Borgia Engages Over 300 Fifth Grade Students in Mock Legislative Session

On Thursday, May 22nd, County Legislator Catherine Borgia paid a visit to Roosevelt school, where she led over 365 fifth graders in a mock legislative session. These mock sessions, a long tradition among legislators, are designed to give children an idea of how their local government works, and allow them to play an active role in the process. Every year hundreds of students get a unique, first-hand opportunity to get an inside look on how their county government functions.

This year, students were asked to pick an issue facing their school and to research and develop their pro and con position on it. Topics discussed included; whether or not cell phones should be allowed in schools, if standardized testing should be allowed, whether or not there should be a school uniform policy and the use of technology in school.

Once on the “legislative floor”, students were encouraged to actively debate and defend their positions, an activity that both the students and faculty typically find to be spirited. “It was exciting to watch and learn how the ‘whole thing’ (legislature) works, also watching our classmates get to run the meeting and use the gavel was great!” said Macy, a fifth grade student from Mrs. Knapp’s class. One of the key elements of policy discussion often includes the presentation of facts and arguments that contest a policy maker’s original opinion. This is something the students keenly discovered and worked through. 

“It was cool to see how a classmate can know how they want to vote and then hear an argument from a fellow classmate that makes them change their mind.” Said Anthony, another student from the same class.

Aside from being an exciting event, the Principal of Roosevelt, Dr. Reynolds, pointed out the educational value of such an exercise, affirming  “Mock Legislature events, such as the debates facilitated by Legislator Borgia last week at Roosevelt School, help prepare our students for the most important role they will have as adults -- the role of an actively participating citizen.  Understanding how to realize how rules and regulations determine their way of life, whether it is in the classroom or in mainstream society, how to express their opinions regarding those rules and regulations, how to respectfully present their opinions with facts and evidence, and how to actively listen to the opposing argument are all skills that will help to develop their political awareness and activism.”

“It’s always interesting to engage with young constituents. The fifth grade at Ossining Roosevelt School make me feel very hopeful for the future of our democracy,” said Catherine Borgia, Westchester County Legislator, representing the 9th district.

If you are interested in a mock legislative event, sessions are hosted year round on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays beginning at 9:30 A.M. lasting approximately 45 minutes per class at the county office, at 148 Martine Ave, in White Plains. Call (914) 995-2838 or email jns4@westchestergov.com to register.