In the world of big choices and important leaders, there’s a special job for kids. Just ask Ellie Lively — the Kid Governor of New Hampshire!
Ellie’s journey started in her fifth-grade class at Bicentennial Elementary School in Nashua, New Hampshire. Her teacher told her about the Kid Governor program. Ellie, age 10, felt excited to make a difference. She loves animals, and she wanted to help them.
With the support of her classmates and family, Ellie ran for Kid Governor. She sent a video to the program. Fifth-graders across New Hampshire watched it. Then, they voted. The students chose Ellie as their next Kid Governor!
On January 9, 2024, Ellie started her time as Kid Governor. There was a ceremony at the New Hampshire State House in Concord. Ellie gave a speech and took an . Governor Chris Sununu showed Ellie and the other kid around his office. He gave them advice.
Ellie’s own pet inspired her mission. “I have a dog, and I love her,” Ellie told News-O-Matic. “She is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever."
Up first in Ellie’s plan is to teach people. The leader will make videos and write articles. She will share info about caring for pets and stopping animal .
The plan doesn’t stop there. “I will hold drives to provide food and supplies to shelters,” Ellie explained. She wants kids and grown-ups to help animals. As Kid Governor, she’ll create events where everyone can lend a hand.
At first, Ellie felt both nervous and glad about being Kid Governor. She said, “I feel like I could accomplish a lot.”
Ellie isn’t working alone. The six other candidates for New Hampshire’s Kid Governor are members of her team. They are Hattie, Jack, Levi, Noah, Parker, and Zoey.
As Kid Governor, Ellie wants to get better at . She also wants to meet people who help animals. She knows she can do a lot with the support she has.
Ellie believes everyone can make the world a better place. She shared a special message for kids. “I encourage them to try their best,” she said. “If you don’t speak up for what you feel passionate about, you will regret it.”
“If you try, you will always end up helping in some way,” Ellie added. “All kids can make a difference if they believe they can.”
Updated March 8, 2024, 5:02 P.M. (ET)
By Madeleine Skinner
