Student Senate: Equipping Tomorrow’s Leaders – 2024

There’s a crisis of civics education in the U.S. and in Minnesota. Less than half of adults can name the three branches of government, and less than a quarter can name religion as one of the rights secured by the First Amendment. Dave Racer’s Student Senate program teaches civics in a unique, participatory format. Student Senate prepares young people for a life of leadership through engaging real-world experience in the nuts and bolts of lawmaking. In a structured, fun environment that mirrors a State Legislature or Assembly, Student Senators research legislation, introduce bills, absorb pro-and-con witness testimony from recognized experts, offer amendments, and pass or defeat bills as they move through the process. Dave Racer will address the need for civics education, why homeschooling families hold the key to change, and how the Student Senate program helps equip tomorrow’s leaders. He will share ways for families outside the Twin Cities to bring the Student Senate experience and civics education to their communities.