Monticello, NY – A group of approximately 30 Sullivan West high-schoolers spent much of Thursday, November 16 learning about the people and offices who serve them.
“We were happy to facilitate a field trip so that local teens could better understand the important tasks Sullivan County government undertakes every day – and the important role they can play in accomplishing those tasks,” explained Youth Services Manager Kristen Kitson, who oversees the Sullivan County Youth Bureau. “They came to ask questions and engage with leaders, something we want to offer to all our school districts and their high school students.”
The day kicked off with Legislature meetings, where teens learned in real time how resolutions are discussed and passed in committee. That was followed by insights from Legislature Vice Chair Mike Brooks, County Treasurer Nancy Buck, Deputy County Attorney Tom Cawley, Commissioner of Jurors Deanna Armbrust-Cruz and Information Technology Services Director of Application Development and Support Andrew McCabe.
“I was very impressed with how attentive these high-schoolers were,” noted Buck. “They seemed truly interested in what we had to say and how they can be a part of County government. I welcome future visits like these, especially since some of these young people may one day be working in and running local government.”
The Youth Bureau will be hosting Eldred Junior-Senior High School students in December, and Kitson encourages other area school districts to contact her to set up a visit: 845-807-0394 or Kristen.kitson2@sullivanny.us.