Sec. 2. Collaboration. Resolved: That the Department of Education shall collaborate with the University of Maine System, the Legislature and other interested institutions and persons in developing the political education program; and be it further

Sec. 3. Structure. Resolved: That the political education program must be structured on the political education programs sponsored by the National Assembly of Quebec and include classes, mock legislative sessions, political forums and other activities to educate elementary-level and secondary-level students and provide internships for postsecondary-level students and fellowships for postgraduate students on the functioning of State Government. The program may also include other educational activities for students and members of the general public; and be it further

Sec. 4. Report. Resolved: That the Department of Education shall report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over education and cultural affairs no later than January 15, 2003 with recommended legislation to implement the purposes of this resolve. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over education and cultural affairs may report out any legislation submitted by the department pursuant to this resolve to the First Regular Session of the 121st Legislature.

SUMMARY

This resolve directs the Department of Education to develop a political education program, based upon the education programs sponsored by the National Assembly of Quebec, to introduce the political system of the State to students and the general public and to enhance their understanding of how State Government works and affects our surroundings.