WESTFIELD – Congressman Richard Neal returned to Westfield High School on Friday to speak with 45 students about civic engagement. According to Supervisor of Social Studies Jason Taylor, Neal followed his teaching with questions and answers, and was able to make a personal connection with the tenth and eleventh grade students enrolled in U.S. History II and AP History.
Taylor said that Neal spoke to the students about the importance of reading, and understanding that there are always two perspectives in an argument, and gave them a brief history of democracy.
“It was thoughtful and relevant, it really was,” Taylor said.
In turn, students asked the Congressman questions about gun control, relief efforts in Puerto Rico, and about immigration. Taylor said that Neal was able to generate excitement among the students, which made for a memorable and inspiring learning experience for them all.
In closing, Neal spoke about Bill Belichek’s eye for talent, proven by his selections of Sony Michel and Chris Hogan. He left with a prediction that the New England Patriots would win the Super Bowl.
“Richard Neal’s visit to Westfield High School was an outstanding opportunity for our students to learn first hand about our government and his role in it. Congressman Neal was honest and approachable with our students. It is important for students to know that even though he is in an important and influential position that he is human and that he is there to represent their needs and what is important to them. He even talked to the kids about the upcoming Super Bowl and predicted a Patriots win. I’m very grateful that he took time out of his busy schedule to work with our students,” said WHS Principal Charles Jendrysik.
“We are always pleased when Congressman Neal visits our schools. He was a former teacher and his lessons on government are not only interesting but also appreciated,” added Superintendent Stefan Czaporowski.
