Teen Political Forum in Coral Springs. {David Volz}
High school students interested in politics and leadership attended the Teen Political Forum on April 29 at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, gaining firsthand experience in civic engagement and interacting directly with local leaders.
Following the opening remarks, the open-mic-style forum offered students the opportunity to question a panel of elected officials on issues important to them.
Panel members included Mayor Scott Brook, Commissioners Shawn Cerra and Joshua Simmons, Broward County Commissioner Michael Udine, School Board member Debra Hixon, Dr. Jermaine Fleming, Regional Superintendent, and Joe Scott, Broward Supervisor of Elections.
The auditorium was filled with students from Coral Springs, Coral Glades, J.P. Taravella, Coral Springs Charter, and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High Schools. The event fostered school pride and community spirit, as students cheered when their schools were mentioned during the evening.
Panelists at the Teen Political Forum. {David Volz}
Brook thanked the students for coming and promised to support them. He shared his cell phone number and encouraged students to call him. “I am your mayor, and I will make a sandwich for you if you ask,” he said.
One question concerned e-bikes, and Simmons encouraged students to be careful when riding them. Udine said he was especially concerned about mental health among young people. Hixon said she wants to see more attractive academic magnet programs and more efficient use of school buildings. Scott said he wanted all the 18-year-old students to register to vote.
During the open mic phase, the focus shifted to school safety. One student asked if the metal detector program could be scaled back, while another inquired about addressing fights and lockdowns. Cerra, a former Taravella principal, said students should report potential problems and work to improve their school. Brook further encouraged students to look out for classmates who might be struggling.
One student mentioned his desire to remain in Coral Springs after high school and asked what was being done to make the city appealing over the next twenty years. Brook responded positively, stating his appreciation and intent to ensure Coral Springs remains a great place to live. Other students raised questions about everyday problems at their schools.
At the conclusion of the forum, schools were recognized based on student attendance, highlighting each school community’s impact and engagement. Coral Glades earned first place and $2,000. Coral Springs Charter took second place and $1,500, and Marjory Stoneman Douglas received third place and $750.
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