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YIG students advocate for library funding at State Capitol

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On Tuesday, February 3, the WVHS Youth in Government (YIG) program joined librarians from the Ramapo Catskill Library System for the New York Library Association’s annual Library Advocacy Day at the State Capitol in Albany, NY.

Middle and high school members of the program -- joined by advisors Kevan Ottochian and Jereme Safier as well as chaperone Scott Meyer -- rallied with librarians to secure funding for libraries and other educational endeavors. 

The YIG team met with Assemblyman Karl Brabenec and Senator James Skoufis to discuss the budget process and its impact on library funding. Students also had the chance to interact with the Chief of Staffs from Assemblyman Maher's and Skoufis' offices. Not only did students advocate for libraries, but state legislators also shared new initiatives to expand the library’s community outreach and possible future collaborations with the YIG program.

Furthermore, the group spent some time on the floor of the New York State Assembly. Thanks to Assemblyman Brabnec, students were to learn more about how the Assembly works on an average day, ask questions related to the bill-making process and more!

Besides the politicians and staffers, the Sargent of Arms and fellow security officers applauded the group’s civic efforts. They also had the opportunity to join librarians and other community stakeholders for a peaceful rally in the Capitol. 

Since the early 2000s, under then Advisor Mr. Scott Meyer, the lobbying trip continues to be monumental for providing members the opportunity to participate in democracy and forge a positive impact on our community. The WVHS YIG program looks forward to continuing to advocate for libraries.

"The WVHS Youth in Government Program remains committed and dedicated to its efforts to nurture life-long learners and leaders due to the ongoing support from WVHS and WVMS administrations, the Board of Education and the district administration," Mr. Ottochian said.

Mr. Ottochian and Mr. Safier strongly encourage all students to join the award-winning program – Google Classroom code: bukyr6t. No experience and/or government knowledge is required.

If you’re looking to learn more about how the government works, meet your elected representatives, and work on life skills while having fun with your classmates, the Youth in Government program is the best place for that and more.

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A group of people, mostly young women, are gathered in what appears to be a courtroom or legislative chamber, with ornate wooden furniture and red carpeting visible in the background.
A large group of people, mostly young adults, gathered together in what appears to be a classroom or office setting, with a tiled ceiling and walls visible in the background.