October 19, 2006

LegiSchool mock election gives students a lesson in democracy

Northern California high school students will gather on Friday, Oct. 20 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. for an educational forum at the Secretary of State’s office in Sacramento to learn more about the two major party candidates for governor. Representatives from the campaigns of Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger and Democrat Phil Angelides will be on hand to answer students’ questions.

Students from two Sacramento high schools, Luther Burbank High and Rio Americano High, Marysville High School, San Rafael High School and McClymonds High School in Oakland will attend the forum which will be moderated by Sacramento State College of Education professor Paula Gardner. Thousands of students across California will view the meeting on the California Channel or on videotape.

Questions on issues that are a concern of students will be addressed, including global warming, immigration policy, college tuition fees and the state high school exit exam. Students will also learn about candidates’ political philosophies and public policy priorities. After all the statements are made and the questions are answered students will vote in a mock election.

The LegiSchool Project is a non-partisan civic education collaboration between Sacramento State and the State Legislature, administered by the Center for California Studies. The project's mission is to engage young people in the democratic process by creating opportunities for students and state leaders to meet and share ideas on public policy issues affecting Californians and the nation. This particular forum is designed to educate students about the role of citizens in a representative democracy. For more information call (916) 278-6906. For media assistance, call the Sacramento State Public Affairs office (916) 278-6156.

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