March 9, 2012, Lincoln— Many legislative proposals affect education in our state. Understanding the views of students, parents and educators in District 2 helps me to vote responsibly. Since January I have participated in many  events aimed at providing information about specific initiatives and educational needs in general. These activities are interesting and beneficial to me as a state senator.

Some of the most enjoyable experiences I have as a state senator come from my interaction with students. In January I attended a graduation ceremony in the district for D.A.R.E - the highly acclaimed program that gives young people the skills they need to avoid drugs and violence. The Nebraska Library Association providessenators with a new book for their hometown library. I was pleased to present the book I received to the Plattsmouth Library, where I read to a delightful group ofchildren earlier this month.

Last month I visited with District 2 families who came to Lincoln for Home School Day at the Capitol. This week I welcomed school groups from Eagle Elementary and Hayward Elementary in Nebraska City. My staff reports that fourth grade classes from across the state will visit the Capitol through the end of the school year. The Nebraska Department of Education requires that, by fourth grade, students in our public schools will have studied Nebraska history, civics and government. A tour of the Capitol and the chance to visit the legislature enhances classroom learning. The legislature supports the state’s fourth grade curriculum with a publication entitled Unicam Kids. I am pleased to provide this book to all of the elementary students who visit the home of their state government.

District 3 Senator Scott Price and I recently hosted a discussion about the Nebraska Legislature with ASSE exchange students from Germany, France, Italy and Sweden. These students, like most of the high school and college students who visit the legislature, want to learn about the legislative process, or advocate for or against policy issues. I received information about two upcoming events, both of which offer opportunities for students to develop and practice advocacy skills.

High school students can take on the role of state senators at the Unicameral Youth Legislature on June 10-13. Student senators gather at the Capitol to sponsor bills, conduct hearings, debate legislation and discover the unique process of the nation’s only unicameral legislature. The Unicameral Youth Legislature gives behind-the-scenes access to students, who have an interest in public office, government, politics, law, public policy, debate or public speaking. Students learn about the legislature directly from staff and senators. State senators often address the students at this conference and find that the young people who attend the event are eager to learn and discuss new ideas.

The Legislature’s website at www.nebraskalegislature.gov/education/unicamyouth.php provides information about this program. Early bird registration is available until April 15. The registration deadline for the 2012 Unicameral Youth Legislature is May 15.

The Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute (NAYI) is celebrating its 41st anniversary in 2012. NAYI offers high school students an opportunity to learn about the agricultural industry, develop leadership skills, and practice critical thinking and decision-making at a summer program in Lincoln. This year the dates for the Institute are July 9-13.

The NAYI is coordinated by the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council (NAYC). The Council includes 18 college-age men and women, who are selected to educate Nebraska high school students about the importance of the agricultural industry to our state. This year NAYC member Melissa Keyes, a District 2 constituent from Springfield, is one of two head counselors.

If you are a high school junior or senior this year, the NAYI can provide you with an opportunity to make a difference in agriculture. Applications are now available on-line at www.agr.ne.gov/nayi The registration deadline for the 2012 Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute is April 15.