The federal government is the top level of government in the United States. It makes laws for the entire country and handles things that affect everyone — like national defense, money, and working with other countries. It includes the President, Congress, and the Supreme Court, who each have special jobs to keep the government running fairly.

In Kansas, we are represented in Congress by four members of the House of Representatives and two U.S. Senators. We also get to vote in the presidential election every four years, just like the rest of the country!

The state government makes laws and decisions that affect everyone who lives in Kansas. It takes care of things like state highways, public schools, and state parks.

Just like the federal government, the state government has three branches that work together to make and enforce state laws:

• Executive Branch: Led by the Governor, who makes sure state laws are carried out.

• Legislative Branch: Made up of the Kansas House of Representatives and the Kansas Senate, which write and pass bills that become state law.

• Judicial Branch: Made up of the Kansas Supreme Court and other state courts, which make sure laws follow the Kansas Constitution.

Kansas voters help choose the Governor and members of the Legislature, so we all have a say in how our state is run!

County government helps take care of services that cover a whole area, not just one city or town. Johnson County provides important services like running elections, recording property documents, keeping county roads in good shape, and helping families and seniors through community programs. Johnon County also has award-winning parks and libraries to serve the community. 

Elected County leaders include the Board of County Commissioners who works hard to make sure the county’s work is done fairly and efficiently for everyone who lives here. We also elect a Sherrif who is in charge of law enforcement for the County. 

City government focuses on services close to home — things like police and fire departments, parks, water, and trash pickup. City leaders also make decisions about roads, zoning, and local rules that help keep the community safe and enjoyable.

Most cities in Johnson County have a Mayor and a City Council who are elected by the people to make decisions for their city.

Some areas of the County are not in cities. Instead, these areas are in areas called townships. Residents who live in townships have the opportunity to vote for township positions instead of mayor or city council. 

Though some students attend private schools or do schooling at home, every address in Johnson County is assigned to a public school district. These school districts are guided by elected school board members. Board members make decisions about school rules, budgets, teachers, and programs that help students learn.

School board members are elected by local voters, which means families and community members have a voice in how their schools are run.

Believe it or not, you are the most important part of our government! Every person has the opportunity to make a difference. You make a difference by volunteering, serving the community, running for office, speaking at a public meeting, and, yes, by voting! 

Our communities work best when people are involved, learn about the issues, and take action to make the world around them better every day. Being an active citizen helps ensure that our government reflects the voices of the people it serves — and that includes you!