There are so many issues in the world today that directly impact young people.  Whether it’s the struggling economy, the slow growth of the job market, or the state of education in our country, there are plenty of reasons to worry about the future.

As an example, multiple Chicago schools have closed in recent years. “Forty-seven elementary schools closed in June 2013 and nearly 12,000 students were affected,”  according to progressillinois.com.

Rather than leave the future in the hands of current politicians, a group of Mount Carmel students chooses to meet regularly to discuss these and other important issues.

According to Moderator Mr. Kevin Hansen, the Young Politicians Club was started by senior Richard Ehlert “because of his interest in politics,”  Regular participants include seniors Gabriel Bustoz and Khalil Bentley, among others.

The club meets every week, usually after school on Friday at 3:05, to discuss a wide range of topics. Hansen recalled, “Last week we debated about Iran’s nuclear weapons, and now we are discussing gun rights.” Next week the club’s topic talk will be the United States Prison System.”

The group also is considering plans for trips and for guest speakers, including, according to Hansen, “a field trip to Springfield.”

While the club has not yet hosted a guest speaker, Hansen is “looking to have one soon.”