November 22, 2004

Over the last several weeks, Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman participated in several local education events that link his responsibilities to the activities which traditionally take place in schools. These are examples of ongoing school visits which the mayor makes.

During the week of October 25, Goodman became a guest teacher in the Las Vegas schools during Teach for America Week. This was the first time that many of the students in elementary and middle school classes had a chance to meet an elected official, their mayor. Goodman's main purpose was to encourage the students to stay in school and pursue their personal goals and aspirations. He also fielded questions from the students about his job and personal life.

On October 14, Goodman swore in its newly elected Jacobsonville City Council Officers including its very own mayor at Walter E. Jacobson Elementary School. The student body participated in all aspects of the election as part of a valuable citizenship lesson about government. During the ceremony, the Mayor invited the newly installed Council and teachers to attend an upcoming Las Vegas City Council meeting where the students would be recognized.

Goodman strongly supports these kinds of educational activities throughout the school year. He feels it is a great opportunity to influence children and provide them with opportunities to see city government officials in action and to also observe their interest in education.