Learning about government at local level
SC students set to attend County Government Day
On October 31st, 2016, Harvard, Sandy Creek and Sutton will be going to the Clay County Courthouse in Clay Center for County Government Day, an annual activity designed to teach students about the court system. Students will be splitting into groups to tour the courthouse before they learn about the jobs of those who work within the courthouse and how trials work
“I think it’s good for the seniors to go on this trip and learn about it because a lot of times the government is left out of school,” said Mr. Matt Swartzendruber, high school history teacher.
Many of the students are excited about going on this trip because it gives them the unique opportunity to get enriched with valuable knowledge about the court system.
“I think it’s a great experience and gives us a chance to learn about courtroom procedures,” said senior McKensi Uecker.
With the election approaching and some seniors of age to vote for the first time, County Government Day is a timely opportunity for students to learn about their local government and to understand how the system works.
“Even though I won’t be old enough to vote in the upcoming election, it’s valuable for me to learn how the government works and get an up close experience of what a trial looks like,” said senior Barbara Rodriguez.
While at the courthouse, students will be participating in the 2016 Mock Trial competition. The criminal case decides whether Blake M. Brando deliberately shot and killed Louise Choanike while she was performing during the dress rehearsal of Burr. Students will be in charge of working with their team to evaluate the information, respond quickly and sharpen their public speaking skills. The goals of this activity are to increase the students’ comprehension of the historical bases of justice, build bridges of cooperation between groups and encourage students to understand the meaning of good citizenship.
“I am excited for an opportunity to learn about the government and participate in the mock trial; it will be a worthwhile experience to compete against local schools,” said senior John Uecker.