Immediate Release: Saturday, April 16, 2016

Contact: (605) 271-5405, press@sddp.org

Students Learn from Elected Leaders at YELL

Pierre, SD (April 16, 2016)-

Students from across the state gathered in Pierre at the Capitol April 15-16 for an opportunity to learn directly from state legislative leadership at the 4th annual YELL!, the Young Elected Legislative Leaders program.

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State Senator Troy Heinert (D-26) and Representative Spencer Hawley (D-7) address the YELL assembly April 15, 2016.

“It’s a great opportunity to mentor young South Dakotans and help them develop the skills required to make an impact in their community,” said Senator Troy Heinert (D-26).

Students at YELL meet in committee, debate legislation on the floor, and eventually pass bills in a mock legislative session similar to how the real state legislature functions.

“YELL seeks to foster the next generation of South Dakota leaders,” said Ann Tornberg, Chair of the South Dakota Democratic Party. “We’re betting that if we expose young people to the legislative experience, it will inspire them to return one day. We had a record level of applicants this year and we are excited about the enthusiasm.”

YELL, hosted by the South Dakota Democratic Party, occurs annually in April and is free to students.

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