Harrisons Parsons Elementary Pupils Visit Legislators

HARRISON, N.Y. -- Fifth-grade class students of Parsons Elementary School recently had the opportunity to engage in a mock trial debate format at the Board of Legislators as an enhancement to the government unit of study.

The Parsons Elementary School students at the Board of Legislators.
Photo Credit: *Contributed*

Students discussed issues in the Legislative Chambers.
Photo Credit: *Contributed*

Students sat at legislators' desks during their visit.
Photo Credit: *Contributed*

by Crystal D'Sa

04/08/2014 4:00 a.m.

The Parsons students were divided into separate committees and given bills to discuss in those committees, such as implementing school uniforms, extending the school year to a 12-month calendar and setting up a curfew for children younger than age 13. The students reconvened to debate their points of view and vote in the Legislative Chambers.

“The students were very excited to sit in the actual room and chairs that our legislators sit in when they are discussing important issues that pertain to all of us,” said fifth-grade teacher Emily Almeida. “This trip really enhances how a bill becomes a law, which coincides with our studies of the different governments of the Western Hemisphere.”

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