Belmar’s Youth Government Program Empowers Students in Civic Engagement
Students Dive into Local Governance, Shadow Careers, and Conduct Mock Trials to Enhance Civic Awareness
Belmar Middle School Students Engage in Hands-On Civic Learning Through Annual Youth Government Program Photo Credit: Sean McDonald
Belmar Middle School Students Engage in Hands-On Civic Learning Through Annual Youth Government Program Photo Credit: Sean McDonald
Belmar Middle School Students Engage in Hands-On Civic Learning Through Annual Youth Government Program Photo Credit: Sean McDonald
Belmar Middle School Students Engage in Hands-On Civic Learning Through Annual Youth Government Program Photo Credit: Sean McDonald
Belmar Middle School Students Engage in Hands-On Civic Learning Through Annual Youth Government Program Photo Credit: Sean McDonald
Belmar Middle School Students Engage in Hands-On Civic Learning Through Annual Youth Government Program Photo Credit: Sean McDonald
Belmar Middle School Students Engage in Hands-On Civic Learning Through Annual Youth Government Program Photo Credit: Sean McDonald
Belmar Middle School Students Engage in Hands-On Civic Learning Through Annual Youth Government Program Photo Credit: Sean McDonald
By Matt Doherty https://www.tapinto.net/towns/belmar-slash-lake-como
Published December 14, 2023 at 8:55 AM
Last Updated December 14, 2023 at 9:24 AM
BELMAR, NJ— The annual Youth Government Program in Belmar took center stage this year, engaging 65 seventh and eighth-grade students in a hands-on exploration of local governance, career opportunities, and a thought-provoking mock trial.
Under the guidance of Belmar Elementary School Teacher Sean McDonald, the program provided students with a plethora of roles, from mayor and town council members to positions like police chief, EMT, fire chief, recreation director, public works, and borough attorney. The young participants delved into designing innovative ideas for their townships, gearing up for future presentations.
One of the program’s highlights was “Youth Government Day” on December 7th, where BES students visited Lake Como and Belmar Borough. They had the unique chance to shadow various professionals, gaining insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of roles such as police chief, EMT, fire chief, and more. The town employees generously shared their experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of civic duties.