The Junior State of America (JSA) is inviting Virgin Islands high school students and teachers to participate in its spring mini-conference, to be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 24, in the Charlotte Amalie High School library. This event will allow students to debate and explore contemporary political and social issues, a great way for students to improve their public speaking and critical thinking skills, share their views with the community, gain valuable leadership experience, and make new friends.
JSA is the largest nonpartisan, student-run, civics education organization in the country and has been conducting programs for the nation’s high school students for over 70 years. Its goal is to “Make Democracy Work,” by preparing high school students to be active, involved citizens, and to foster an understanding of the important roles they play in a democratic form of government. Through school based clubs and island-wide activities like this conference, students are able to increase their understanding and appreciation of government and politics by participating in debates, group discussions, and Q&A sessions with local leaders.
At the conference, students will examine some of the critical domestic policy issues facing the nation, including the recently passed Health Care Reform Legislation. They will explore these issues while developing the curiosity and analytical skills needed to engage in the worlds of politics, civics and public policy. The conference keynote speaker will be Senator Louis Patrick Hill, president of the 28th Legislature of the Virgin Islands. The conference is open to all high school students, parents, teachers and interested persons in the community. Attendees are asked to wear business-casual attire. Admission is free, and lunch will be provided. Participants are asked to RSVP for the conference by Wednesday, April 21.
Finally, interested students and teachers should send an e-mail to jsavirginislands@gmail.com to join the pre-convention mailing list. JSA will send updates on debate topics and brief preparatory reading suggestions so students will be prepared for the conference and will be able to participate to the fullest extent.
For additional information, contact Marc Stridiron at 344-2434 or by e-mail at jsavirginislands@gmail.com. Or visit the Web site at jsa.org.
