Columbia students with Governor Kathy Hochul at the State of the State for Future Leaders event.
Students from Columbia High School’s Participation in Government class joined other high school and community college students from around the Capital Region on Monday when they attended Governor Hochul’s State of the State for Future Leaders at Hudson Valley Community College.
The fireside chat presented an opportunity for young people to learn more about the governor’s proposed investments in education and mental health services.
Students from Kelley Sheraw’s Participation in Government classes prepared questions in advance for Governor Hochul to answer during the event. Topics of interest for the students were the environment, mental health, and the use of cell phones in the classrooms.
“It was a great way for these students to see the top executive official in New York State go over the issues that she’s thinking about from their perspective, and our students really enjoyed the experience,” said Mrs. Sheraw.
Seniors Ei Aung and Shreya Malge said they were excited when they heard they were attending the event.
“I’ve never been in such close proximity with a high ranking official that can make so much change. It was really empowering,” said Malge.
“It’s really nice to know that the Governor and New York State knows that teenagers and younger generations are struggling with mental health issues and are trying to implement new bills and policies to help the younger generations,” said Aung.
The State of the State for Future Leaders followed last week’s Columbia’s Legislative Day, when Participation in Government students met two state legislators, Senator Jake Ashby and Assemblymember John McDonald who discussed their careers, how they entered politics, and how they serve constituents in state government.
About Participation in Government
Participation in Government is a required course for Columbia seniors. Students examine government at the local, state, and national levels, and develop skills that encourage lifelong participation in the process of government.