DVS Students Attend The Youth & Government’s Model Legislature and Court in Sacramento
Over President’s Day weekend, 28 Da Vinci Science students embarked on a transformative journey at Youth & Government’s Model Legislature and Court program. This four-day event, which drew over 2,000 students from across the state, provided a platform for young minds to debate bills, create proposals, and argue significant issues that affect our state and country. As students assumed the roles of legislators and advocates, they were tasked with researching, writing, and presenting on various topics ranging from education and healthcare to environmental protection and civil rights.
One of the highlights of the program was the opportunity for students to participate in mock court cases, where they argued legal issues based on real-world scenarios. This not only tested their knowledge of the law but also challenged them to think critically and creatively to find solutions to complex problems. Here are some Da Vinci highlights over the weekend:
- Nick Alvarez named Media Delegate of the Year!
- Miriam Johnson awarded Exemplary Appellate Attorney, from over 200 delegates in the program area!
- Camila Gomez and her Respondent team in Appellate Court won their court case!
- Awishkar Sherstha, Lucia Moreno, and Shawn Park’s budget proposal passed and signed by the Youth Governor!
- Phong Nguyen, Jamie Rigor and Chiagozie Offokansi’s separate bills were passed by both chambers in the Forum program!
- Con Con delegates Audrey Miller, Ellaina Kimura, Adrian Luna and Alex Zakrzewski were able to collect over 100 signatures and create five proposals towards the California Constitution!
- Sol Jordan successfully argued our Delegation’s bill in committee and ran the Queer Caucus as the Chair for the last three years!
- Andrew Charney, Sofia Gallardo and William Park’s $5 million health proposal was accepted and funded by the California Investment Bank!
- ALL delegates worked incredibly hard, forged new friendships and came away proud of themselves and each other.
The impact of the program extended far beyond the four days in Sacramento. The Youth & Government program exemplifies the power of education to transform lives and empower young people to become agents of change. It provides a platform for students to engage with the world around them, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and activism. As our students return to our community, they carry with them not only memories of a remarkable experience but also the skills and inspiration to make a positive impact on our world.
