Ms. Tilp’s Advanced Placement Government visited the Roundhouse today. We had a special treat and were honored to meet outgoing Governor Richardson and get to talk with him for about 5 minutes. Governor Richardson explained the value and importance of our democratic government. “What is important is that you guys need to participate in a democracy…because government effects your lives alot.” Yes, that is Governor Richardson in the middle!
Our trip encompassed a tour of the Legislative Chamber and talk by Trish Lopez of the NM Film Office about opportunities for students to take part in the development of film in New Mexico by becoming part of this flourishing industry and its attractive jobs and careers. Also, we learned from Eric Witt, Deputy to the Governor for Economic Development, also a native New Mexican, who explained about economic growth industries in New Mexico and the forecast for the legislative agenda under Governor-elect Susannah Martinez.New Mexico is one of two citizen’s legislatures in the US, meaning average citizens take on the role of legislators. It is in a beautiful building called the Roundhouse and in addition to the business that goes on there, the artwork is nonpareil as can be seen in this buffalo head made entirely from recycled materials collected from all over the state.
I structured my lesson around comparing federal, state and tribal government. I asked the students what they learned and they enthusiastically agree that a field trip accompanied by appropriate reading, curiosity and engagement on the structure of government peeks their curiosity, stimulates their interest and makes them better learners and citizens.
