Seven fifth-grade students from across the state have been selected as finalists in the first-ever election for Nebraska’s Kid Governor®. Each finalist has developed a campaign platform focused on a real issue affecting their communities and a three-point plan outlining how young people can make a difference.
The final candidates and the community issues that make up their platforms:
›› Alma – Ensuring every student has the essentials they need at school
›› Charlie – Cancer awareness
›› Eila – Creating kindness at schools
›› Kenzlie – Recycling and the environment
›› Reid – Student wellness
›› Victoria – The dangers of feeding wildlife
›› Will – Keeping recreational spaces clean and safe for kids
From Nov. 3-12, fifth-grade classrooms across Nebraska are watching each candidate’s campaign videos, discussing the issues, and casting their ballots. The student who receives the most votes will become Nebraska’s first Kid Governor, to be announced the following week. The six runners-up will form the Kid Governor’s Cabinet, helping to identify statewide issues, propose solutions, and work together on a real initiative to create meaningful change during the coming year.
Kid Governor® is a national civics program created by the Connecticut Democracy Center and introduced in Nebraska through Civic Nebraska. Designed for fifth-grade classrooms and homeschool groups, the program combines civics lessons with hands-on leadership opportunities. Students learn about state government, identify community concerns, research and debate ideas, and experience the democratic process through an authentic statewide election.
“The Kid Governor program gives young Nebraskans a powerful first experience in civic life,” said Juan Milan, Civic Nebraska’s youth civic leadership program manager. “Students are learning that leadership begins with listening, empathy, and action – and that every voice, no matter how young, can make a real difference.
“We can’t wait to see these outstanding seven students work together in 2026.”
The winning candidate and Cabinet members will be sworn in during a special inauguration ceremony at the Nebraska State Capitol on Jan. 13, 2026, marking the beginning of their year-long term of service.
For more about Nebraska’s Kid Governor program, visit https://ne.kidgovernor.org.
