Civics Club, internship considered
Russell And Cumberland County officials, education leaders, and Civic Club members met recently at the Russell County Courthouse in Jamestown.
Collaborative effort
Staff Report
The Cumberland County Civics Club traveled to Russell County at the invitation of Judge/Executive Randy Marcum for a discussion about starting a civics club and internship program in Russell County.
While in Jamestown, club members answered questions asked by not only Judge Marcum, but also by education professionals from the local Board of Education and Russell County High School (RCHS).
The conversation covered the steps necessary to form this type of organization, and included first-hand student accounts of how this type of program can benefit both the participants and the county.
“Judge Marcum is one of Cumberland County’s biggest advocates when it comes to this program,” Cumberland County Judge Executive Luke King said. “His leadership in Russell County is exactly what will make their own civics club and internship program successful.”
“The court’s focus on youth and the obvious interest from the local school district are sure to lead to exciting things for the youth of our neighboring county,” King said.
“We were grateful for the opportunity to speak with government and school officials about a potential Russell County Civics Club,” Cumberland County Civics Club Judge Sadie Arterburn said. “Opening their doors to us shows they are committed to the youth of their county.”
Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum and Russell County High School Principal Shanna Tarter spoke about Civic Clubs with Cumberland County’s Nolan Cowgill, Sadie Arterburn, and Evan Stotts.
Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum sees potential in the collaboration.
“We are excited to explore the opportunity of bringing a Civics Club and internship program to Russell County,” he said. “Engaging our youth in the civic process is essential for developing the next generation of leaders. I’m grateful for the guidance and support from Cumberland County’s Civics Club, and I look forward to working alongside our local education and government officials to make this vision a reality for our community.”
The Cumberland County Civics Club started in January 2024.
Members of the organization have traveled across the region and state helping other groups understand the process for establishing similar organizations that empower the youth and help local governments engage and involve young leaders in the problem-solving process.
In addition to Judge Marcum and Judge King, the following people also participated in the recent meeting: Aidan Capps, Tyler Thacker, Emmalee Fulton, Nolan Cowgill, Evan Stotts, Sadie Arterburn, Russell County School Superintendent Michael Ford, RCHS Principal Shanna Tarter, Civics Teacher Joy Shearer, Gifted/Talented Instructors Hannah England and Suzie Stephens, as well as Russell County Deputy Judge Susan Melton.
