Wagner to Girls State

Freddie Wagner, a junior at Hanna, Elk Mountain, Medicine Bow (HEM) High School was selected to go to Girls State by the American Legion Auxiliary of Medicine Bow.

"We go to the community college in Cheyenne and we get to learn more about our government in United States and Wyoming," Wagner said. "We are going to be able to go to government official houses and get a real taste of how it all works."

Wagner said she has wanted to go to Girls State since was a little girl.

"I am really excited about this," Wagner said. "Growing up on the ranch, my grandmother and I used to talk politics, so I think it is going to be an eye opening opportunity to learn more about how government works."

When selected to go this event, students typically engage in a number of political activities such as running for office, electing officials, drafting and debating bills, and making motions.

There are lectures and workshops for students to fully immerse themselves in government and politics. A majority of programs divide their participants into two political parties, Nationalists and Federalists.

Each political party establishes an official party platform voted on by its members. Participants are elected to a variety of offices including House of Representatives and Senate seats, executive offices.

Participants also run for city and county offices such as mayor, county clerk, municipal judge and town council members.

"It is such a great opportunity for anybody who wants to go because they offer scholarships and the experience is worthwhile," Wagner said.

Wagner is vice president of her FFA chapter, vice president of the HEM student council and president of her class.

"I am involved in quite a lot of stuff," Wagoner said. "And going to this will be one more thing in my toolbox."

Wagner is proud to be the only girl picked from HEM.

"I encourage any student to try and go to this," Wagner concluded.