Week of January 14th – 18th
Legislative Preview on AM 950
I had the opportunity to speak with Brett Johnson from AM 950 on his radio show. It was a gratifying and insightful discussion about the responsibilities I have as a state senator and what to expect form the upcoming legislative session. I was also able to answer questions from those who called in. Thanks to Brett for having me. You can listen to our conversation by clicking HERE.
Catching up with former students
While at Eden Prairie High School, I got to see my former student Aubrey Sebastian, who is now attending the University of Minnesota and working as an undergraduate researcher.
Former student Laura Helgen is now working as the legislative assistant to Representatives Cheryl Youakim and Ginny Klevorn, who are both colleagues of mine representing the west metro area. I am happy to see Laura continuing her work in public service.
My first podcast appearance
I was recently invited to be on the Minnesota Association for School Administrators’ podcast, and had a great time catching up with the host, Jane Sigford, who is a longtime friend of mine. We discussed a wide range of issues including drug addiction, gun violence prevention, and reducing inequality. You can check it out by clicking HERE.
Taking civic engagement directly to the students
Earlier today I visited Hopkins High School for two hours during their lunch periods. It didn’t take very long before crowds of enthusiastic young people came to me with their ideas for how to make the world a better place.
I plan on continuing these conversations at Eden Prairie High School and Minnetonka High School, so stay tuned for details on when I’ll be visiting your school! You can check out the video I recorded in advance of the Hopkins event by clicking HERE.
Meeting our new Commissioner of Education
Mary Cathryn Ricker (center) was appointed as Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education after our new governor was sworn in, and Senators Kent, Wiger, Torres Ray, and myself had the opportunity to sit down with her. I could not be happier to see a teacher at the head of our state’s education system. As a fellow career educator, I am so excited for the students whose lives she will be improving.
Visiting Eden Prairie High School
This past week I also got to visit Tamara Sather’s class at Eden Prairie High School. I always love being back in the classroom, and am incredibly grateful for the many opportunities I have had to visit high schools as a senator.