Rep. Bob Grants Informs 7th Graders
by Jennifer Ferraro
April 30, 2008
State Representative Robert "Bob" Grant received letters from Mrs. Morris' 7th grade social studies students that voiced concerns, questions, and suggestions directed toward the state's school budget crisis and its implications for Frontenac USD 249. As a long time supporter of education, he called Mrs. Morris and said that he must come and speak to these students who took their time to write to him and who were are the front line of affects from state cuts to education. Rep. Grant explained that there are 13 days left in the current session for legislators and this probably wasn't enough time to get a state budget passed. He didn't know how long it would take, but he hoped for the best. Rep. Grant was excited to speak to the students and encouraged them to continue to be active citizens in their government. The 7th grade students were able to ask questions concerning their letters and the cuts that the state had implemented, which affect education. This was a culmination to a project that began with Dr. Slagle, Superintendent of Frontenac Schools, speaking to the class concerning the state budget, how education is funded, and what the cuts to Base State Aid per Pupil mean for USD 249. Students then took that information and wrote letters to Rep. Grant and Senator Bob Marshall. Rep. Grant was the only legislator to respond.
