Seven Carrollton High School students participated in the Georgia Center for Civic Engagement’s 80th Youth Assembly earlier this month. Pictured from left are Melanie Campos-Landa, Treasure Billings, Aileen Yanney, Jaira Cruz, Amira Dhople, Luke Zimmer, and Austin Ennis.
CARROLLTON, GA – Seven Carrollton High School students took their civic engagement to the next level by stepping into the shoes of state lawmakers, lobbyists, and attorneys at the Georgia Center for Civic Engagement’s 80th Youth Assembly.
Held at the State Capitol, the program offered Melanie Campos-Landa, Treasure Billings, Aileen Yanney, Jaira Cruz, Amira Dhople, Luke Zimmer, and Austin Ennis an opportunity to experience the legislative process firsthand.
Throughout the three-day event, students drafted, debated, and voted on bills from the House and Senate floors, mirroring the responsibilities of Georgia lawmakers. They also participated in committees and explored the newly introduced model congress program.
Junior Austin Ennis said participating in the Youth Assembly was a life-changing experience for him. “It gave me the confidence to express my ideas and understand that young people can play a crucial role in government,” he said.
CHS advisor Mike Howell praised the program’s impact, stating it’s “an incredible opportunity for our students to understand government processes and see how their voices matter in shaping policy”.
The Youth Assembly, with its legacy spanning eight decades, continues to inspire civic engagement and leadership among Georgia’s students, preparing them to be informed and active citizens.
“We are incredibly proud of how these students represented Carrollton High School at the Youth Assembly,” said CHS Principal Ian Lyle. “Opportunities like these prepare them to be responsible, informed citizens who can make a positive impact in our community and beyond.”
For more information on the Georgia Center for Civic Engagement or how to get involved, please visit www.georgiacivics.org.
