State Rep. Donni Steele (R-Orion Township), presented a tribute to Mayas Smith of Bloomfield Hills on the House Floor today. Smith is an 11th Grade Student at Bloomfield Hills High School and creator of the Young Citizens Academy. The academy is a youth-driven program dedicated to educating elementary-age students on government, public service, and civic responsibilities. Smith started the academy when he began dropping off books to a classroom when he was in 9th Grade.

“Mayas is an exceptional young man taking steps to build a better future and better communities,” Steele said. “Our kids are our future leaders, and the Young Citizens Academy is providing them with the tools they’ll need to be successful.”

The Young Citizens Academy continues to teach students important knowledge in new and innovative strategies. These innovations include teaching children to play chess and other strategic games, compiling lesson plans for students, and engaging with students on the complexities of the election process.

“I was proud to have Mayas on the House Floor and present him with a tribute,” Steele said. “Mayas is doing exemplary work, and I have no doubt he’ll continue to do so in the years to come.”

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