Students learn about role of government during Florida City Week
Published on October 24, 2025
Staff joined municipalities across the state in celebrating Florida City Week, from Oct. 20-26, highlighting the role local government plays in shaping strong, engaged communities. Sponsored by the Florida League of Cities, Florida City Week aims to increase awareness of city services and the importance of civic engagement, especially among students. As the government closest to the people, municipalities have a direct impact on community life.
“Government can sometimes seem complicated,” said Stephanie Vernot, the City’s Community Engagement Manager. “But when students see how city services touch their lives every day, they understand that government is really about people and community.”
Staff from more than 10 City departments took part in educational assemblies and engaged with more than 500 students from two charter schools and three St. Lucie Public Schools, including Village Green Environmental Studies School; Tradition Preparatory High School; Windmill Point Elementary School; Somerset College Preparatory Academy; and Port St. Lucie High School.
The presenters led interactive discussions, helping students explore how city services like budgeting, planning and public works come together to keep the City running smoothly. The program also encouraged civic participation, reminding students that their voices matter and that they can help shape the City’s future.
“The students gained some great insight into what our City Council does for civic participation and city upkeep. I loved the enthusiasm. (Staff) was genuinely happy to be teaching our students about their local government,” said Ella Harris, president of the Tradition Preparatory High School Student Government Association.
“Celebrating City Government Week with the City of Port St. Lucie has given our students a firsthand look at the hard work and dedication that goes into maintaining and improving our community,” said Evan Risi, who teaches government at Port St. Lucie High School. “Seeing the young citizens of Port St. Lucie High engage with their city’s decision-makers gives me great hope for the future of our growing community. I hope this celebration becomes a tradition at our school."
The City also hosted a daily trivia contest on Facebook and LinkedIn to involve its social media followers in Florida City Week festivities.
For more information about Florida City Week, visit www.flcities.com.