Students from Student Leadership Johns Creek boarded a bus early recently heading to Atlanta to learn more about their state government and how it affects them directly in Johns Creek.
First stop was at the Georgia Department of Revenue where Commissioner Lynne Riley spoke to the students about what the Department of Revenue’s role in Georgia is and the many facets of what her office controls including illegal drugs and alcohol control and the handling of revenue generated from the taxation of citizens and businesses. The highlight of the visit was meeting Officer Sid, the drug enforcement dog who primarily works at the Atlanta airport – Sid is always a hit with the students! The next stop was the Fulton County Jail where Sheriff Ted Jackson spoke to the students about what happens at the jail, which included a tour of the facility. To round out the judicial aspect of state government the students headed to the Judicial Department and watched a trial in progress and met with Superior Court Judge Craig Schwall. Judge Schwall spoke to the students about how important it was to have a good support system and the role a good education plays in society. The students then met with Commissioner Liz Hausmann for a working lunch. Commissioner Hausmann spoke to them about the recent election and how Fulton County has been planning for nearly two years to host the NFL Super Bowl in February.
The last stop on the day-long Government Day was at the State Capitol where Mr. Roger Wise, a local civic leader, gave the students a personal tour of this magnificent building, a special session was in progress, which was a distinct treat to actually see the work that takes place in the building on behalf of the citizens of Georgia. Representative Scott Hilton met with the SLJC’s Secretary of State Ambassadors and gave them a behind the scenes tour of the House chambers.
The bus ride back to Johns Creek was filled with conversations of what was the most impactful part of the day and each student seemed to have a different opinion. This lesson in state government is one that Student Leadership Johns Creek does each year and it is always a highlight of the two-year program.
Student Leadership Johns Creek is a two-year leadership program that involves student leaders from all 4 Johns Creek High Schools. Applications are currently being accepted for the next class through January 31, 2019. More information about Student Leadership Johns Creek can be found at Student Leadership Johns Creek.
