Civic Leadership Institute A program for eighth graders leading into the Youth In Government program

Who can go? Eighth graders from a select group of schools (including Bryan!) Selection is by student interest and teacher recommendation-only 20 students from Bryan can go. Applications will be accepted until September 10 th !

What is CLI? A 40 hour (approximately) program spread over three days that gives students the opportunity to: Learn about state government—and experience it. Explore the roles of legislators, lawyers, judges, and the press in government by: Researching, discussing, and presenting on a variety of teen issues. Writing and debating bills. Observing and participating in mock trials. Participating in elections for state-wide YIG offices.

What will we do there? Thursday, November 13 tour the state capitol attend the opening session with YIG discussion on youth issues begin writing bills (Day to day schedule is subject to change— this was what has happened in the past.)

Friday, November 14 learn about the judicial system observe YIG mock trial participate in elements of mock trial evening activities at YMCA

Saturday, November 15 vote on next year’s state officers debate bills in CLI Legislature observe YIG House and Senate debates closing ceremony/banquet return to Bryan Middle School about 5:30 P.M.

Where will we stay? Capitol Plaza Hotel Two blocks from Capitol All rooms face onto interior atrium Four students to a room; two queen beds per room.

How much does it cost? CLI fee: $225 (Some scholarships available) This includes: 2 night stay in hotel Some meals All materials T shirt In addition, there will be a $35 fee for bus transportation and students must pay for additional meals on the trip.

Deadlines Applications will be accepted until September 10 th. Scholarship applications are also due no later than Sept. 15 th. Students will be chosen based on teacher recommendation. Program fee ($210) is due no later than October 3th. If applying for scholarship, please attach a check for the remainder of the program fee. Parents will be notified of any awarded amount as soon as we know. Transportation fee ($35) is due no later than Oct. 3 rd. Check need to be made to FHSD DO NOT register online! We will do this at our first meeting.

What else do I need to know? Involves some preparatory work—a few days after school to research selected topics. The topics include health and wellness of youth, teen smoking, school safety, and education. In addition, each student will choose another topic of interest. Dates for meetings are: Sept 15, Oct 6, Oct 20, Oct 27, and Nov 3 (if needed). We will meet from 3:30 to 4:30. This is an excellent introduction to the high school Youth in Government program. It is designed to give you a “head start” over the students who don’t attend this program, and will help you decide which program you want to participate in next year.

What clothing is required?  Most activities will be conducted in “business casual.” (Khakis/casual slacks with sweater or collared shirt) No jeans or athletic shoes are permitted during the capitol activities!  Dress shirt (males) and dress pants, skirts, or dress (females) may be required for some activities.  We will wear our t-shirts and jeans to the Friday evening YMCA activity.

What questions do you have? Application Packets are available from Mrs. Richardson-room 718