Northeast Kingdom Learning Services (NEKLS) recently had the honor of participating in the Adult Education and Literacy Day at the State House on February 29, 2024, in Montpelier, Vermont. This significant event marked a proud moment for NEKLS, as 19 of our students, along with 7 staff members and a board member from three of our five learning centers, took an active role in this empowering initiative.
The event focused on encouraging student advocacy and engagement in the legislative process, a cornerstone of NEKLS’s educational philosophy. The day’s highlight was a moving testimony given by one of our own students, Finley Lemieux, who addressed the House Education Committee. Finley’s words powerfully illustrated the crucial role of educational resources and support in shaping individual futures, reflecting NEKLS’s unwavering dedication to empowering our learners.
Beyond providing testimony, our students had a unique chance to engage directly with local representatives and even meet with the Lieutenant Governor. These interactions were invaluable, giving our students a platform to share their stories, ask important questions, and gain a richer understanding of how the legislative process directly influences education and community development.
The visit to the historic State House was not just a tour but a journey through Vermont’s rich political heritage. Our students delved into the importance of civic engagement and how it helps shape the state’s future, an understanding crucial for developing informed, active citizens.
NEKLS is deeply committed to initiatives like Adult Education and Literacy Day. By fostering opportunities for student involvement and civic education, we aim to nurture a sense of agency and responsibility in our learners. As future leaders and community contributors, our students left the State House more aware, inspired, and ready to make a positive impact in their communities.