Findlay High Students Gain Hands-On Experience in State Government

Youth & Government delegation spends three days at Ohio Statehouse

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

A group of students from Findlay High School recently traveled to Columbus to participate in the Ohio State Assembly, where they took on roles as legislators, lobbyists, media correspondents, and Supreme Court justices to learn firsthand about the workings of state government. The students spent months preparing through debate practice and service-learning before putting their skills to the test at the Statehouse, discussing issues they are passionate about through civil discourse.

Why it matters

This program provides a valuable opportunity for high school students to gain practical experience in the political process and develop important skills in areas like critical thinking, public speaking, and civil discourse. By immersing themselves in the workings of state government, these students are positioning themselves to become the next generation of engaged and informed civic leaders.

The details

The Findlay High School Youth & Government delegation spent three days at the Ohio Statehouse, where they took on a variety of roles to simulate the workings of state government. Students argued appellate cases, drafted bills, and engaged in discussions on the issues they care about, putting their preparation through debate practice and service-learning to the test.

  • The Findlay High School students traveled to Columbus this past weekend.
  • The Ohio State Assembly program lasted for three days.

The players

Findlay High School

A public high school located in Findlay, Ohio.

Ryan Ponchone

A Findlay High School student who served as a media correspondent during the Ohio State Assembly program.

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What’s next

The Findlay High School students will continue to build on the skills and experiences they gained through the Ohio State Assembly program, preparing to become the next generation of engaged and informed civic leaders.

The takeaway

The Findlay High School Youth & Government program provides students with a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the workings of state government, developing critical skills in areas like critical thinking, public speaking, and civil discourse that will serve them well as they pursue their future goals and aspirations.