Three Sanford Middle School students recently participated in the prestigious Girls' Day at the State House event in Augusta on April 29th. Xyla Kurz, Jay Bouley-Capprotta, and Sophia Guy joined other nominated girls from across Maine for this special educational opportunity.
The program included both online preparatory sessions and a full day of in-person activities at the State House. Participants learned about the legislative process, including how bills become laws, and had valuable opportunities to speak with elected officials, policy professionals, activists, and organizers.
"I really liked getting to know some other peoples thoughts on why or why not we should have high schools start later and just learn new things," said Sophia Guy about her experience. "I met a lot of leaders I would never have met!"
The students appreciated the virtual portion as well. "We got to kind of know some of the people that were also going to be there and some of the group leaders that were going to be there ahead of time," Guy said.
According to School Counselor Ms. Quartararo, "These girls were chosen through nominations from their teachers and staff at SMS. It was an impressive honor to be chosen and then of course they followed through with their leadership qualities during the virtual meetings and the powerful in-person day at the capitol. They made us all proud."
The Girls' Day at the State House program provides young women with insights into government and leadership while fostering connections with peers and mentors across the state.