Councilmember Craig Rice is hoping to inspire area high school and middle school students to participate in a contest titled, “Councilmember for a Day Challenge.”
Rice, who serves as the chair of the Council’s Education and Culture Committee, is asking students in grades eighth through twelfth to create a short video that highlights a public policy that is important to them. Students will work in teams of three with an instructor. The winning team members will serve as Councilmember for a Day on Nov. 15.
“Our students are an inspiration, and I look forward to their stories which help us as elected leaders develop policies and initiatives that respond to the needs in our communities,” said Councilmember Rice.
The challenge is open to Montgomery County Public School (MCPS) students in eighth through twelfth grades. The deadline to register is Sept. 20. The program is described in this flyer and students may register for the program at the MCPS website.
This is the seventh “Councilmember for a Day Challenge.” Rice launched the first challenge in 2016 as an essay contest. Last year Rice partnered with Montgomery County Public Schools and Montgomery College to provide afterschool virtual instruction on digital storytelling. Each participant will be provided with a loaner iPad and mentored by a trained instructor on inclusive storytelling through digital journalism to produce a video on a public policy issue. The winners of the contest will attend a Council breakfast, receive a Council proclamation, serve as an honorary Councilmember for a Day on Nov 15, and receive prizes.
Important Dates:
- Student Registration Deadline: Sept. 20
- Instructor Sessions: Sept. 14, 15, 19, and 22 from 3:30 – 5:00 (Zoom)
- Student Sessions: Sept. 26 – Oct. 28
- VOICES Video Submission Deadline: Oct. 31
- Virtual Showcase/Film Festival: Nov. 9
- Winner Serves as Councilmember for a Day: Nov. 15
Last year, Allison Fan submitted the winning video advocating for more comprehensive education on eating disorders. Fan’s video provided important information about eating disorders amongst youth.
“All of the students’ video submissions were impressive and made the selection of the top five videos very difficult,” said Councilmember Rice. “Allison’s video was particularly compelling both in her inspiring message and incorporating creative production skills she learned during the program. Her passion shined through in her video.”
2021 Councilmember for a Day Winner – Healthy Eating Disorders
