Students learn how West Virginia’s government works
Preston County students and teachers from Terra Alta/East Preston, Aurora, West Preston and South Preston returned from a three-day learning experience in Charleston with the Youth Leadership Association’s 8th Grade Youth & Government Seminars.
Those representing Preston County were Samantha Canady, Kaylie Collins, Jalin Everly, Conner Friend, James Hauger, Devon Kelly, Kira Knotts, Rhylinn Sanders, Lena See, Jacob Sisler, Landon Sisler, Anthony Wilt, Carter Wilt, Lakin Wilt, Anna Eagle, Isabella Edmunds, Hunter Field, Angela Knisell, Payton Tennant, Bristal Bolyard, Sarah Dew, Jadyn Hershman, James Hoit, Nick Miller, Colton Sandes and Caleb Spiker.
While at the capital, the youth and their chaperones had the opportunity to tour the Capitol, Culture Center and many offices of state officials, visit the Kanawha County Magistrate Night Court Session and observe floor sessions of the Senate or House from the galleries. During a visit to the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, they had the honor of meeting and interacting with the sitting Supreme Court justices while learning the court’s rich history.
Other activities included participating in a mock trial held at the Robert C. Byrd U.S. Courthouse and a mock legislative session with Tom Tinder.
Sponsored by the Ohio-West Virginia Youth Leadership Association, the youth also invite the legislators from their home district to attend the YLA Legislative Dinner with them. This gives the youth the opportunity to have one-on-one discussions with their legislators, expressing their ideas and asking questions.
“These seminars are a fantastic opportunity for our students to learn more about state government. They are able to see Charleston in action and come out of the seminar with a better understanding of how the government all works together. They experience some amazing things and meet some inspiring people. They learn that ours is a people’s government and someday, they too can serve our great state of West Virginia,” said David King, YLA director.
For more information on the YLA 8th Grade Youth & Government Seminars or any of the other YLA programs, contact the Youth Leadership Association at yla@ylaleads.org, call 304-675-5899 or visit ylaleads.org. Staff is available to help every community become involved in these life-changing programs.
