Grade 2 Visits City Hall

After studying the three branches of government, second graders visited City Hall on April 10 to see how local governance works in person. They met and talked with San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, District 6 Councilmember Kent Lee, District 5 Councilmember Marni Von Wilpert and City Attorney Mara Elliot.

With a list of prepared questions, students asked the public service representatives what they liked most and least about their jobs, where they grew up, what their favorite thing to do in San Diego is and how they use a growth mindset. 

The mayor explained that he became involved in politics to help people. When he was younger, he participated in beach clean-ups and signed up new voters before he was old enough to vote. He shared on social media, “It’s inspiring to see the next generation eager to learn about public service and how they can contribute to making San Diego better.”

Elliot is the first woman and first Latina to serve as City Attorney in San Diego’s history. When she needs a reset, she takes a hike with her family and dog. 

Von Wilpert had the students debate using land to create housing vs. keeping it untouched for mountain lion habitats. As students discussed the benefits of each side, they realized how impactful—and difficult—these decisions can be. Von Wilpert shared on social media, “It is so exciting to see the next generation so eager to learn about public service and how they can make a positive impact in San Diego.”