HCPS students to get insight into Henrico’s government, school operations

Student Government Day event returns after COVID-19 suspension

Henrico County high school students will get a firsthand look at their county government and school system operations when Student Government Day returns April 27-28 following a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For the 63rd Student Government Day, 93 students from Henrico’s nine public high schools, The Academy at Virginia Randolph and the Henrico Virtual Academy are scheduled to shadow elected and appointed officials – including members of the Board of Supervisors and the School Board, county manager, Henrico County Public Schools superintendent, constitutional officers and judges – to learn about their roles and responsibilities.

“Henrico County is thrilled to bring back Student Government Day after a two-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” County Manager John A. Vithoulkas said. “This event allows many of our bright high school students to immerse themselves in the issues and decisions that impact our residents and businesses every day. It’s a proud tradition that highlights the tremendous partnership between our general government and Henrico County Public Schools.”

Student Government Day was first held in 1958 and was long supported by the Kiwanis clubs of North Richmond, Tuckahoe and Greater Richmond. This year’s event will begin with an investiture at 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 27 in the auditorium of Hermitage High School, 8301 Hungary Spring Road. With the help of Henrico’s Circuit judges, 33 students will recite the oaths of office as if they were being sworn into their positions.

Students who are matched with general government officials will report to work at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, April 28. The day will include opportunities to learn how various departments function and will conclude with a simulated work session of the Board of Supervisors at 12:30 p.m. in the County Manager’s Conference Room and a simulated regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors at 2 p.m. in the Board Room of the Henrico Government Center, 4301 E. Parham Road.

In the meetings, students will have opportunities to discuss and debate local issues as if they were officially in the roles of elected and appointed officials.

The Board of Supervisors will take no official action as part of its participation in Student Government Day. Members of the media are welcome to provide news coverage of the investiture and other activities of Student Government Day.

 
Google Translate Icon

Translate