Call goes out for Oregon’s next Kid Governor

Oregon is looking for a fifth grader with a plan.

The annual Kid Governor campaign has opened, with voting timed to coincide with this year's November Election Day.

This statewide civics program invites fifth graders to nominate a classmate for Kid Governor and vote on the candidates. The Oregon secretary of state's office runs the program, and it includes free lesson guides to lead students through the branches of state government.

Candidates create a video that includes an issue they think is important and a three-point plan to address it. Winners will work with the secretary of state's office and have an opportunity to meet Oregon leaders and legislators. Past governors have raised awareness about mental health, bullying, animal abuse, racism and homelessness.

Classes must register by Nov. 4 to vote. The winner will be announced Dec. 1.