Success StoryExperiencing Government in Action through State Capitol Experience



Experiencing Government in Action through State Capitol Experience

Author: Charles Comer

Planning Unit: Montgomery County CES

Major Program: Civic Engagement

Plan of Work: Leadership & Volunteer Development

Outcome: Initial Outcome

In a 2016 survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center, one in four youth were unable to name the three branches of government. In addition, in July 2018 the Kentucky Revised Statute (KRS) 158.141 stated a student must pass a civics test at a rate of 60% or higher, composed of 100 questions to graduate from a public high school with a regular diploma. To address this need, Kentucky 4-H Capitol Experience was established with the objectives of: 

  1. Developing a positive relationship between elected officials, 4-H members, 4-H Agents, and 4-H volunteer leaders. 
  2. Increasing the knowledge of civics and state government in Kentucky 4-H participants.
  3. Increasing the knowledge of 4-H Youth Development programs to state elected officials. 
  4. Increasing a sense of responsibility in Kentucky 4-H members to take an active role in local and state government. 

Over 300 Kentucky 4-H Youth and extension personnel attended the 2023 Kentucky 4-H Capitol Experience event. Of the 4-H members participating in the event; (a) 41% had an interest (spark) in learning about state government processes, (b) 31% now understand the importance of being an informed citizen, (c) 28% of youth participating plan to register to vote as soon as they are eligible, and (d) 21% want to learn more about state and local government or run for office in their 4-H club.

Montgomery County was represented by a delegation of 3 youth delegates and the County Extension All Programs Assistant.  The highlight of the day for the group was the visit with State Representative David Hale who represents Montgomery Powell and Menifee counties.   He gave the group a tour of the Capitol taking time to explain his responsibilities which led to a visit to the floor of the House of Representatives to learn about the etiquette and procedures of the House of Representatives.   As part of the tour, the group got to visit the chambers of the Kentucky State Supreme Court to learn about the judicial branch of government.  

 






Stories by Charles Comer


Summer isn't Summer Without 4-H Camp: The Sequel

about 6 years ago by Charles Comer

Summer isnt summer without 4-H Camp: The Sequel. True in 2017 for Montgomery County campers, repeate... Read More


Promoting Lifelong Healthy Food Choices

about 6 years ago by Charles Comer

In 2012-13, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture launched the Kentucky Junior Chef competition to ... Read More


Stories by Montgomery County CES


Incorporating Healthy Options in Schools

about 6 years ago by Hannah Mayrand

The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends children ages 6 to 13 years should consume... Read More


Healthy Bodies Healthy Minds

about 6 years ago by Hannah Mayrand

According to the CDC, 15.6% of adolescents in Kentucky are considered overweight and 17.6% are obese... Read More