In Starkville, Mississippi, high school students from across the state have an invaluable opportunity to receive first-hand experience in government and leadership roles in the inaugural run of the Junior Civics Leadership Academy (JCLA). This initiative, organized by the John C. Stennis Institute at Mississippi State University (MSU), encourages students to learn about government operations from experts and participate in community impact projects.
Understanding Government at Every Level
Dallas Breen, the Executive Director of the Stennis Institute, explained that the aim of the academy is to help students comprehend the many facets of government at all levels. He stressed the hands-on nature of the program, with students not just sitting through lectures but actively participating in projects and gaining immersive experience. This approach seeks to instil a deeper understanding of the workings of the local, state, and federal levels of government.
Students’ Expectations and Goals
Keyaveon Jackson and Claire Rizzo, two students participating in the JCLA, expressed their aspirations to utilize the lessons learned in the academy to benefit their communities and develop their leadership skills. Jackson highlighted the need for youth guidance in his community and shared his enthusiasm to learn about government. Rizzo, on the other hand, underscored the importance of effective communication, both speaking and listening, as leadership qualities she wanted to hone through the academy.
Engagement and Understanding
Dr. Breen expressed his hope that the program will spark increased engagement among the students with the government and their communities. The objective is not just to provide knowledge but also to enable the students to understand why things operate as they do and how policies made by government figures are intended to aid others. The academy inculcates a sense of curiosity and encourages them to learn and discover solutions that suit them the best.
The inaugural run of the Junior Civics Leadership Academy is slated to continue through Friday, offering aspiring young minds a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience in the realms of governance, policy-making, and community building.
Building Future Leaders: The Role of the Junior Civics Leadership Academy
By providing students with an in-depth understanding of governance at all levels and boosting their leadership skills, the JCLA builds a strong foundation for the next generation of leaders. The hands-on experience offered by the program goes a long way in equipping these young minds with the necessary skills to make a significant difference in their communities.
Initiatives like the JCLA play a crucial role in educating and nurturing future leaders. Equipping students with detailed knowledge of government workings and fostering their leadership skills at a young age is essential in ensuring a vibrant, responsive, and accountable democratic fabric for our future.
