Student Government Day

Student Government Day — Friday, April 10, 2026

In 1947, the Massachusetts Legislature enacted a program called Student Government Day (originally Good Government Day) which is traditionally held on a Friday in April. This is an informative program about state government, that includes students participating in the role of elected or appointed officials to "observe the processes of government."

The program provides educators and students from Massachusetts's public and private high schools with many opportunities to learn first hand about state government. It enables government officials to have contact with students. It allows students to voice their positions on important current issues through prepared debates. It enables students to participate in the legislative process through simulated committee hearings and House and Senate formal sessions. It provides the opportunity for students to exchange views with their peers throughout the state on statewide issues.

Student Government Day 2026:

Speech Competition winners:

• Joseph Case High School: Ethan Albernaz — Auditor
• Lynn English High School: Lily Mancaniello — Secretary
• Mansfield High School: Sarah Farley — Lieutenant Governor
• North Attleboro High School: Lalenthika Venkatesh — Treasurer
• Smith Academy: Anna Tunstall — Attorney General
• Tech Boston Academy: Frederic Menjivar — Governor

Bill up for debate: House Bill H.614 An Act relative to issuing guidance regarding setting policies for the use of AI in schools

Planning for Student Government Day

• FAQs: Student Government Day 2026

• Student Government Day Testimony Examples

• Student Government Day Testimony Guide and Tips

• Student Consent Form

• Student Government Day Observer Protocols

Additional Information

• How An Idea Becomes A Law

• Find My Legislator

• Massachusetts General Laws: Chapter 6, Section 12M: Student Government Day

Email us at studentgovday@doe.mass.edu .

Last Updated: March 30, 2026