6th Graders Attend Conservation Lobby Day in Richmond

Twenty four of our Tandem Friends 6th graders spent the day in Richmond for Conservation Lobby Day at the State Capitol, learning about civic process and how bills become law and talking to their local representatives about important legislation. They first met with Virginia Conservation Network, learning about current bills in committee. They then visited with Delegate Sally Hudson's staff (57th District), Delegate Chris Runion (25th District), and Senator Creigh Deeds (25th District) to learn about lobbying. They ended their day by listening to speakers and getting a tour of the Virginia Supreme Court. While participating, our students also ran into two former Tandem community members who were there to lobby - former Middle School Science teacher Christine Hirsh-Putnam (who used to be the person taking students to Conservation Lobby Day) and former parent Peggy Gilges. What an amazing experience for these civic-minded young people and future world citizens.