Two Heartland Juniors were chosen to share the HeartlandBeat Student of the Month–Bailey Carr and Allison Braun. They both applied and were accepted to participate in Cornhusker Girls State to be held in Lincoln June 2-8. “Girls State is a once in a lifetime opportunity for students to network with fellow Nebraskans and learn how to be a productive citizen of our state and nation,†said Heartland Counselor Mrs. Koehler.
They both are excited about the opportunity to learn more about how government works at Girls State that takes place at the University of Nebraska campus. “I’m more of a math and science person, and I’ve never really given much thought to government. But I think it will be good for me to learn how it works through this program,†said Carr.
Both girls will find out what is expected from them when they attend an orientation in Wilbur next Sunday. “I’m excited that two of our juniors are willing to set aside a week of their summer to develop their leadership skills which will directly benefit themselves, their school, and their community,” said Koehler.
“Summer is very busy with my commitment to the team sports I am involved in, but I think it is worth the sacrifice to learn how to be a better leader for my school and teams,†said Braun. She is also involved in FBLA, FFA, choir, Art Club, and Science Club besides participating in volleyball, basketball and track. Carr participates in these three sports as well and is in choir, band, FBLA, FFA, and Science Club.
Participants are also eligible to apply for a college scholarship, but it must be completed prior to Girls State. Carr has started working on the application and hopes to have a chance at receiving some scholarship funds through the program.
During their week at Girls State, they will be divided up into members of eight towns and will spend the week setting up their own mini government, holding primary and general elections. They will get to tour the Nebraska Capitol building, hear an address from Governor Heineman, have a joint session with the Boys State, and tour the Nebraska National Guard.
Congratulations to Carr and Braun for representing Heartland at Girls State and being named this month’s HeartlandBeat Student(s) of the Month!
Written by Shannon Siebert
