KU News Release

LAWRENCE — The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas will host 20 teachers from around the state for the third conference of Kansas government and history high school teachers on Thursday, July 22, and Friday, July 23.

“Research has suggested that students who receive government and civic education are more likely to stay involved in current events, political issues and their communities,” said Barbara Ballard, associate director of the Dole Institute. “This conference will focus on ways teachers can educate students about how they can and why they should participate in their communities and government.”

This year’s theme is Civic Engagement and Election 2010. With the added poignancy of an election year, selected teachers will discuss the significance of young people becoming involved in civic engagement and public service, with a focus on youth voting. To help focus the discussion, the conference will feature a number of presenters, including elected officials, professors and teachers.

“We wanted to host this conference because our youth need to be better prepared to participate in their government and community,” said Bill Lacy, director of the Dole Institute. “The addition of this yearly conference is another way to help us achieve our mission of civic engagement here at the Dole Institute.”

History and government teachers across the state were invited to apply for the opportunity. The Dole Institute provides lodging, meals and transportation reimbursement.

This year’s teacher participants are listed below by hometown and school.

DOUGLAS COUNTY
From Baldwin City 66006
Scott Petry, Lawrence South Junior High School

From Lawrence 66046
Charlotte Anderson, Central Junior High School
Phillip Mitchell, Lawrence Free State High School
Mike Wormsley, Central Junior High School

From Lawrence 66049
Paul Stuewe, Blue Valley West High School (Overland Park)

JOHNSON COUNTY
From Lenexa 66215
Rebecca Anthony, Shawnee Mission Northwest High School

From Lenexa 66620
Justin Adrian, Olathe East High School

From Overland Park 66612
Sheryl Maguire, Shawnee Mission West High School
Greg Smith, Shawnee Mission West High School

RUSSELL COUNTY
From Russell 67665
Nancy Lane, Russell High School

SEWARD COUNTY
From Liberal 67095
Wes Fox, Liberal High School

SHAWNEE COUNTY
From Topeka 66611
Scott Shipman, Washburn Rural High School

From Topeka 66617
Steve Darting, Seaman High School

From Topeka 66618
Randy Crome, Seaman High School