Kamari Ezquerra and Caroline Bleakley
11 minutes ago
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — West Technical Career and Academy students are heading to the nation's capital to compete in the “We The People” competition. They hope to represent Nevada and, more importantly, Las Vegas at this weekend's national tournament.
This is just the fourth time in a quarter century that a team from Southern Nevada has competed in this prestigious tournament. The students there will be conducting something like a Congressional hearing, and they have been preparing their case all year long.
Since classes began in August, the students have been working on books and “sharpening” all of their government and history knowledge, said senior Kaylee Jaquish. They thoroughly study the Constitution, research Supreme Court precedents, analyze current events, and are currently making final preparations.
“I learned a lot through my research, and I really enjoy the opportunity to learn more about various SCOTUS cases,” said Jaquish. “I learned a lot about the different political issues that are going on right now. And I think it's really important to be familiar with the issues that are going on, especially within the state of Nevada.”
Senior Katherine Grimm said that although she does not plan to pursue a career in political science, the program has prepared her to become an active participant in a democratic society.
“I think I've learned some really important skills for life in general,” Grimm said. “I'm about to turn 18 and I'm going to vote, and I think this class really helped me build a foundation of really important knowledge that I need to know as an American citizen.”
Upon arrival in Washington, D.C., students will be briefed and then cross-examined by sitting judges, attorneys, and legal experts. But a trip to Washington DC isn't just about work. While on the East Coast, students will also have the opportunity to plan and enjoy visiting all the must-see attractions in the capital, including the Constitution, which they “know like the back of their hand.”
The We the People national convention will be held on Saturday, April 12th in Washington, DC. Senior Government and “We the People” students are trying to bring victory back to Southern Nevada, with the main goal of defeating Reno. They are also asking for community support. You can donate to help with their costs by visiting this link.
