Seventh- and eighth-grade students from Robert M. Finley Middle School attended the annual YMCA New York Youth and Government program at the Holiday Inn Express Conference Center in Latham, New York, near Albany, from Nov. 15-17.

The New York Youth and Government program is a model state legislature where hundreds of New York State’s brightest sixth- to eighth-graders gather to debate the important legislative issues of their communities and state. Students have the opportunity to take over the Assembly and Senate chambers for a day to discuss their ideas. In addition, they write bills and attempt to make them law by acting as representatives and senators in the actual statehouse chambers.  

Coordinator for Social Studies Sheena Jacob expressed her gratitude to the Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maria Rianna, the central administration, Robert M. Finley Middle School’s administration, faculty and staff, and advisers Jacklyn Burnett, Adam Cirnigliaro and Tracy Roberts, for supporting and encouraging the youths to find their voices and to research important policies that they wish to change, revise or support.

Ms. Jacob also congratulated the students on a job well done, saying, “We are very proud of your hard work and dedication you have put forth into this program.”