Students become "Leaders for a Day" on Oahu, Kauai, Maui and Big Island

As part of the 2007 Hawaii "Leader for a Day" Program, 91 middle and high school students from across the state will get to see first-hand how elected officials address Hawaii's biggest issues. They'll shadow Gov. Lingle, Lt. Gov. Aiona, the Mayors of all four counties, Dept. of Education Superintendent Pat Hamamoto and members of the legislature.

This is the first year that at least one student will shadow each member of the House of Representatives and Senate during the legislative session.

Over 349 essays were received for the "Leader for a Day" Essay Contest. The winners were chosen based on their essays about issues of particular concern to their communities and how they would address those issues if they were in charge.

The winners will get certificates of recognition from the House and have been invited to a ceremony in the Governor’s Executive Chambers this week and a reception at Washington Place with the recipients of Hawaii’s Outstanding Advocates for Children and Youth.

"Leader for a Day" is an annual program sponsored by the House and Senate as part of Children and Youth Month (October).

Congrats!