Honors Gov. and Politics Takes a Deep Dive into Civic Engagement

10/10/2024

This October, the Honors Government and Politics Course is practicing civic engagement face-to-face with state and local candidates running for election and reelection.

Social Studies Teacher Jillian Joyce explains that this year, Honors Government and Politics looks a little different from other years: “In an election year, the political component really comes to the forefront with students researching candidates and inviting them in to speak to our class.”

This year fifteen candidates responded to students’ invitations to visit class. On Tuesday, Robin Chesnut-Tangerman, Representative from the Rutland-Bennington District which covers Tinmouth, Middletown Springs, Wells, Pawlet, and Rupert, joined Joyce’s class to answer student questions on his political platform and beliefs.

10th grader Weston Graf introduced Chesnut-Tangerman, sharing some biographical information and details about his legislative role. Students then peppered Chesnut-Tangerman with questions, starting with, “What does supporting small farms mean when it comes to politics?” and “Can you explain Act 250 to us?” and ranging to topics like the opioid crisis and abortion and women’s rights.

Chesnut-Tangerman, whose career path has included carpentry, teaching, and selling real estate, comfortably shared his view points, emphasizing his focus on a “philosophical underpinning” that helps to guide his representation of Rutland-Bennington constituents.

Over the course of three weeks, students have had or will have the opportunity to speak with these candidates: