Pass Road Elementary Learns About Local Government

In honor of Tuesday’s midterm elections, Pass Road Elementary School has been teaching students about the government. Fifth grade students have been campaigning all month and holding their own elections.

Thursday, at their Political Career Day, Gulfport Mayor, Billy Hewes, received a key to the school from the newly elected 5th grade mayor. Students participated in debates and actually voted on their own ballots. Thursday, students heard from the Mayor, city officials, and State Representative Greg Haney. The school’s administration wants to stress the importance of teaching students about the country’s judicial system.

Jonathan Dill, Principal of Pass Road Elementary, says, "They see the Mayor, they see representatives, but to actually have the chance to ask questions and just get the information of how they’re elected and what they need to do to get to one of these positions is just a great opportunity for us to have here."

Thursday’s Political Career Day is part of Gulfport’s career awareness program to encourage students to stay in school and create goals to find success in their future careers.