WHEREAS, The House of Representatives recognize January 25, 2010, as Civic Education Day; and
     WHEREAS, Civic education is essential for creating an informed and engaged citizenry and ensuring the future health of our representative democracy; and
     WHEREAS, Civic learning encourages young people to become knowledgeable and productive members of their communities, who are committed to preserving democratic institutions and values; and
     WHEREAS, It is important to provide students with a clear understanding of the legislative process and the role of legislators, so they might acquire the skills and knowledge to be competent citizens and future leaders of the state; and
     WHEREAS, Civic Education Day recognizes the work of civic educators and supporters across the state; and
     WHEREAS, The National Conference of State Legislatures partners with the Center for Civic Education to promote the Project Citizen Program; and
     WHEREAS, Many organizations such as ACLU of Washington, Civic Education Washington State, General Administration's Visitor Services, League of Women Voters of Washington Education Fund, Legislative Youth Advisory Council, the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ralph Munro Institute, The Seattle Times Newspapers in Education, the Secretary of State's Office, Thomas C. Wales Foundation, TVW, Washington State 4-H, Washington State Bar Association, Washington State Council for the Social Studies, Washington State Heritage Center, Washington State Historical Society, Washington State Legislature's Page School, Washington State Legislature's Civic Education Programs, Washington State Legislative Information Center, and YMCA Youth and Government are committed to providing a quality civic education to the young citizens of Washington State; and
     WHEREAS, The creation of the Washington State Legislative Youth Advisory Council has provided students from across the state with an opportunity to participate directly in the democratic process; and
     WHEREAS, The Washington State Legislative Internship Program is the longest running state intern organization in the United States, illustrating the commitment of the House of Representatives to civic education; and
     WHEREAS, The 2010 House Intern Program includes nineteen students from Washington's private and public higher learning institutions, such as Eastern Washington University, The Evergreen State College, University of Washington, Walla Walla University, Washington State University, Western Washington University, and Whitworth University; and
     WHEREAS, Interns leave this program equipped with the knowledge and experience to become better students, citizens, and leaders in their communities; and
     WHEREAS, The House of Representatives recognize the value of committed teachers, principals, community leaders, parents, state employees, interns, and volunteers who work diligently to continue the legacy of quality civic education in Washington State;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives celebrate, thank, and honor the civic educators and supporters of the state; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to the civic education organizations participating in Civic Education Day and colleges and universities participating in the Washington State Legislative Internship Program.