Juniors Represent Duchesne at Youth in Government Day

Eric Seiffert
Director of Marketing

Duchesne juniors Bridget Caldwell and Eric Greifzu eagerly represented Duchesne at this year’s Youth in Government Day event for the City of St. Charles on April 14. The event, sponsored by the St. Charles Optimist Club, offers students the opportunity to visit with local officials to get an inside look into the workings of the government.

When Assistant Principal of Student Life Debi Turner ’96 asked the social studies faculty which students they would recommend for the trip, two stood out immediately. “It didn’t take long for teachers to enthusiastically suggest Eric and Bridget as outstanding representatives for Duchesne,” Mrs. Turner said. “Both students have demonstrated genuine interest and enthusiasm for government through their class participation. I was especially pleased to see that they were just as excited about the opportunity.”

The duo toured the county jail, courts, and county executive building, meeting the people who work there and asking questions about their day-to-day. “It was fascinating to learn more about our government and how we can get involved,” said Bridget. “I learned about the importance of being well-educated about what is going in our community and beyond.”

In addition to the tours, the students participated in a mock session to experience the decision-making process firsthand. “We had a debate like the chairmen would have on their Tuesday meetings. We debated whether AI data centers are right or wrong for St. Charles,” said Eric. “I learned how complicated the government system is. We went to three different places that all did different things, but they were all intertwined with each other in some way.”

The two students spent time with an impressive lineup of public servants during their visit, speaking with Director of Corrections Dan Keen, Council Member Mike Elam, Judge Dwayne Johnson, Prosecutor Joseph McCulloch, and Executive Steve Ehlmann.

These connections are made possible by the Optimist Club of St. Charles, an organization made up of individuals dedicated to helping young men and women reach their full potential by promoting optimism as a way of living. Youth in Government Day is just one program the club has implemented to pursue their mission: to generate interest in government affairs in young people and encourage them to be an active voice in their local community.

“Eric and Bridget are truly wonderful ambassadors for Duchesne,” said Mrs. Turner. “They did an excellent job representing us at the City of St. Charles for a day.”