Rep. Smith goes to Umatilla

UMATILLA – Civics class students at Umatilla High School recently learned firsthand about how a bill becomes a law. Oregon Rep. Greg Smith (R-Heppner) visited earlier this month and gave a hands-on lesson on the process. Students had already studied the lesson in their textbooks, but some said Smith made it come to life.

“Students participated in a hands on simulation that walked them through each step of the legislative process from an initial idea to debate and, ultimately, a vote,” the Umatilla School District reported in a news release. “Students took on roles such as state representative, governor, senator, lobbyist, and journalist, gaining a deeper understanding of how laws are made and the role elected officials play in shaping policy.”

Smith also answered questions and shared examples of recent bills that have gone into effect. The visit left an impression on the students.

“Something that surprised me about this whole complicated process was how easy it ended up being to understand,” student Brooke Gerard is quoted as saying. “I’m taking a whole class about the U.S. government and its bills and laws and none of it clicked easily. Rep. Greg Smith explained the process within a class period.”

Gerard said because the process was “so fun and quite easy to envision,” she is now considering it as a possible career path.

Photo from the Umatilla School District

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Elkhorn Media Group

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