Lennox high school students met with Sen. John Thune Oct. 12.
Eighty-five students from Madeline Voegeli’s government and civics classes attended the event that was held in the high school library. Government is a required class and civics is an elective so students from freshmen through seniors were in attendance. Voegeli said the students asked a variety of questions.
“Their questions were all written themselves and ranged from policy issues to personal matters. For example, one student asked about Israel, one asked about the economy and another asked about his biggest personal and professional achievements,” she said.
Thune talked to students about the importance of being a leader.
He also talked about the positive effects that come from listening to one another and understanding it is OK to disagree.
“Even when not in an official leadership position, students have the opportunity to lead from where they are by doing the right thing and making decisions that will better their futures,” Voegeli said.
Thune appreciates his visits with students.
“I always appreciate visits like these, because talking with South Dakota students about their hopes and dreams and concerns and ideas helps me do my work in the Senate,” Thune said. “These students are the next generation of leaders, and when I get the opportunity to sit down with them, it gives me hope for the future.”
Voegeli said it is important for students to hear from South Dakota’s representatives in Washington, D.C., because they should understand and learn about the people making decisions on their behalf.
“As a government and civics teacher, I don’t view it as my role to teach our students what to think, I want to teach them how to think. As they grow and become involved in the political realm, I want them to be engaged, effective and informed,” Voegeli said. “Remaining aware of policy, their politicians and being confident in their views on issues, our students will be well equipped to be capable constituents in the future.”