La Pine fifth-grader chosen for Oregon Kid Governor cabinet

Teegan Wright, an 11-year-old fifth-grader from La Pine, has been selected to join the Oregon Kid Governor's cabinet after excelling in a statewide mock election aimed at fifth-graders. His campaign focuses on getting more children involved in team sports to promote mental health and well-being, reflecting a growing concern about youth mental health issues. Teegan is a passionate athlete, participating in sports such as golf, swimming, and basketball, which underscores his commitment to physical fitness and teamwork. He believes that involvement in sports can lead to better academic performance and a decrease in violence among peers, as it fosters a sense of belonging and support. With the inauguration in Salem approaching, Teegan is eager to begin his work and has already reached out to local coaches to discuss ways to support struggling kids.

His vision is to create a movement that connects research on sports benefits with practical applications in community programs. Teegan's father, Ron Wright, who is also a teacher, supports his son's initiative and recognizes the positive impact of sports on students' focus and behavior. Teegan hopes to engage larger organizations, such as the NFL and NBA, to further enhance opportunities for youth in sports and education.