Indiana’s legislature does not meet year round; we are part-time, which has many benefits. To name a few, members representing the people don’t lose touch with their constituents. Legislators have to come back to their communities and live by the laws they created, more fully understanding the impact of each law, a perspective that can sometimes be lost by legislators on the federal level. I love being an educator, and I am honored to be state representative. It’s a humbling experience to serve in both of these capacities, thankfully in Indiana I can be both. Since we are only at the Statehouse for session 3-4 months a year, we take part in summer study committees to better understand and further research complicated issues facing Hoosiers.
This year, I am a member of the Midwestern Higher Education Commission and the School Safety Interim Study Committee. I am eager to dive into the issues that these committees will be addressing, including how to best protect Hoosier students and how to make Indiana’s higher education the best in the nation. Last session an issue on everyone’s mind was how to create the best and safest learning environment for students in Indiana. We made some headway, but there is plenty more to be done, and I plan on utilizing every minute of our time to find effective plans for Hoosier schools.
Once interim study committees begin, they will be broadcasted live, so anyone with computer access can watch the proceedings online. To watch a committee, please visit: www.in.gov/legislative. As we move along, I will be sure to update you on how these committees are progressing. Have a wonderful week!
