A group activity at Osborne Middle School turned into a unique opportunity for students in Mitch Herman’s 8th-grade Social Studies classes. The students had the chance to interact with State Representative Chuck Efstration, who stopped by to learn about an activity called “Bill to Law.” This hands-on exercise mimics the legislative process of how laws are created.

     During the activity, students formed “committees” representing the legislative branch and discussed changes they’d like to see in their community or state. Using a model provided by Herman, the students crafted various bills, which they then shared, debated, and sometimes even vetoed. Ultimately, each class voted on one final bill to represent their group.

     Afterward, Herman emailed the classes’ final bill to Representative Efstration and invited him to stop by. Representative Efstration expressed interest in the assignment and agreed to visit the school and speak with students. Herman says he’s thankful that the assignment resonated with students and Representative Efstration, and grateful for the impact Representative Efstration’s visit had on his students.

     “Anytime I can connect what we teach to the real world and [students] see that it actually matters, that is the reason for all this,” Herman shares. “When [students] are recognized by someone we’ve studied, on a topic they took pride in, it makes a lasting impact. I really appreciate Representative Efstration taking the time out of his busy schedule to visit our school and interact with students.”