Senator Flanagan Visits Selden Students

John J. Flanagan

January 25, 2011

Senator John Flanagan (2nd Senate District) recently visited the entire 5th grade class at the New Lane Elementary School in Selden to discuss the New York State Senate with the students.  Senator Flanagan spoke to the students after being invited by some of their classmates who took part in a Veteran’s Day celebration at the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook.

During his visit to the school, Senator Flanagan discussed his role in the legislative process, his efforts to protect the residents of the 2nd Senate District and other topics that provided the students with an overview of how New York State government operates.

As part of the discussion, Senator Flanagan organized the students into the two houses of the New York State Legislature, the Senate and the Assembly, so that they could play the role of legislators and vote on legislation as members of the government.

The students ended the meeting by asking Senator Flanagan questions that were important to them about the state and local issues.

"The children  appreciated Senator Flanagan coming to see them, and they truly enjoyed being virtual members of the State Legislature for the day.  They now understand that our representatives do not have an easy job, but one that can be very rewarding and helpful,” said New Lane Elementary Principal Diane Trupia.

"It is great to be able to bring state government directly to the students so they can learn about their state.  I thank the students for their attention during our meeting and for their thoughtful comments and questions.  These fifth graders are the future leaders of our community and it was my privilege to provide them with an overview of their state government,” stated Senator Flanagan.