Plainfield – State Representative Mark Batinick
(R-Plainfield) was honored to attend a full assembly at Kennedy Middle School
to discuss his first year in state government, and also answer questions from
the cheerful group of 7th graders. He also helped applaud the
students that scored high marks on their Constitutional exams.
Principal AJ Hundal opened the assembly with some
wonderful remarks, highlighting his immigration to America at the age of 12,
and the pride he felt in passing his own Constitutional test, which allowed him
to be sworn in as a Citizen of the United States. He introduced Rep. Batinick as
a member in the process of democracy, and an individual excited to explain all
that democracy does for Americans.
Rep. Batinick stated, “I truly enjoyed meeting
with so many kids and some of their parents and teachers for what was a
fantastic awards assembly. They even brought out the band and chorus, which
played and sang wonderfully. I wanted to reiterate much of what Principal
Hundal had to say about appreciating all that we had in America, and I
wanted the kids to understand that the number one job in government is with the
people. Democracy isn’t a spectator sport, and it’s the job of all citizens,
and the people that represent them, to remain in communication so that the will
of the people is understood. It was important to me that the kids understand
that soon they will be voters, and it’s important they express their concerns
and be active participants in their government and community. I thank them for
listening to me and showing such great school camaraderie.”
Rep. Batinick elaborated on questions from the
middle schoolers that included his work in Springfield, his favorite and most difficult
tasks, and his motive in becoming a State Representative. He then helped
applaud students for their accomplishments on their Constitutional exams, and
helped hand out their medals.
Social Studies teacher Donna Hebreard said, “I
thank Rep. Batinick for coming in and speaking on the government and social
aspects that we teach about every day, and the issues surrounding them, and
being an active participant in them. This was a great assembly for our students
and their parents to enjoy.”
Please Click Here for Video of the Question & Answer portion of the Assembly.