Franklin Youth Government Week

Description

Franklin Youth Government Week
City of Franklin officials, Franklin Elks Lodge #1280, and Franklin High School team up for
Youth and Government week May 29-31st
 
Franklin, NH The Youth and Government week was established here in Franklin over 48 years ago. This program provides a unique civic engagement and service learning opportunity that offers high school students the chance to serve in a model local government process. Students are elected to the various city government positions before kickoff which is set this year at City Hall on Tuesday May 29th   at 12:15pm. Tuesday students will get an over view of city government  from  City Manager Dragon, City Department Heads and  guest speakers- including Franklin’s Mayor Ken Merrifield and Legislative Representatives.  Wednesday students will begin the task of learning about their new role and responsibilities. Over the next two days students will be given a situation in their respective departments to bring forward at the “Mock City Council Meeting” held Thursday evening.  
The real test comes Thursday evening at the Elks lodge where students will have prepared an agenda and council packets with completed action reports. These students will show case all they have learned and make their case to the elected city council! Those playing the role of City council will ask questions and the audience, including many parents and members of the real city council and mayor, will see it all unfold. All this happens after a wonderful dinner put on by the Elks organization for all participants and their families. The evening concludes with formal recognition of each student.  
“This longstanding tradition of youth involved in City Government is important to carry on” said City Manager Elizabeth Dragon. “It continues to be an opportunity for all three organizations (The Elks, City, and the School) to work together to provide a real life experience for students to not only learn about government but to also be part of it”.  “Sometimes students give us an entirely different perspective and we as city officials, like the students, get a chance to learn and grow-it is a win-win for everyone”. “Each year I am so grateful for all the Franklin Elks organization does in the community.” “They are a very active organization throughout the year. They are involved the Mayor’s drug task force and efforts to keep our youth engaged. The Elks partner with the City in a variety of ways.” “I can’t wait to see what things we learn from each other this year.” “It is a great deal of work but it is also a lot of fun!”