High School Students Gain Civic Knowledge at State University
In Starkville, Mississippi, the renowned John C. Stennis Institute at Mississippi State University initiated its premier Junior Civics Leadership Academy. The program invites high school students from around the state to acquire hands-on knowledge about the complexities of government from an impressive roster of professors and elected officials.
Understanding Government From All Angles
Dallas Breen, Executive Director of the Stennis Institute emphasized the importance of understanding governance at multiple levels. Breen stated “Everything these students are experiencing is designed towards helping them comprehend how government functions, why it’s structured the way it is, and how differences emerge at various levels.” The program is committed to providing students with a practical understanding of government operations at local, state, and federal levels.
A Unique Learning Experience with Community Impact
In efforts to move beyond customary classroom pedagogy, students at the Junior Civics Leadership Academy are participating in community impact projects. These projects offer students an immersive exposure to civic leadership and feature direct interaction with government processes.
Two students, Keyaveon Jackson and Claire Rizzo voiced their aspirations to use the program as a stepping stone to strengthen their communities. Keyaveon highlighted that the curriculum offers the ability to assist youth in his community, whilst also allowing him to satisfy his interests in governmental operations. Likewise, Claire shared her objective of enhancing her leadership qualities, emphasizing the importance of refining her ability to listen and speak effectively to serve her community better.
Encouraging Community Engagement and Governmental Understanding
Dallas Breen also expressed his desire, and the aim of the program, to help students foster an improved interaction level with their communities and the government. Breen hopes that the academy will help students understand government operations, and serve as a catalyst for them to grasp why things work the way they do in civic matters. However, the ultimate goal remains to facilitate an exciting learning environment where students can explore, experiment, and find out what works best for them.
The Junior Civic Leadership Academy at the John C. Stennis Institute is scheduled to run through the week and is certainly contributing to the development of future civic leaders and making a significant impact on the youth of Mississippi.
