On Tuesday, April 23, San Bernardino County celebrated Government Day hosted by District 5 Superintendent Joe Baca Jr., welcoming students from Colton Unified School District and Rialto Unified School District to a live board meeting tour. The event featured engaging presentations and face-to-face interactions with representatives from county administration, legislative affairs, and human resources, highlighting the importance of local government in strengthening communities.
“These students are our future and will one day run for office and serve in our county. By inviting them to the Government Center, we want to introduce them to the great opportunities our county has to offer.” “I think so,” Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. said. We want them to know that they are the future of our community. ”
Diana Alexander, deputy executive officer for the San Bernardino County Executive, emphasized: They are now attending school to learn how to be part of our society. I hope today's experience will ignite a passion for public service and inspire you to bring your innovative ideas and skills to make our county-wide vision a reality,'' Alexander said.
“It's important to let young people know they have a say in legislation that can have a significant impact on the prosperity of their communities,” said County Legislator Megan Kidwell.
Mr. Jose Mancila, Director of the County Human Resources Office, reflected on the importance of youth involvement in local government, saying: It is vital that local governments understand what they can do for themselves and the opportunities they have. ”
After the day's activities, students took time to reflect on what they had learned and share their insights and ideas.
Rialto student Andrew Boyd found it an eye-opening day. Sharing about that day got him thinking about a career where he could help improve communities like parks and neighborhoods.
The County of San Bernardino and Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. are committed to inspiring the next generation so that today's students can become tomorrow's leaders and innovators in their communities.