Spencer follows the sixteen other students into the YMCA, well kept and modestly built. Mr O’Brien opens the door to the makeshift meeting room. Plastic, foldable chairs are set up for everyone to sit, which they do, Spencer as well. Mr O’Brien stands in front of everyone, clasping and rubbing his hands together as he begins the training.
Spencer Styre, GHS transfer student from Canada spoke about the trip made by Student Youth and Government to the Concord YMCA on November 8th. Spencer recalls the trip fondly, saying that it was nice and relaxing. He says that the trip was simply, “An introduction for new people…”, where Mr O’Brien went over procedures and rules to follow to prevent the group from being forcefully removed from any government buildings.
Mr O’Brien, social studies teacher at Goffstown High School, confirms this, saying that the field trip was to introduce new members to the rules and regulations about the government buildings they will be visiting, such as where they are allowed to go, while also reminding some of the returning club members. He comments on how this was the first time that they had done a training program/course for the club, and as such had a few rough patches here and there, but overall he believes that the program went well.
Spencer believes that the field trip, despite being for educational purposes, was quite fun. He spoke about a trivia game that was held during the lunch break, which, despite being uncoordinated by the staff, was still very enjoyable. What probably added to the overall pleasure concerning the trip was the addition of a stop at a Crumbl cookie store, which was made on the way back to the school from the YMCA.
Mr O’Brien comments about how he, “think(s) that the program brought enjoyment… (and) was effective.” With this confirmation from both student and teacher it is affirmed that the Youth and Government club will be all set moving forward in their activities.