A survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that one in four youth cannot name the three branches of government. Kentucky Revised Statute 158.141 requires high school students to pass a 100-question civics test with a score of 60% or higher to earn a regular diploma.

Research from the National Endowment for the Arts shows that cultural arts exposure improves academic performance, fosters creativity, builds critical thinking skills, and promotes civic engagement. A Kentucky Arts Council survey revealed that many school districts undervalue the arts despite these benefits. Most lack dedicated arts supervisors and fail to leverage local cultural resources to strengthen arts programs.

The Laurel County 4-H Agent expanded the Kentucky 4-H Capitol Experience to a two-day program to address these gaps. The goals were to:

1. Expose youth to cultural arts
2. Increase civic knowledge among Laurel County 4-H members
3. Build positive relationships between youth and elected officials

Thirty-eight youth participated in the Laurel County 4-H Cultural Arts and Capitol Experience. The first day included tours of the University of Kentucky Art Museum and the Living Arts and Science Center in Lexington. On day two, participants traveled to Frankfort for the Capitol Experience.

In Frankfort, youth attended the House Education Committee meeting as guests of Representative Timmy Truett. Discussions included proposed legislation on banning cell phones in schools and requiring financial literacy for graduation. They also observed the Senate Transportation Committee meeting as guests of Senator Brandon Storm. There, they learned about proposed legislation on street-legal special purpose vehicles and a resolution supporting autonomous vehicle development in Kentucky. Youth engaged in a Q&A with Senator Storm and toured both the Capitol and the Old State Capitol buildings.

All participants gained exposure to multiple art forms and deepened their appreciation for the cultural arts. After the trip, 85% reported wanting to continue learning about the arts. All youth reported increased knowledge of state government. Additionally, 92% practiced communication skills, 100% witnessed government in action, and 74% gained insight into how local issues inspire legislative change.

Photo Caption: Laurel County 4-H members explored the Kentucky State Capitol and the historic Old State Capitol building during the Kentucky 4-H Capitol Experience, gaining firsthand insight into state government and civic engagement.