Legislative Semester Inc.

Overview

Legislative Semester Inc. is a nonprofit organization supporting the Legislative Semester, a semester-long civics and government curriculum designed for high school students. The program aims to engage students in a comprehensive simulation of the legislative process, fostering skills in civic engagement, civil discourse, information literacy, and critical reasoning[1][3].

Mission

The mission of the Legislative Semester is to prepare young people for a lifetime of civic engagement by developing these essential skills. Through the program, students explore their political identities, discuss current policy issues, research public policy problems, write bills, and participate in mock legislative sessions[3].

Curriculum Structure

The Legislative Semester curriculum is structured into several phases:

• Classroom: Students learn to conduct meetings using agendas and parliamentary procedure.
• Party Declaration: Students explore their political beliefs and declare affiliation with political parties.
• Leadership & Elections: Students campaign for party leadership roles.
• Bill Writing Issue Groups: Students research and write bills on public policy issues.
• Committee Hearings: Bills are discussed and amended in committee settings.
• Full Session: Passed bills are debated and voted on in a full legislative session[2].

Impact

The program has been noted for its transformative impact on students and educators alike. It promotes deep engagement with the legislative process, encouraging students to become active participants in civic life. Testimonials highlight the program's effectiveness in fostering enthusiasm, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of government structure[1][5].

Nonprofit Status

As a 501(c)(3) organization, Legislative Semester Inc. is exempt from federal income taxation and eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. However, as with all such organizations, it must operate exclusively for exempt purposes and avoid substantial lobbying activities or political campaign engagement[4].