Bulldogs Head to Capital Hill

Madelyn Whitten

Kearney High School seniors Lexie Barton and Madelyn Whitten joined 43 other members of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) organization to participate in the annual Missouri Legislative Shadowing Project held April 8–9 in the state’s capitol.

Legislative Shadowing is a Missouri FCCLA-only program and gives students the opportunity to shadow a legislator for a day, advocate for FCS and FCCLA, and get to know the representatives for our area, according to KHS FCCLA sponsor Kassidy Robertson.

Miss Whitten shadowed Representative Josh Hurlbert, and Miss Barton shadowed Representative Mazzie Christensen. Both were able to witness an action-packed day with a heated House vote for a bill about slot machines in gas stations. They also met Governor Mike Kehoe.

"I couldn't ask for two better individuals to represent Kearney High School and FCCLA," Mrs. Robertson said. "Madelyn even expressed on the way home that her goal is to now end up working in the capitol in some capacity!"

The Legislative Shadowing Project gives students the opportunity to engage directly with Missouri’s legislative process, offering a hands-on look into state government as well as the opportunity for members to advocate for Missouri families, students, and Career and Technical Education as an integral part of education in Missouri’s schools.

Lexie Barton

The two-day experience began with a welcome reception on April 8, where students enjoyed light appetizers, participated in a civics review and agenda discussion, and heard from guest speaker Jessica Seitz, Executive Director of the Missouri Network Against Child Abuse (MO-NACA). Jessica, who previously served four years as the agency’s Director of Public Policy, shared valuable insights into advocacy, public service, and her time at the capitol. She also discussed previous and current legislation affecting children and families.

On Wednesday, April 9, participants met with their assigned state representatives and senators to begin their shadowing experience at the Capitol. Students observed legislative sessions and committee meetings, explored the roles of lawmakers, and gained a deeper understanding of how state policies are shaped.

The experience concluded with a reflective wrap-up session, where students shared favorite memories and created thank-you notes for the legislators and supporters who helped make this unique opportunity possible. The Legislative Shadowing Project continues to inspire future leaders by connecting students with real-world civic engagement, fostering the next generation of informed and active citizens.

KPGZ News – Ray Weikal contributed to this story.