Indiana 4-H Day at the Statehouse

                On Tuesday, 16 Montgomery County 4-H members joined hundreds of fellow Indiana 4-H members from across the state for Indiana 4-H Day at the Statehouse. This event is a civic engagement opportunity during with 7^th – 12^th grade 4-H members learn about our state government.

                4-H members participated in breakout sessions, received a tour of the statehouse, and much more. Our Montgomery County 4-H members spent part of the afternoon meeting with State Representative Beau Baird. Baird took the time to answer their questions and provide great information. This day was extra special as House Bill 1660 (authored by Representative Baird) passed unanimously out of the House Education Committee before passing the full House. It now moves to the Senate for further consideration. This bill would allow youth to participate in 4-H and FFA events, up to six times per school year, without being penalized with unexcused absences (as long as that individual was in good academic standing).

                Other highlights from the day include Hudson Beach being selected to serve as a Page for the day and a few members getting to meet Governor Mike Braun. We are also so proud of Lennon Woods who is serving as an Indiana 4-H Ambassador this year and helped with organizing this event. There are so many great opportunities like this one offered through the 4-H program. If you have a child or know of a family friend that would be interested in the 4-H program, please encourage them to enroll. 4-H enrollment is still open! To enroll, visit https://v2.4honline.com. Have questions? Contact the Extension office at (765)364-6363 or e-mail [email protected].

Abby Morgan is the4-H Youth Development Extension Educator for Purdue Extension Montgomery County