Monday would have been a normal day for a township committee meeting, but things were different on Oct. 17 as students from the district middle school participated in the Youth in Government initiative.
Six members of the school’s student council played the roles of the township committee’s five members, as well as the township administrator.
“Township records indicate that this program has been coordinated since 1994,” said Public Information Officer Eric Shubiger. “The program is a partnership with the Cinnaminson board of education. The school district has chosen to utilize the middle-school student council, as it is part of their curriculum.”
Though the students played committee members, the meeting still focused on a shorter agenda that included one public-hearing ordinance and three resolutions. Parents, family and friends packed the township municipal building for the session.
“The students seem to really enjoy the experience,” Schubiger said. “During the business day, the students visit township offices and learn about the various functions of municipal government.
“The program represents a great partnership between Cinnaminson Township Committee and the Cinnaminson board of education as it focuses on the importance of public service and civic engagement,” Schubiger added.
Cinnaminson coordinates the Youth in Government initiative each October for the township committee’s meeting of the month, and it continues to be a success for both the municipality and – most important – the students involved. The initiative is expected to be repeated next year.
