CAMDEN – What could we change to make the earth, our town or our home a better place? Ninety sixth graders at the Camden/Rockport Middle School presented those ideas at their third annual Kids Conference for Change that took place Wednesday, June 12, in the school’s gymnasium.

Was it hard for 90 students to come up with good ideas for change?

Not at all.

Arguments for a cleaner ocean and the environment in general were made, as well as for solar power, electric cars and food, and  animal rights, gender equality, bullying and basic human rights.  

Students even questioned their own school system.

Are schools preparing them for life? They should be taught about taxes. Lunches and recess breaks became a topic to explore. There was even one very convincing argument about how students should attend school year-round.

All the subjects were prepared by the students. They researched, presented and fielded questions from fellow students, faculty and parents.

The conference was opened with the reading of a letter from Maine’s Governor Janet Mills. In it Mills’ stated she was pleased to learn about the students efforts to research advocacy for to bring about positive change with their work.

Mills said that as future leaders of our state, it is important they raise their voices to make their priorities heard.

Following the presentations in the gym, students assembled into four breakout sessions performing original songs, reading poetry, making speeches and answering questions in four classrooms in a coffee-house style setting. Refreshments were also served.

The sixth grade Kids Conference for Change culminated back in the gym with a video presentation and a choral performance.

The students thanked the community for being part of their day and supporting them to continue to fight in what they believe in and advocate for positive change.