Students from Smithtown High Schools East and West traded their classrooms for the Suffolk County Legislature chamber last week, stepping into the roles of lawmakers during a hands-on mock legislative session in Hauppauge.
Hosted by Suffolk County Legislators Leslie Kennedy and Sal Formica at the William H. Rogers Legislature Building, the event gave students a firsthand look at how local government operates.
Participants from civics and social studies classes took their seats at the Legislature’s signature horseshoe, assuming positions as presiding officer, clerk, legislators and members of the public.
“It was wonderful to see these students engage in a mock legislative session today,” Kennedy said.
“I’m happy to speak to them about our roles and responsibilities and help them gain first-hand knowledge of how local government operates. The issues they debated are relevant to their everyday lives.”
Students debated real-world proposals previously considered by the Legislature, including a measure targeting illegal street racing and another focused on strengthening water quality protections.
After discussion and public-style testimony, the students voted to table the racing measure while approving the water quality legislation.
Formica said hearing students’ perspectives was a highlight. “It’s always a great pleasure to see our students in action, and to hear their perspectives on the very issues we debate as legislators ourselves,” he said.
For many participants, the experience offered new insight into public service.
“I honestly had an absolute blast acting as a legislator,” said Smithtown West senior Christian Agovino. “You learn just from being here that doing your homework is really imperative.”
Others said the session deepened their interest in government careers, while teachers praised the opportunity to bring lessons beyond the classroom. Officials said similar mock sessions will continue throughout the year, giving hundreds of Suffolk students a closer look at local democracy in action.