PERRYVILLE, Mo. — Perry County officeholders welcomed students from Perry County School District 32, St. Vincent Schools, and Saxony Lutheran High School on Monday, March 16, 2026, for the annual County Government Day.
The longstanding event, organized by the American Legion Unit 133 Auxiliary, brought together 36 local students who were each paired with county officeholders for a hands-on look at local government operations. Participants spent the morning touring a variety of county offices and facilities, gaining insight into the roles and responsibilities of the departments that serve Perry County residents.
Now approaching its 70th year, County Government Day remains a valued tradition that connects students with public service and civic engagement. The day began and concluded at the Perry County Joint Justice Center, where students observed a live demonstration, toured the facility, and learned about the functions of the justice system. Perry County office holders were introduced and provided a brief description of the duties of their elected positions. Students then spent a portion of the day shadowing officials to gain insight into what a workday looks like when serving local government.
In addition to the Justice Center, students visited the historic Perry County Courthouse and the Perry County Administration Building, experiencing both the history and the modern operations of county government. During the lunch hour, attendees viewed a presentation featuring the construction of the Joint Justice Center.
Lunch was provided by the 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, 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, Brock Tomlinson
St. Vincent Catholic Schools:
Jenna Unterreiner, Lucy KcKinney, Kennedy Cissell, Audrey Amschler, Issac Kirn, Jenna Abernathy, Lauren Light, Sadie Cissell, Kale Meyer
County Government Day continues to serve as an important educational opportunity, fostering a deeper understanding of local government and inspiring future community leaders and civic minded citizens who learn about the many ways they can serve the community.