Eleven Schools, 180 Students, Leaders Attend Brewster’s Student Government Day Seminar
Harrisburg – May 5, 2017 – State Sen. Jim Brewster’s seventh annual Student Government Day Seminar, held yesterday at Penn State Greater Allegheny in McKeesport, included 11 local schools, 180 students, political leaders from Allegheny and Westmoreland counties and an array of officials from Harrisburg, Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today.
“This was an incredible event for students,” Brewster said. “It gives students an opportunity to learn more about how an idea is transformed into legislation and passed into law.”
Students from South Allegheny, Auberle, Pittsburgh Job Corps, Gateway, McKeesport, East Allegheny, Kiski, Baldwin, West Mifflin, Plum and Clairton gained an understanding of the legislative process by debating a measure that calls for mandatory treatment for drug addiction.
The students attended two panel discussions before the plenary session. The first panel provided insight into the fundamentals of legislating. The second explored ways political parties are formed and what motivates citizens to join the political process. Students were then organized into parties, where they debated the merits of the proposed legislation.
“Our students gain so much from participating in the sessions. They gained knowledge about the inter-workings of the General Assembly and how a bill becomes law, and were able to interact with legislators, staff, lobbyists and public officials who are experienced public servants and experts in making laws,” Brewster said. “I want to thank the students, teachers, administrators and all those who were involved in making this event such a success. “
Brewster said that he also wanted to extend his appreciation to the officials from Penn State Greater Allegheny for the use of their facility and the assistance offered to ensure that the day was tremendous learning experience for the students.
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