Perry County officeholders welcomed students from Perry County School District 32, St. Vincent Schools and Saxony Lutheran High School on Monday, March 16, for the annual County Government Day.
The longstanding event, organized by American Legion Unit 133 Auxiliary, brought together 36 local students who were paired with county officeholders for a hands-on look at local government operations. Participants spent the morning touring county offices and facilities, gaining insight into the roles and responsibilities of departments that serve Perry County residents.
Now approaching its 70th year, County Government Day remains a valued tradition connecting students with public service and civic engagement. The day began and concluded at the Perry County Joint Justice Center, where students observed a demonstration, toured the facility and learned about the functions of the justice system. County officeholders were introduced and provided an overview of their duties before students spent part of the day shadowing officials.
In addition to the Justice Center, students visited the historic Perry County Courthouse and the Perry County Administration Building, experiencing both the history and modern operations of county government. During lunch, attendees viewed a presentation on the construction of the Joint Justice Center.
Lunch was provided by American Legion Unit 133 Auxiliary. The program also featured a flag-folding ceremony conducted by members of the American Legion Honor Guard, including Wayne Taylor, Bill Richardet and Fritz Ponder.
Students participating in the 2026 County Government Day included:
Perryville High School — Aiden Wendel, Josiah Paisley, Derek Martin, Wesley Pfaff, Abigail Hoff, Kara Hotop, Marcus Smith, Waylon Huber, Ally Burns, Clint Sattler, Kelly Chavez, Alanna Robinson, Reese Behrle, Olivia Bierk and Micah Brown.
Saxony Lutheran High School — Cole Roth, Jack Ozark, Korby Engert, Alex Buerck, Blake Tomlinson, Reagan Ponder, Tegan Barnett, Steven Blackard, Casey Call, Ryleigh Manche, Madelyn Head and Brock Tomlinson.
St. Vincent Schools — Jenna Unterreiner, Lucy McKinney, Kennedy Cissell, Audrey Amschler, Isaac Kirn, Jenna Abernathy, Lauren Light, Sadie Cissell and Kale Meyer.
County Government Day continues to serve as an important educational opportunity, fostering a deeper understanding of local government and encouraging future community leaders and civic- minded citizens.
