On February 28, 2024, students from various school districts and a student group called March to the Polls participated in a City Council meeting focused on civic education. The students were welcomed by the Community Engagement Liaison for their district and councilmembers before the meeting commenced.
Mayor Pro Tempore Gyna Bivens commended the efforts of the Communications & Public Engagement and Education Strategy departments, stating, "I’d like to recognize the Communications & Public Engagement and Education Strategy departments that pulled all of this together for us today, bringing these students here and getting them engaged."
During the meeting, Mayor Mattie Parker addressed the students, expressing pride in their attendance and emphasizing the importance of their participation. Mayor Parker encouraged the students by saying, “We’re proud that you took the time to attend the meeting today. We know we have future leaders in attendance today and we hope you learn something from this meeting.”
The Community Engagement Division of the Communications & Public Engagement Department provides educational programs to local schools free of charge, focusing on government and civic engagement. The City Council meeting served as an opportunity for students to engage with local government and learn about civic responsibilities.
The event highlighted the Council's recognition of the students in attendance, with Councilmembers encouraging those eligible to vote, register for voting, and volunteer at the polls to actively participate in their community.
The initiative aimed to empower students through civic education and foster a sense of civic responsibility among the youth, paving the way for future leaders to be actively engaged in their communities.
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