Thursday, June 3rd I was pleased to take part in a “reverse town hall” with representatives of the school districts in the 73rd legislative district. Superintendent Linda Henke hosted the gathering in the library of Maplewood-Richmond Heights High School.
A “reverse town hall” is one where others do the bulk of the talking and I listen.
Also participating in the discussion were: MRH Asst. Supt. Nelson Mitten and board members Nelson Mitten, Maria Langston, Lamar Agard, Ralph Posley, Brooke Rintoul, Steve Findley; Brentwood Supt. Charles Penberty and board member Keith Rabenberg; Webster Groves Supt. Sarah Riss and board members Janet Hamill, Michael Kearney and Steven Loher; and Clayton school board member Susan Buse.
We had a lively discussion of many issues that arise in the legislature which directly impact our schools - budget cuts, open enrollment, school funding formula, charter schools and school lunch nutrition.
The consensus?
Individual school legislative committees will be organized to stay on top of fast paced bills, assist me in tracking legislation and provide needed testimony.
We all agreed that this was just the FIRST in many discussions to come and truly informative.
Thanks to everyone who attended.