Nebraska Launches “Kid Governor” Program, Empowering Fifth Graders to Shape State’s Future
LINCOLN, NE – September 26, 2023 – A new initiative aimed at fostering civic engagement is underway in Nebraska schools, as the Connecticut Democracy centre’s “Kid Governor” program officially launches statewide.designed for fifth-grade classrooms and homeschool groups, the program immerses students in the democratic process, from identifying community issues to running for office.
Over the coming weeks, students will delve into lessons on state government, develop three-point campaign platforms addressing issues they care about, and create campaign videos to present their ideas. They will then participate in classroom primaries to select nominees, culminating in a statewide election in early November. Schools can also choose to participate solely as voters, evaluating the finalists’ videos and casting ballots on Election Day.
The program timeline is ambitious: nominees will refine their platforms and produce videos throughout October. In early November, a panel will select seven finalists from across Nebraska, who will then become candidates in a statewide election viewed by thousands of fifth graders. The student receiving the most votes will be crowned nebraska’s first Kid Governor,with the remaining finalists forming the Kid Governor’s Cabinet. This group will then work throughout the remainder of the school year to translate campaign promises into tangible action.
Meadows Elementary in Ralston is among the first schools to begin the process, having already held classroom primaries earlier this month to select their nominee. That nominee is now preparing a campaign video and platform for statewide voters.
Organizers emphasize the program’s value extends beyond the election itself. It provides students with a first-hand experience in civic life – identifying problems, proposing solutions, listening to diverse perspectives, and voicing their opinions. Teachers benefit from a dynamic way to bring civics lessons to life, and communities have the prospect to cultivate the next generation of engaged citizens and leaders.
By Election Day in November, one fifth-grader will be named Nebraska’s Kid Governor. However, program leaders state that all participating students will have taken a crucial first step toward becoming active and informed citizens, representing a significant investment in Nebraska’s future.
