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Burke County High student asks board to back new GCCE ‘Engage’ chapter
Summary
A Burke County High School student described the Georgia Center for Civic Engagement’s ‘Engage’ program to the board and urged broader student participation, saying the program builds civic knowledge and leadership skills.
Carlos Burnett, a student at Burke County High School, told the Burke County Board of Education on Aug. 19 that he wants the district to support a Georgia Center for Civic Engagement (GCCE) chapter at the school. “Every vote counts,” Burnett said, summarizing what he learned from a state capital visit and a Model UN-style activity.
The presentation described Engage as a statewide GCCE program with more than 100 chapters in over 80 counties that offers Model UN, youth assembly, career expos and mock elections to teach civic responsibility and government-related careers. Burnett, who said the activities changed his view of civic participation, told the board that many students “feel unheard and unseen” and that Engage helps develop research, communication and leadership skills.
Why it matters: Board members and staff often weigh extracurricular approvals against schedules, transportation and supervision needs; programs that build civic skills can influence college applications, school partnerships and future curriculum planning. Burnett said the proposed chapter would include partnerships with local leaders such as the Williamsville mayor and city council to create community engagement opportunities for students.
Details from the presentation: Burnett described touring the state capital, writing and debating mock legislation, and visiting historical sites related to colonial and Native American history. He credited teachers and staff including “Dr. C. Brooks,” “Mr. Higgs,” “Ms. Green” and “Ms. Avery” (as named in the presentation) for supporting his participation. He said the GCCE experiences helped him consider future education plans.
Board response and next steps: The board did not take an immediate formal vote to sponsor or fund a chapter during the meeting. Burnett’s presentation was heard during the presentations portion of the agenda; the transcript records appreciation from the board and a request to share the students’ experience more broadly so other students might become interested. The school’s staff and administration would need to supply any formal proposal, supervision plan and budget for board consideration if the chapter moves forward.
Closing note: The presentation highlighted student demand for civic learning experiences; any formal district support would require staff follow-up on supervision, scheduling and resource needs before an official board commitment.
