Government takeover peaceful, educational

This is the 57th year the school has held Civics Day.
By PEGGY SINKOVICH
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
GIRARD -- One day out of the year Girard High School students get to take city matters into their own hands.
During the district's 57th annual Civics Day, students showed that they had learned the essentials of government: They argued, took potshots, and postponed action on controversial matters during a mock city council meeting.
"If we are going to pass a law to ban cell phone use in the city are we going to ban people from putting make-up on while driving?" asked student Mayor Lewis Starr.
Amanda Archer, student council president, said, "No, just cell phones," moments before recommending council put off acting on the matter.
Dave Johnson, a student council member, found out it's not easy getting approval for money.
"Our police cruisers are 10 years old and have lots of miles on them," Johnson said. "We really need to replace them." He also said potholes in the streets further damage the vehicles.
Instead of giving positive feedback, his fellow council members told him the officers need to do more on patrol and learn how to avoid potholes.
Government study
The students, who were elected by their classmates last month, spent time researching city government and learning from current Girard officials.
"I'm really proud of our students," said Reynald Paolone, Girard Council president and a high school social studies teacher. "They did a lot of work to prepare for this and they did an outstanding job."
Most of the city's elected officials attended the mock meeting.
"Many of us took off work to attend because we feel it's very important," said Councilman John Moliterno. "This gets our young people involved in the community and it shows them what government does."
"Many of our young people become very interested and often give us good suggestions about improving the city," Moliterno said. "Some even decide to volunteer. It's a great program."