Wiscasset Middle High School high school students and teacher Shanon Cotta attended recent Wiscasset and Alna selectboard meetings so the students could gain a deeper knowledge of municipal government.

Student Christopher Seiders said, “I appreciate their thoughtful consideration regarding LD2003. I really appreciated the way they can move through the agenda, especially the General Assistance Ordinance and the approval of treasury warrants.”

Sarah Whitfield, chairman of the selectboard, acknowledged students from the principles of democracy course.

Student Linnea Andersson said, "I am very thankful for Chairman Whitfield and the other selectboard members at the meeting on Sept. 19. It was really interesting to see how small-town politics work and seeing it in real life is something everyone should get to experience."

The agenda covered treasurer’s warrants for fiscal year 2024, General Assistance Ordinance, and an LD2003 discussion on housing and short-term rentals. The students learned about roles and responsibilities of selectmen and the importance of local governance and public service.

The principles of democracy course examines key concepts and institutions of our political system and culture of the U.S. Students read, analyze and discuss the U.S. Constitution and other documents and complete research and applied civic projects.