Teen Pact Leadership Academy

I was granted permission from my school to attend a leadership academy at our State Capitol for an entire week. The leadership academy is for students wanting to know more about our government and impact our country. I heard from House Representatives and Senators; watched them in session; wrote and argued my own bill. The academy placed us in the roles of law makers and provided us with the opportunity to understand our U.S. political system. I was nominated to run for the Leadership Academy Senator position, but in the end I did not receive enough votes and had to accept defeat graciously. I learned more in this one week then I did the entire semester in high school government class. Books can only do so much. Yes, our political system is flawed and at times frustrating. I'm glad to know there are people out there wanting to give students a 'real' chance at success. If our schools were built to resembled banks, courts, congress, kitchens, offices, etc., we all would be better prepared for adulthood and its responsibilities. Imagine, students being prepared to make a difference in our society before graduation. One speaker told us 98% of the U.S. population does not know about our political system or how to get involved. I was given a t-shirt which says "Ignorance is No Excuse/Conquer Your Dreams. I am glad to say I am now part of the 2% and plan to make a difference...but that's High School.