The City of Carlsbad, Junior Achievement and Carlsbad elementary schools collaborate to introduce local government to third grade students through the CityStuff program.

CityStuff volunteers use engaging, hands-on activities to teach Carlsbad third graders how local government works by presenting five, one-hour lessons in the classroom with a sixth lesson at the city's Council Chambers.

The first four interactive lessons teach the important role businesses play to help a city run smoothly, as well as what it takes to build and maintain a city. Students learn about city planning, zoning, taxes, banking and becoming an entrepreneur as they work together to create their own restaurant.

The fifth lesson is all about the City of Carlsbad, the significance of the City Seal, the important job of the Mayor and Council Members as well as how Carlsbad became a city.

The program culminates with a sixth lesson at the Council Chambers where the students present a mock council meeting about saving or cutting down an 80-year-old tree. Each student has a part in the presentation as the Mayor, Council Members, local experts or residents. It is an experience the students will never forget.

Find out how fun and rewarding your participation as a volunteer can be as the third graders experience democracy in action and learn about their city through you.

For more information or to volunteer, please contact Erin Peak, Program Manager, at erin.peak@carlsbadca.gov or 442-339-2043.