The Wisconsin State Senate Scholar Program is now accepting applications for 2010. The program began in 2005 to provide high school students the opportunity to learn about the Legislature through a week-long educational program working with senators, legislative staff, and University of Wisconsin faculty. Senate scholars experience the inner workings of the Legislature during their week in Madison. They meet with senators, attend floor debates and committee hearings, and engage in mock legislative activities such as policy and fiscal analysis, bill drafting, constituent relations and lobbying. The UW-Madison Robert M. LaFollette School of Public Affairs conducts seminars on Wisconsin political history and the role of the Legislature. Students discuss the media’s involvement in the legislative process through a media roundtable and learn about the governor’s duties through a presentation by Gov. Doyle and his staff. The week provides a unique opportunity for students to experience different facets of state government. This year, two of my constituents, Sarah Jean Kilker from Lake Mills and David Bacsik from Cambridge, were chosen to participate in the program. Wisconsin high school students who are 16 to 18 years of age are eligible to apply. The program accepts 33 students throughout the state who have strong academic records and letters of recommendation. For more information about the program or to obtain an application, please visit: http://www.legis.state.wi.us/senate/scc. Applications are due by Jan. 15, 2010. If you have comments, questions or would like more information, please call me at (608) 266-5660, write to me at P.O. Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707-7882, or visit my Web site: www.senatorfitzgerald.com