Published: October 13, 2009 08:06 am      

Sen. Paddack to give area students a first-hand look at government

Sen. Susan Paddack is helping area students learn exactly what it is a state legislator does—and why students should care about what happens at the State Capitol.   The visits are part of an annual program called “America’s Legislators Back to School” sponsored by the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL).  The nonpartisan program began in 1999 to help counter a lack of interest by young people in the political process.

“I’ve participated in this program every single year since I first came to the Senate.  I like it because it is not about political parties or even the individual legislator visiting the school,” Paddack said.  “It is about teaching students what it is that lawmakers do, and how their work impacts all citizens—and how they, as students, can in turn impact that process.”

Paddack, D-Ada, has already visited U.S. History students at Ada High School, as well as freshmen students at Lindsay and Stonewall schools.  During October, she’ll also be visiting with middle school students at Pauls Valley and Whitebead, as well as high school students at Moss, Wetumka Holdenville and Roff.

“Studies have shown that young people who meet an elected official in person are far more likely to consider a career in public office themselves.  We need bright young minds to get involved with government and bring new ideas and energy to the process,” Paddack said.  “That’s what the Legislators Back To School program is all about.”

For more information, contact Sen. Paddack at 405-521-5541, or paddack@oksenate.gov.