Beginning my term as a Broward League of Cities ambassador just this week, I have already had the privilege of attending the judicial robing of Mr. Raag Singhal. Along with my three fellow ambassadors, I enjoyed the experience of going inside the Broward court system and meeting prominent members of the court such as Mr. Howard Forman, the court’s Clerk.

Of course, having only been inducted as a student ambassador just over a week ago, I consider myself a municipal government rookie. So, while I may not be presented with a robe and a seat on the bench anytime soon, here are a few things I look forward to participating in as a student ambassador.

The responsibility politicians have bestowed upon them by their constituents is tremendous, but simultaneously an honor in a class of its own. To be chosen to represent the best interests of hundreds, even thousands, of people is an achievement I aspire to and anxiously anticipate becoming involved in this year. Within the Broward League, there are distinct committees including education, finance/audits, educational development, public safety, etc. These committees will meet every few weeks, possibly more often, possibly less often in order to discuss affairs pertinent to their areas of interest. Based on the discussions, the committees will bring their suggestions to the attention of appropriate officials in order to bring about progress. I have the opportunity to sit in on and even participate in these meetings, bringing me one level closer to affecting real change in my community. I especially look forward to sitting in on the Education Committee.

As a high school junior, their discussions will most likely directly correlate to my every day experiences, hopefully leaving me with the chance to offer significant input in return. An issue in particular I believe needs to be addressed is the lack of proper technology in our public schools. Increasingly, students have begun to use laptops, iPads, and other tablets to take notes, do in class research, and expand the resources available to them. However, the public schools in Broward County lock Wi-Fi access and divert funding from technology upgrades, such as e-textbooks. That’s another My View for another month though.

Speaking of my views, I am also excited to have the opportunity to write a monthly My View column to be published on the Broward League’s website. As a high school student, it is unique to be presented with a forum to expound upon my views which might otherwise go unheard. Through the coupling of a government experience and a mouthpiece like the My View column, my fellow ambassadors and I are able to share our experiences and opinions with others.

With so much to look forward to, I can hardly wait to begin my term as a Broward League of Cities Student Ambassador and make the transition from rookie to seasoned veteran. I’d like to extend unlimited ‘Thank You’s’ to the Broward League and President Eisinger for this opportunity!

By: Zach Gorwitz