Released on November 17, 2016
Students from Consul School and Val Marie School will see first-hand how their government works, through the Provincial Capital Commission’s A Day in the Legislative Assembly program. The program gives students a special opportunity to learn about the democratic process and Saskatchewan’s history.“This is a unique learning opportunity and experience for these young people that they will remember for a long time to come,” Minister Responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Christine Tell said. “It’s always a pleasure to host bright, young students who are our province’s future and will eventually take on the responsibility of preserving our democracy. Perhaps some of them may even be inspired to become Members of the Legislative Assembly.”
Tell will introduce the students in the House and they will have the chance to observe the daily Question Period.
Following lunch, they will have a rare opportunity to each take a Member’s seat in the Chamber, where they will listen and ask questions during a panel discussion led by Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Corey Tochor.
Other panel participants include Minister Tell, Saskatoon Centre MLA David Forbes, and Clerk of the Legislative Assembly Greg Putz. The students will also be treated to a tour of the Legislative Building.
“Students learn best when they can see for themselves how things operate and speak to politicians first hand,” Consul School teacher Tami Reynolds said. “This opportunity allows rural students to have access to MLAs that they would not normally have and learn first-hand how our government works.”
“Anytime you can be provided an opportunity to see and be a part of something like a visit to the legislature it enhances what students are learning,” Val Marie School Principal Angela Clement said. “This fits so well into our Grade 8 social studies program and may even have an influence on their career choices following high school.”
A Day in the Legislative Assembly has been coordinated by the Provincial Capital Commission since 2012, and is offered twice a year. The next event is planned for spring 2017.
The educational program teaches youth about the history and governance of the province, and inspires pride in Saskatchewan’s capital city of Regina and the province’s historic Legislative Building.
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For more information, contact:
Art Newton
Central Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2215
Email: art.newton@gov.sk.ca