County commissioner, schools launch "Model Manatee" civics program for upper‑grade students

Commissioner Amanda Ballard of Manatee County introduced Model Manatee as a county–school district partnership designed to give 11th and 12th grade students a practical, hands‑on civics education. "Model Manatee is going to be a truly fantastic, partnership and local practical civics education program for 11th and 12th grade students here in Manatee County," Ballard said during the board meeting.

Brent Anderson (Manatee County Government Affairs Office) explained eligibility and the application process: any student who has completed 10th grade and lives in Manatee County may apply, including public, charter, private and homeschool students. Anderson said applications open August 10 at 8:00 a.m. and close August 21 at 3:00 p.m., using the online form at mymanatee.org/modelmanatee; selection materials will include a parent/guardian release, a teacher/administrator recommendation, and short‑answer responses. The program schedule includes classroom lessons on Robert's Rules and county functions, visits to commission workshops and meetings, and a culminating mock county commission staffed by participating students.

County staff said the program aims to broaden civic knowledge, encourage local civic engagement and expose young people to public‑sector careers. Crosley Jones reviewed sample agendas and confirmed that constitutional officers and department leaders are being invited to speak during the program. Board members and district staff expressed support and suggested adding workshop visits and consideration of a student school‑board member rotation tied to the program.