Stepping into a grand chamber full of teenagers dressed in formal attire scribbling notes and debating issues is a rare opportunity for high school students that Lincoln High School students can now experience as part of the Model Legislature club. After being inactive for over a decade, it has been revived this year by history teacher Mr. John Donegan.
“I wanted to revive the club because I have a passion for civic education, and felt that it was a great opportunity to connect with students and think about how we can make a difference in our communities,” said Donegan.
Model legislature is an opportunity for students to use their voice to debate real Rhode Island issues and play the role of a legislator to get a bill passed. Students brainstorm ideas for bills during the club and try to pass it during a youth legislative convention in March.
“Throughout the year, we will identify issues…we would like to address,” said Donegan. “We will research policy solutions, draft legislation, and prepare to make our case before a mock general assembly session of high school students from around the state. Students are given the opportunity to submit bills to the assembly of students that meets in the spring. There, students discuss, debate, and vote on the proposed bills.”
Model Legislature is not only a fun club to participate in, but it also provides many benefits for students.
“In each [meeting], we have spent the time given brainstorming ideas and beginning small amounts of research to support it,” said sophomore Alex Lopes. “I like the club quite a bit, it’s fun and is a great way to involve me in topics I am passionate about.”
Model Legislature also teaches students leadership skills, providing valuable experience to those who currently do not have a leadership position in the school.
“Participating in Model Legislature will help students gain valuable skills and experience that is transferable in the classroom and beyond,” said Donegan. “Every college you apply to, every job you want, they all will be looking for people who can read and write well, think critically. Through participation in Model Legislature, students can refine those skills that will help them in the classroom and beyond, all the while gaining valuable experience and insights into how our government works.”
The club meets a few times a month and is part of the YMCA youth government organization. With this partnership, club members will have the opportunity to a legislative meeting in March to talk about bills made by the students in an attempt to get them passed. Model legislature is looking for members, and any interested students can email Mr. Donegan.
