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Senator Moore visits district schools for National Legislators Back to School Program |
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Inspires young people to become engaged citizens |
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November 1, 2005 - In honor of the National Conference of State Legislatures’ (NCSL) America’s Legislators Back to School Program, Senator Richard T. Moore (D-Uxbridge) will visit middle schools throughout his district in the coming months. The senator plans to share with students his role as a legislator and hopes to shed some light on the often confusing legislative process. “These visits aim to teach young people about the importance of participating in our representative democracy,” Moore said. “A good understanding of the governmental process and civics at an early age encourages students to become active citizens in the future.” This years marks the 7th annual celebration of the National Conference of State Legislators’ America’s Back to School Program, which promotes representative democracy and a better understanding of lawmakers and their responsibilities. In 1999, the program was piloted in four states, including Massachusetts, as America’s Legislators Back to School Week. Senator Moore took the lead role in introducing the idea to his Senate colleagues and to students and teachers in his district. This year, the program has been expanded from one week to last throughout the school year, allowing legislators more time to visit classrooms in their districts. Senator Moore noted that he welcomes the opportunity to talk to students throughout the year as one week is not enough time to stress the importance of civic education. The Uxbridge Democrat kicked off the 2005 program today by visiting 140 fifth grade students at Dudley Middle School. While many students asked questions relating to the president and the federal government, some did understand the roles of the Governor of Massachusetts and the Legislature. "Even though at their age they may not know the specific differences between the local, state and federal governments, it is important to reach out to our young people and let them know how much we want them to be active participants in their government and their community" said Senator Moore. Some upcoming school visits planned by the senator are:
The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system. Senator Moore, who is a member of the NCSL Executive Committee and represents the organization on a National Steering Committee for Renewing the Civic Mission of Our Schools, is a long-time advocate of programs to help citizens understand and get involved in their own government. |
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