Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R-Huntington), chair of the Education & Diversity Committee, and the Suffolk County Legislature hosted more than 80 middle school students from the Brentwood School Dstrict for a hands-on introduction to the workings of the legislative process. The session was held in the Rose Caracappa Auditorium in the William H. Rogers Legislature Building in Hauppauge on February 11. Tuesday’s session was the third annual visit by Brentwood students, in conjunction with Brentwood Union Free School District educators and the Brentwood Family YMCA Youth and Government program.
The students participated in a mock legislative session, taking seats at the “horseshoe” and acting in the roles of the presiding officer, legislators, and interested citizens to question, debate, and ultimately take a roll call vote specific issues pertaining to schools.
Bontempi, a former educator, and her colleague, Legislator Samuel Gonzalez (D-Brentwood, whose district office is in Brentwood, spoke to the students about their responsibilities and activities as legislators and the process through which local laws are enacted. They also spoke about the need to provide constituents’ services, as well as potential district office internships and legislative leadership programs such as the Distinguished Youth Awards.
“It was great to see so many middle school students participate in a mock legislative meeting today at the legislature,” said Bontempi. “This experience allows students to gain first-hand knowledge of how local government operates. It was a pleasure to speak to them about our roles and responsibilities.”
Gonzalez was also delighted to speak with the students. “It was an honor to welcome our Brentwood Middle School students to the Suffolk County Legislature. Having the chance to learn how local government works is an invaluable opportunity in enhancing civics among our young people,” he said.
The sample legislation considered included: an act to make armed security guards around the school premises mandatory; an act permitting the utilization of mobile cell phones within New York public schools during school hours; an act to require all schools in New York State to have a set of double doors in the main entrance of the school building; and an act to provide a therapist in public school grades from K-12 whose parents are going through a divorce.
“We’re pleased to be able to provide this opportunity to these students – who may one day embark on their own careers in public service,” said Presiding Officer Kevin J. McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst). “These future leaders had a chance to see what it’s like to consider, debate, and vote on the issues we in the Legislature face every day. I hope their experience was enjoyable and educational. We thank them for visiting the Legislature today and wish them good luck with all their future endeavors.”
Youth and Government Advisor Gregory Walter, a teacher at Brentwood South Middle School, said, “Today was great. It’s an extension of the program for the students. They get to see on the local level how things work. They love the opportunity of sitting in the legislative chairs and just getting a feel for how the whole process runs.”
Three South Middle School students gave their perspective. Eighth-grader Aasirra has been to prior sessions. “It was good, per usual. I like the mock trials a lot. It’s my favorite part,” she said.
Eighth-grader Mahya said, “My favorite part is hearing people’s questions and the answers. That was really informative. I like to present the bill and answer the questions.”
Eighth grader Jaymy said: “I liked seeing everyone engaged and participating with everyone’s bills and having fun.”
Asked if they would consider running for office or being in government, they all said — almost in unison — “Perhaps!”