Longwood's Annual Legislative Day Brings Government to the Classroom

Longwood High School welcomed local government leaders and civic representatives on Thursday for a day dedicated to inspiring the next generation of engaged citizens. The annual event, part of the district's Seal of Civic Readiness Program and College and Career Pathways initiative, connected more than 1,300 high school students with public servants across all levels of government.

Organized through a partnership between the Social Studies Department and the Board of Education's Legislative Committee, the program brought local officials into 50 classrooms spanning grades 9-12. Both Social Studies and select English courses participated in the initiative, exposing students to real-world perspectives on civic responsibility and public service careers.

Distinguished guests included Senator Anthony Palumbo, Senator Dean Murray, Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, and Emily Murphy, Chief of Staff to Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay, Suffolk County Executive Edward P. Romaine joined Suffolk County Legislators Chad Lennon, Dominick S. Thorne, and Nick Caracappa. Law enforcement was represented by Suffolk County Police Assistant Deputy Commissioner Drew Biondo and Deputy Undersheriff Keith Taylor. Also participating were Longwood Board of Education member Gina Pozzolano Gebbia and Longwood Alliance President Gail Bailey.

During interactive sessions, students explored pressing questions about governance, community involvement, and pathways to public service. Representatives shared personal experiences about their journeys into civic work, including the challenges they've overcome and the rewards of serving their communities.

The day featured a particularly meaningful collaboration as Suffolk County Legislators Chad Lennon and Dominick Thorne worked directly with Princeton Model Congress students to draft and refine legislation that will be presented at the program's annual congress meeting in November. The hands-on experience gave students real insight into the legislative process from bill conception through final language.

"These conversations between our students and public servants are truly invaluable," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lance Lohman. "When students see firsthand how our government works and witness the commitment of those who serve, it transforms civic engagement from an abstract concept into something tangible and achievable right here in their own community. We're grateful to our local leaders for investing their time in our students and showing them that their voices and ideas truly matter."

Behind the scenes, more than 25 student leaders from the student government and the Legislative Committee helped orchestrate the day's events, welcoming guests and documenting the experience through photography.

The program reinforces Longwood's commitment to developing civically engaged graduates prepared to contribute meaningfully to their communities