Preston Students Checkout County Government

Fifth grade students at had the chance to debate some key issues recently during a visit to the Westchester County Board of Legislators.

Students were divided into four groups or committees and discussed issues including cell phone use during school, locker searches, smoking near restaurant entrances and calorie postings at fast food places in the county.

Through the debates students were able to gain a first-hand knowledge of the process that creates resolutions and laws in Westchester County.

"All year our students have been interested in how government works. The students acted as the full legislature, debated the issues and voted," said Library Media Specialist Thomasine Mastrantoni. "It was an amazing experience for them."

One of the students was selected to act as chairman of the board of legislators and one was clerk, the remaining students were legislators on the board.