High school class features political forums

“There are intricate things that go into running a government,” observes Waseca High School senior Henry Huttemier. “It was interesting listening to the different candidates. They had different ideas sometimes, but they all seemed to be seeking office because they want to serve the public.”

 

About 20 Waseca high school students are taking part in a year-long political science class taught by local social studies teacher John Hanson. Because of an arrangement with the University of Minnesota “College in the Schools” program, students are earning high school and college credits simultaneously.

 

As part of the course, students have helped coordinate three political forums which were recorded and posted online. Offices presented have been for the Waseca school board, the city council and mayor, and Minnesota House seat 19B.

 

On Oct 28, students heard from Democratic candidate Zach Meyman and incumbent Republican Tom Sexton on issues including the state budget, funding of education, data centers, and fraud.

 

Describing their impressions afterward, class members Elliott Galle, Eryn Harrison and Huttemier said the forums, and the chance to meet and interact with candidates in person, have broadened their perspective regarding politics in general and elections particularly.

 

“It’s not the party, it’s the person,” observed Harrison. She describes having been able to build an understanding of the candidates as people rather than only names on a ballot. That understanding, she continues, extends to the entire election process. “You want to find out who they are,” she suggests.

 

Galle says she values compassion in a leader, while she also acknowledges some level of aggressive leadership might be needed to accomplish goals or projects. “I guess I’m looking for some level of happy medium,” she states. She and Harrison both observe that, as they heard statements from Sexton and Meyman, they appreciated it when each provided evidence and illustrations to support their positions.

 

Both also express gratitude for the class and the opportunities it affords them–including the chance to earn credits toward their future college careers.

 

“There’s so much I wouldn’t have realized without forums like this,” Galle states. Where she probably would not have before, she says she is now fairly likely to attend future political debates or events.

 

Huttemier, the only one of the three old enough to vote, says he plans to be casting a ballot come election day. He says the forums have helped him understand how important it is to the political process.

 

The three explain students can register for the College in the Schools course only if invited. They have appreciated the academic challenge of the college-level curriculum, and the specific subject matter they have covered so far.

 

Instructor Hanson has been teaching the course since 2008, and says he regards it as a privilege. “Every year, there’s growth,” he comments. “It’s enjoyable to see how their perspectives change from starting in the fall to when we’re finishing up in the spring. I’m glad to say we can send them out as graduates who will be ready to make real contributions to their communities.”