Back to school in the 3rd District

The month of August means it is time for students and teachers across the Third District to prepare for a new school year. Planning new lessons, meeting new classmates, and readjusting to the school schedule are just a few of the transitions which will be faced in the coming days. It is an exciting time of year. As the back-to-school season begins, I wanted to update you on the opportunities and services my office provides for students, teachers, and parents.

Throughout the year, I regularly meet with students of all ages throughout Nebraska and in Washington, D.C. As students ask questions and share their ideas, it is clear the quality of Nebraska's youth is impressive and their futures are bright. To harness this energy and gain insight from these students, I formed a Youth Advisory Council. This group provides a forum to discuss the concerns of young Nebraskans and how they can help their local communities, while also offering the opportunity for me to hear their thoughts on issues facing the federal government.

Membership is open to high school students nominated by their teachers, principals, or guidance counselors. For more information about the Youth Advisory Council, interested students should contact their guidance counselor, call my Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, or visit my website at http://adriansmith.house.gov.

College-aged Nebraskans have the opportunity to experience the legislative process through an internship in my Washington, D.C. or district offices. These internships provide invaluable work experience for students interested in public policy. Interns have the opportunity to serve in a variety of capacities -- from conducting legislative research to attending briefings with policymakers and constituents. For more information about internships, students should visit http://adriansmith.house.gov or call any of my offices.

In addition to information about internships and the Youth Advisory Council, my website includes an extensive section designed to help Nebraska students of all grade levels learn more about American history and the U.S. government. There are also pages for teachers interested in resources for lesson plans and learning activities.

The website also shares more about how my office can assist schools, classes, or families in planning a visit to our nation's capital. If you are coming to the Washington, D.C. area, I can help arrange a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building and provide information about other sites. Please contact the office at (202) 225-6435 or log on to my website to request a tour online, and I will do all I can to help make sure your trip is educational and enjoyable.

Whether or not they participate in opportunities provided by my office, students across the Third District must be challenged to become active, responsible members of their communities. Each day Congress deals with major issues which impact people of all ages. Students have a stake at what is happening in Washington, D.C., so their participation is important and needed. I am confident the young people across Nebraska will continue to help lead our great state and nation to brighter days ahead.

For more information about opportunities available for students, the latest developments in Congress, or to sign up for my e-mail newsletter, please visit my website at http://adriansmith.house.gov.