Jeff Rivero: Cannella staffer helped students understand government

I am a government teacher at Yosemite High School. One of the many subjects I teach is how our nation, state and local governments work, and how my students can get involved with the governmental process. And while these are valuable lessons, nothing compares to having someone who has hands-on experience explain what it’s like to work for a state representative.

On Dec. 4, Theresa Hong, a representative from Senator Anthony Cannella’s office visited my government classes, explained how the senator represents his constituents and how he develops legislation, as well as gave an overview of how our state government works. She also encouraged students to become more actively involved by participating in the senator’s “There Ought to Be a Law” contest, which is for anyone interested in proposing legislation. It is my hope that my students will participate and submit what they think would make a stronger state, city and community.

As a teacher who has taught for decades, I understand our future is in the hands of the children we teach. I am happy that Sen. Cannella recognizes the importance of not only participating in the educational process, but actively encouraging our youth to become more involved in their government. I would like to thank his staff for acknowledging our youth have a voice and that their voices will be heard.

This story was originally published December 11, 2014 at 11:28 AM with the headline "Jeff Rivero: Cannella staffer helped students understand government."