5th Graders Can Compromise!

Neighbors,

Want to know what might be done to protect the environment from plastic bag use and disposal? Just ask the 5^th graders at Rutherford Elementary School in Stillwater. We had a great time at Rutherford on last week—a full-fledged debate on the issue and a committee meeting with students taking on the roles of legislators.

Legislative Assistants Polly Cerkvenik and Simon Brown took turns with the gavel to moderate the discussion and debate. Fascinating and fun to hear Katie Papke’s students talk about their concerns—economics, the environment, community pride, and personal responsibility were all part of the debate. And the best part: they found a way to compromise!

One of the students I met listened to our discussion and debate on the environment and the problem of plastic bags. She raised her hand and spoke up with her opinion on the topic along with her classmates. When the students were leaving, she came over to talk to me: “Do you think you could pass a law that would let soldiers come home for Christmas? My uncle’s in the Army. I haven’t seen him for a long time and I really miss him.”

“I wish I could,” I said. “But that’s a law that would have to come from Washington and the President. It probably won’t happen until all of us in the world learn to live with each other in peace.”

“Do you know when that will happen?” she said.

I said that I didn’t, but hoped it would be soon. That's a law we should all vote for. 

Sincerely,

Rep. Steve Sandell