a village to raise our children."