Understanding the Branches of Government
How students can interact with government to make change locally
Branches of Government
Executive
Runs programs/enforces rules. Includes: President, Govennor and Mayor.
Judicial Branch
The Judicial Branch interprets laws and ensures they are applied fairly. Includes: Supreme Court, Local and State Courts
Which Branch Should I Contact
Executive
Legislative
Do you want to: Change a school rule, Create a new program at your school, Improve a city ordinance, Require something to happen (ex: recycling bins, safer crosswalks, later start times) or Allocate funding to a need in your community
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School Board
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City Council
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County Board of Supervisors
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State Legislature
Do you want to: Improve how a program or service is run in your school or community? You will need to work with the Executive Branch, which is responsible for managing and implementing public services.
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School District Superintendent
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School Principals
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City Mayor
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Parks & Recreation Department
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Public Works Department
Judicial Branch
Do you want to: challenge an unfair school discipline decision, address discrimination or unequal treatment, understand their rights at school, question whether a policy is legal, ensure rules are applied fairly, or resolve a dispute, they may need to work within systems connected to the Judicial Branch, which interprets laws and protects rights.
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Local Courts
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(i.e. County Superior Courts)
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Judges
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Administrative Law Judges
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Hearing Officers
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Mediators
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School District Compliance Officers (for formal complaints or appeals)