Johnston Middle School Students Take to the State Capitol

student took to the Iowa Sate Capitol in early March.

About 70 students in Kristy Mundy's ninth-grade language arts class visited the Capitol as part of their persuasion unit.

Students were able to meet with several state Representatives and learned about the legislative process.

Anesa Kjtozovic, a democratic representative from Waterloo, told students about her journey to become involved in politics.

Students also heard from lobbyists, including Julie Smith, who told them of her role and how she advocated for bills.

A tour of the building included stops at the Governor's office, Senate and House chabmers and a trip to the balcony rotunda.

As part of their until and in preparation for the trip, the students first met with a former lobbyist, MaryAnn Nielsen, who gave teem tips about advocacy.

Each student chose a cause and researched information and potential legislation regarding the issue.

Students then either had a face-to-face meeting with a state representative or sen an e-mail explaining their cause and the action they wished the legislator take.