New Hampshire Kids and Civics Education(New Hampshire News Bulletin)

New Hampshire News Connection

October 16, 2023

NH builds students’ civics knowledge through real-world campaigns

Kathryn Carley

Presidential candidates in New Hampshire may get the most attention but in fifth grade classrooms throughout the state, students are preparing to launch real-world campaigns of their own.
They will first learn the ropes of state government and the elections process before nominating candidates to serve full-year terms in office.
Jo Ann Robichaud, project coordinator for New Hampshire's Kid Governor Project, said students learn how the government can help address issues they care about including homelessness, food insecurity and mental health.
"We want the kids to have a better understanding of civics, and how to participate in civic life," Robichaud emphasized. "That starts young."
Robichaud explained the program teaches students how to effectively and confidently communicate with one another. Studies show students who receive civics learning are more likely to vote and volunteer in their community.
A new law enacted earlier this year requires all of New Hampshire's elementary and middle school students to receive civics education. High school students will need to pass a civics competency test and civics exam used by the U.S. Citizens and Immigration Services to graduate.
Robichaud argued civics education and programs like the Kid Governor Project shows students change is possible.
"Their passion that they give in their speeches is like 'wow,'" Robichaud noted. "It really shows you that children are very caring and they want to do important work in the world."
Robichaud added she hopes the program expands beyond its current reach of five states as studies show Americans lack a real understanding of how their government works or the freedoms they are guaranteed.

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