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Local government education program becomes nation's model
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[NOV. 18, 2004]
URBANA -- A University of Illinois
Extension program that helps high school students learn and
understand more about local government has been selected for
presentation at a national convention for community development
professionals next year. "Tomorrow's Leaders: Understanding Illinois
Local Government" was developed by U of I Extension, the Illinois
Municipal League, Township Officials of Illinois, and the Illinois
Association of County Board Members and Commissioners. These groups
comprise the Partnership for Local Government Education. |
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"Members and staff of these local government associations felt there
was a need for a program to develop citizens who care about and
contribute to local communities," explained Jeri Marxman, Extension
public affairs and public policy specialist. "Today, more than 100
teachers throughout Illinois are using the curriculum in their
classrooms." Organizers of the February 2005 convention of the
National Association of Community Development Extension
Professionals requested a presentation on the program from the
Partnership for Local Government Education.
"While there are similar programs in other states, the Illinois
program is considered a model for successful collaboration of
Extension with local government associations," Marxman said.
Teachers using the curriculum in Illinois classrooms have
responded favorably in evaluations of the program. One teacher
wrote, "In eighth grade, I have three weeks to teach the Illinois
Constitution, review, test and give the students who failed an
opportunity to retake the test. Unfortunately, that allots little
time for studying local government. Out of the 15 days, this class
spent three days studying local government. It was time well-spent
and the part which seemed to interest the students most."
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Some teachers have sent students to attend meetings of local
government units and hand in reports. Other teachers invited local
officials into the classroom and reported that the officials'
presence was helpful in increasing the students' understanding of
local government.
The curriculum consists of eight units covering topics such as
local government finances, the police and court systems, safety,
local government services, and how citizens can affect the
governance of cities, villages, townships, counties and various
special districts.
Those interested in obtaining the curriculum for their school
should contact Ruby Lingle, U of I Extension, (217) 782-6515; Gary
Koch of the Illinois Municipal League, (217) 525-1220; Bryan Smith,
Township Officials of Illinois, (217) 744-2212; or Kelly Murray,
Illinois Association of County Board Members and Commissioners,
(217) 528-5331.
[University of Illinois news release]
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