October 17, 2024 Submitted by The Office of Representative Joan Meschino
On the morning of Wednesday, October 9th, the 5th grade class at East Elementary School in Hingham could be found sitting cross-legged on the classroom floor. This was no ordinary class, though. Representative Meschino (D-Hull) and Senator O’Connor (R- Weymouth) joined the students for a first-hand civics education lesson. The pair of legislators discussed how they became interested in politics and government, what policy priorities they are currently focusing on, and the different ways they work together on a variety of issues.
“I am always inspired by the curiosity and inquisitive nature of the students at East Elementary,” said Representative Meschino (D-Hull). “Politics is widely seen, and often for fair reasons, as a place of division. I think it’s a helpful reminder to have a Democratic Representative and a Republican Senator in the same room talking about areas where we agree and how we navigate disagreements. I look forward to our yearly visit. The students were wonderful and certainly made me feel optimistic about future generations.”
Arranged by Corey Martin, enrichment coordinator for the 5th grade, the annual visit from Rep. Meschino and Sen. O’Connor is a highlight for many students. Martin is one of multiple enrichment coordinators for the school’s PTO. They organize field trips and other programs for each grade. Principal Jonathan Hawes also attended Wednesday’s presentation.
“We were so grateful that both our State Representative and State Senator were able to take the time to talk to our 5th Graders,” said Martin. “We loved to see how well they worked together and to learn about all the exciting things they are working on at the State House.”
The 5th grade class is looking forward to their visit to the State House next month.
State Representative Joan Meschino represents the communities of Hingham, Hull, and Cohasset. Rep. Meschino and her Legislative Aides can be reached at the State House at 617-722-2092 or by email at Joan.Meschino@MAHouse.gov. To learn more about Rep. Meschino’s constituent services and legislative work, please visit www.JoanMeschino.com.