As part of the Trust for Representative Democracy's civic education campaign, NCSL introduced the program in 1999, as a one-day event, to provide a contemporary approach for engaging the American student population in understanding the value of democracy. It was a great success and was enthusiastically received by both legislators and schools. The program was so productive and compelling that it was expanded into a one-week event in 2001 and a year long program in 2005. Every year, more than 1,300 state lawmakers visit an estimated 320,000 students in their classrooms.

Legislative leaders in each state have appointed state legislative coordinators who are responsible for developing and implementing state specific plans. Coordinators serve as liaisons with NCSL, assist in the distribution of materials and help evaluate the program. The program has received wide support from premier education associations and organizations.

Publication and video resource materials for elementary, middle and high school students developed specifically for the America's Legislators Back to School Program are available to legislators for use in the classroom. These age-appropriate booklets and short videos explain that disagreement is a natural part of the legislative process, that debate, negotiation and compromise are necessary, and that students' chances of being heard are better when they join with a group of people who share their views. Online resource materials include talking points about legislatures and the legislative process, suggestions for age-group appropriate activities with students and lesson plans for teachers to use.

By entering the classroom and listening to students' perspectives, legislators are able to initiate a dialogue while letting American youth know that their ideas count.

For More Information See: www.ncsl.org