Russell County launches paid NextGen civics club; students take on mock county roles

Russell County Judge Executive Randy Martin introduced the county’s first NextGen civics club at a Russell County Court session held at Russell County High School, saying the program will place students in mock county roles and give them hands‑on experience in local government.

The club will let students serve in positions such as student judge, county attorney, clerk representative and treasurer, and participating students can earn up to $3,000 through courthouse internships, Martin said in remarks introducing the program.

The club’s student officers spoke about their goals. Madison Price, elected student judge, said the role will help her “gain information and education about my county government.” Alexis Chandler, the club’s student county attorney, told attendees that one reason she joined was the chance to be heard: “you do have a voice when you’re in this club.” Student clerk representative Aution described plans to bridge county services and the student body, and student county attorney Sydney Gia said the position will give her a view of how county government works.

Judge Martin and other officials framed the club as a paid civic‑education internship and a recruitment tool for future public servants. The club leaders urged eligible students to register and participate in elections; club remarks included a reminder about Kentucky’s primary registration deadline and upcoming primary dates mentioned during the meeting.

The court moved from the student demonstration into routine business after the presentations. Officials said the club will continue to participate in board meetings and other county activities, and the county plans to provide additional information through school teachers about how students can join.

The NextGen civics club is being presented as a recurring hands‑on learning opportunity intended to connect classroom civics to county operations and encourage youth participation in local government.