Denver Gerard and Kenzie Sandgren, seniors at West Plains High School, recently participated in the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Legislative Shadowing Project in Jefferson City.
On Feb. 28, the students were accompanied by chapter adviser Maegan Hurst on a trip to the Capitol city for the occasion. Sponsored by the Missouri FCCLA, the program aims to provide an opportunity for junior and senior high school students to spend a day with their state representatives, senators or other public officials at the State Capitol. The students observe hearings, meetings and other public duties.
The Legislative Shadowing Project, now in its 23rd year, is conducted by Missouri FCCLA, the Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) for Family and Consumer Sciences Education. A reception and opening session was held for participants on Feb. 27. Tours of the State Capitol, Missouri Archives and Supreme Court Building were provided.
The Legislative Shadowing Project is designed to allow students to connect their interests in law, public service, civic issues and the political process with their education. The event is designed to help students develop a better understanding of the political process and its impact on citizens.
FCCLA attempts to match students with officials from their local school districts wherever possible. The students prepare for the event by becoming familiar with their official’s responsibilities and current issues. If matched with a legislator, the student becomes knowledgeable about the bills introduced and committees on which the legislator serves.
FCCLA is a nonprofit student organization for young men and women, grades six through 12, in family consumer sciences education. Missouri FCCLA has more than 8,500 members in nearly 300 local chapters, making it the 10th-largest FCCLA state association in the nation, according to its officials.
