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Mustang Teen Alana Haikin Shines at National Civics Competition
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Mustang Teen Alana Haikin Shines at National Civics Competition
By Koco News – March 2024
In a dazzling display of knowledge, passion, and eloquence, 17‑year‑old Alana Haikin of Mustang High School stole the spotlight at the National Civics Competition held this week in Washington, D.C. The event, which drew high‑school scholars from across the country, tested students on their understanding of the Constitution, democratic principles, and the role of civic engagement in a functioning republic. Haikin’s performance not only earned her the top honor in her state but also positioned her as a standout participant in the national round.
The National Civics Competition: A Brief Overview
The competition, organized by the National Civic League (NCL), is an annual, statewide event that encourages students to demonstrate their mastery of civics. Each participant prepares a 10‑minute presentation on a pre‑selected civic topic—ranging from the rights and responsibilities of citizenship to the importance of voting and public policy. In addition to the oral component, students complete a written essay that is scored by a panel of educators and civic leaders.
According to the NCL’s website (link: https://www.nationalcivicscompetition.org), the program aims “to spark interest in civic engagement and to foster a deeper understanding of the democratic process among young people.” The 2024 competition was hosted at the National Archives, a setting that added a palpable sense of history to the proceedings.
Alana’s Journey to the Capitol
Alana Haikin’s path to the Capitol was paved with early curiosity about how government works. Growing up in a community where local debates about zoning and public school budgets were common, she was encouraged by her parents to ask questions and seek answers. “From a young age, I was always the kid who’d stay after school to read the newspaper or talk to the principal about how things are decided,” Alana recalled. “I think I just naturally gravitated toward civics because it’s the foundation of everything else.”
Haikin’s passion for civics found a formal outlet when she joined her school’s Civics Club in eighth grade. Under the mentorship of history teacher Ms. Teresa Lopez, Alana helped organize mock elections for the student council, hosted a “Know Your Constitutions” trivia night, and volunteered as a guide for visiting school officials. “Alana’s enthusiasm was contagious,” Ms. Lopez said. “She had a knack for breaking down complex topics into clear, engaging narratives that her classmates could relate to.”
The decision to compete at the National Civics Competition came after Haikin’s teacher noticed her exceptional presentation skills. She chose the topic “The Power of the Vote: Why Every Ballot Matters.” The presentation was a blend of historical context, personal anecdotes from her hometown’s voting history, and a call to action for her peers. She concluded with a live poll that demonstrated how civic engagement can transform local policies—an interactive element that wowed the judges.
The Competition Day
The competition day in Washington was a whirlwind of energy. Students arrived at the National Archives’ Exhibit Hall A, where the air was filled with the scent of old parchment and the hum of conversation. The event began with a keynote address from former U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi, who emphasized the importance of young voices in shaping policy. “The future of our democracy depends on the next generation’s readiness to step up,” she said.
Alana’s presentation, scheduled at 2:15 p.m., stood out for its clarity and depth. She began by citing the 19th Amendment, a milestone that had long since been celebrated but remained relevant today. She then tied in contemporary issues, such as the 2022 mid‑term elections, illustrating how local decisions—like school funding or zoning laws—affect everyday lives. Throughout her talk, she used a simple but powerful visual aid: a timeline of her own town’s civic milestones, juxtaposed with national elections.
The judges, a panel of educators, former politicians, and civic activists, awarded her the “Excellence in Civics” award. According to the NCL scoring rubric, her oral presentation scored 94 out of 100 for content accuracy, 97 for delivery, and 90 for engagement. Her essay, a well‑structured analysis of the role of civic education in fostering responsible citizenship, earned a perfect 100 on critical thinking and argumentation.
Beyond the Award
For Alana, the competition is just the beginning. She plans to pursue a degree in Political Science at the University of Kansas, where she hopes to focus on public policy and civic technology. “I want to build tools that help people understand the impact of their votes,” she said. “If I can make it easier for people to engage, that’s a win for democracy.”
Her parents are equally proud. “Seeing her put her whole heart into something that matters to the entire country is indescribable,” her mother, Maria Haikin, told Koco News. “She’s not just a student; she’s a leader.”
The broader community has also taken notice. The Mustang City Council announced that it would host a civic engagement fair in partnership with the school to celebrate Haikin’s achievement. The event will feature local officials, NGOs, and volunteer organizations, offering students tangible pathways to get involved.
Why Civics Matters Now
The timing of Haikin’s success coincides with a national conversation about civic participation. Recent polls indicate a rise in voter apathy among young people, especially in states with contentious election laws. Educational experts argue that initiatives like the National Civics Competition can counteract this trend by instilling knowledge, confidence, and a sense of responsibility.
“Alana’s story is a microcosm of what we’re trying to achieve,” said Dr. James Carter, a political science professor at the University of Kansas. “By equipping students with a deep understanding of civic processes and empowering them to act, we’re laying the groundwork for a more informed electorate.”
A Legacy of Leadership
Alana Haikin’s performance at the National Civics Competition is more than a personal triumph; it is a testament to the power of civic education and community support. As she steps into the next chapter of her academic journey, she carries with her a legacy of leadership that will inspire her peers to engage, debate, and shape the future of their communities.
For more information on the National Civics Competition and how you can get involved in your local civics initiatives, visit the NCL website at https://www.nationalcivicscompetition.org.
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