In a move to invigorate the city's youth with the spirit of democracy, local students received a civic education crash course at Tuesday's City Council meeting. Participants hailed from Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, Fort Worth ISD, Crowley ISD, and members of the student group March to the Polls.
These wide-eyed learners were introduced to the workings of government courtesy of free educational programs provided by the Community Engagement Division. Arriving at the meeting, they were greeted by the Community Engagement Liaison corresponding to their district and received a welcome from councilmembers before the session commenced.
Educational offerings included "My Government & Me", teaching the nuts and bolts of community rules and leadership, "Middle and High School Civics 101", an engaging rundown on active citizenship, and "City Hall 101", which answers how the gears of city government turn. "I’d like to recognize the Communications & Public Engagement and Education Strategy departments that pulled all of this together for us today," Mayor Pro Tempore Gyna Bivens said during the meeting, complimenting their effort to inspire students' engagement.
The meeting became a dialogue with the future electorate as Mayor Mattie Parker queried the students about their learning aspirations. Encouraged if of age by the councilmembers to make their voices heard through voting and volunteering, students were acknowledged for their participation. "We’re proud that you took the time to attend the meeting today," Parker expressed to the students. "We know we have future leaders in attendance today and we hope you learn something from this meeting", according to the City of Fort Worth.
These initiatives underscore the city's commitment to fostering a new generation of informed citizens and potential leaders. As the students delved into the day's learnings, they stood as a testament to the potential inherent in our youth, soon to be molded into the civic leaders of tomorrow. Photos of the event featured students from Dunbar High School, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, and the March to the Polls organization.
