Upper School Students Experience Politics at Harvard Model Congress

In an extraordinary learning opportunity that allows students to experience the legislative process, four St. Margaret’s students traveled to San Francisco last weekend to take part in the Harvard Model Congress government simulation.

History teacher Rocky Parker has taken AP government students to Harvard Model Congress for years, recognizing its ability to bring experiential learning to students.

“It replicates government very well,” Mr. Parker said. “Harvard Model Congress allows students to see the legislative process up close, and represent actual lawmakers in the process.”

The Tartans participating this year were seniors Jaden Cloobeck, Aaron Garfinkle and Alexis Fintland, and junior Joey Westendorf.

Representing actual legislators—Alexis, for example, was California senator Kamala Harris working in the Senate Judiciary Committee—the students worked to write, present and debate legislation. The students wrote bills on issues ranging from domestic terrorism to copyright laws.

In the end, Aaron received “Best Delegate” recognition for his work in the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, while Joey received an honorable mention for her work in the Cabinet.

“I’m proud of these students,” Mr. Parker said. “They showed a passion toward their role, worked hard and represented St. Margaret’s very well.”