When the time comes to learn lessons in political science, Christian students all across the nation are turning to a TeenPact state capitol experience instead of just a textbook. TeenPact teaches the foundations of government with the legislative branch, beginning with a week-long session at the student's own capitol.
Spiritually, TeenPact teaches Biblical principles of government and family, going hand-in-hand with the values of families who participate. It is very important that our young people see that spiritual revival is the answer to America's problems - not politics. We teach students that every Christian must pray and vote according to Biblical principles.
Overall, studies in government are beneficial in any vocation. Our hands-on civics courses offer an incredible platform for rhetoric, interpersonal communication, and current events. There is a great need for godly, powerful communication within any arena and our goal is to train up a generation of young people to fill that need.
This year B has been asking to go back & N was just old enough to attend. And Daddy offered to take the day off from work to take them. That meant I was able to stay home with just J & Miss L. We had a great time playing at the park.
One of the pieces of homework that the one-day students must do is write up a bill to present. It can be funny or serious. These are then used to help teach them about the legislative process.
Here is N reading his bill. The staffer is nearby to help out I think. And the bulk of N's bill read:
To ensure that all children behave themselves.
Purpose: To make it easier for parents and other adults to interact with children.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MAINE:
Section 1. For the purpose of this act, “children” shall mean any person between the ages of one to twelve.
Section 2. For the purpose of this act, “behave” shall mean children shall be seen and not heard while in the presence of adults unless they are given permission to speak.
Section 3. If a child does not behave, they will be whipped with a wet noodle twenty (20) times.
Section 4. For the purpose of this act, “noodle” shall mean a piece of cooked spaghetti.
Section 5. All laws or parts of laws in conflict with this act are hereby repealed.
Section 6. This act shall become effective seven (7) days after approval by the Governor or upon its otherwise becoming a law.
And B's bill....
To give free candy to everyone age four and up.
Purpose: To make sure people get more candy.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MAINE:
Section 1. This will be paid for by a six-percent (6%) tax on candy stores.
Section 2. Every month on the tenth (10th) day the qualified people will receive a certificate entitling them to one hundred (100) units of candy.
Section 3. A qualified person would be anyone age four or older.
Section 4. A unit would equal one (1) piece.
Section 5. Certificates may be saved and can be cashed in whenever they like.
Section 6. People who forge certificates would be fined One Thousand Dollars ($1000) and Five Hundred Dollars ($500) of that would go to the free candy program to help fund it.
Section 7. All laws or parts of laws in conflict with this act are hereby repealed.
Section 8. This act shall become effective seven (7) days after approval by the Governor or upon its otherwise becoming a law.
Yes, each boy came up with the bulk of their bill by themselves. I only helped them hash out details.
TeenPact holds a four day course for teens ages 13-18 & then have the one day class for 8-12 year olds on the Friday of the week. It's held right at the capital & state house buildings. Last year we spent most of our time in part of the cafeteria but this year they were able to use a real committee room. Apparently the chairs were far more comfortable.
More random pics from the day courtesy of my hubby:
It is a long day but a great introduction to what goes in to making a bill in to a law. I know that both boys learned a lot & neither minded all that much with having to dress up either.
How interesting! I've book marked the site. I'd like Jeremy(age 11) to do this. I see my state has a one day class for ages 8-12. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteSeveral kids from here go to Teen Pact each year. In fact, a few of the older kids are going to the big national teen pact thing back east next month.
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