Most students use summer vacation to rest and recuperate before school opens again in August or September. However for Mara MacLean, a Notre Dame Prep senior, summer included a weeklong stint learning about state government as part of the Michigan American Legion Auxiliary "Girls State" program. The event, held every year at Michigan State University, is for high school girls and provides real-world simulation of local and state government in Michigan, including mock elections to state government offices. MacLean won her election to the Michigan attorney general's office over a candidate from Houghton High School.
To be eligible for Girls State, students must have just completed their junior year of high school and be returning to complete their senior year. It is held each summer in every state but Hawaii. The objective, according to organizers, is to provide “hands-on” training in the management of a democratic government at the city, county and state levels. Topics such as the structure of the various levels of government, simulated legislation, two-party politics, and the workings of various government offices are covered. The program offers training in the practical processes of self government and good citizenship as practiced in a democratic society.
Below, MacLean eloquently recounts her summer experience at Girls State.
"When I attended Michigan American Legion Auxiliary Girls State, a government simulation program, I was elected to the state-wide position of attorney general after many speeches and interviews. My position required me to defend the state in any trials brought to them as well as presiding in the governor’s cabinet. Between cases, the governor’s budgetary needs, and my looming 'court trial,' I was pretty stressed out! However, I was able to become very familiar with the Girls State Government Manual considering I had to use it word-for-word to defend the state in certain trials. I learned all about the different levels of city and state governments, the judicial system and state funding. I was fortunate enough to both make tax plans and fight off greedy city councils.
ND Prep senior Mara MacLean
"Throughout the week my pride in the American system of government expanded. Girls State helped me learn what it means to be a good citizen, a respectful American, but most importantly an active member of society. As I stood on the steps of the capitol building, hearing my name called out across the spacious lawn, I realized that I have the power to make a difference in my hometown.
"This idea appeals to me because my parents actively exposed me to the amazing culture and art that belongs to Michigan. Living in the metro Detroit area, trips downtown were frequent in my family and my love for the down-on-its-luck city started at a young age. As I entered my teenage years, I truly recognized all the richness Detroit has whether at the DIA, cool coffeehouses in midtown, or the once hallowed ground of Tiger Stadium. I love Detroit, and now with the knowledge and experience I gained at Girls State, I can help it back to its feet. I can make Detroit what it once was. I will see it grow while standing right in the center.
"Now I am armed with confidence and knowledge to save my beloved city. Whether I follow my dreams into the business world or pursue a political career, I have the skills and understanding of Michigan’s government to have my ideas heard and make my small actions have a large impact. I am so thankful for my sponsor and my school for allowing me to take advantage of this opportunity. I hope NDP continues to send girls to take part in this amazing program. I strongly, strongly suggest it!"
Michigan state capitol photo by: Brian Charles Watson
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About Notre Dame Preparatory School and Marist Academy
Notre Dame Preparatory School and Marist Academy is a private, Catholic, independent, coeducational day school located in Oakland County. The school's upper division enrolls students in grades nine through twelve and has been named one of the nation's best 50 Catholic high schools (Acton Institute) four times since 2005. Notre Dame's middle and lower divisions enroll students in jr. kindergarten through grade eight. All three divisions are International Baccalaureate "World Schools." NDPMA is conducted by the Marist Fathers and Brothers and is accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States and the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement. For more on Notre Dame Preparatory School and Marist Academy, visit the school's home page at www.ndpma.org.