Most kids understand, at least in general, that there’s a national government and a state government. But say "local" government and the waters get muddy. Local often brings county government to mind and, at best, city/town government is lumped in, or forgotten at worst. The idea of having officials visit local schools to educate students on their municipal roles was conceived to help remind young constituents that there exists a government very close to the people and to teach them what it looks like.
School visits can be done for any age group from elementary up to college. The purpose is to spread municipal goodwill by outlining how municipal government works and the various roles within. For officials visiting fourth grade classes, we ask that the discussion include specifically how the role of the Mayor works, to encourage them to enter the annual "If I Were Mayor...I Would" essay contest.
School visits are also a criteria for any municipality vying for the Banner City/Town designation.
Not sure how it works? Here are a few pointers:
* The activity is open to any official, elected or staff, willing to take the time to visit a school visit.
* Contact your local school directly to set up either a single class visit or an assembly
* To qualify for Banner City/Town, school visits must be conducted by the May 22 deadline
* To encourage participation in the essay contest, visits must be conducted before the essay deadline of March 27
It’s that simple. So, on your mark, get ready...school visit!