Commack Students Take Over Suffolk Legislature

Commack High School seniors traded classrooms for the Suffolk County Legislature, getting a firsthand lesson in democracy during mock legislative sessions at the William H. Rogers Legislature Building in Hauppauge.

Students assumed the roles of lawmakers and citizens, debating legislation, questioning speakers and casting votes on proposed local laws. The students considered regulations governing electric scooters and electric-assist bicycles, along with legislation requiring single-use beverage straws and stirrers to be provided only upon request.

“I am honored to represent students that are eager and were willing to come and learn about how our local legislative processes work,” said Legislator Sal Formica.

Presiding Officer Anthony A. Piccirillo praised the program, emphasizing the importance of civic education.

“Having the chance to learn how local government works is an invaluable opportunity to enhance civics among our young people,” Piccirillo said.

Students Jack Gonis, Amilia Soto-Soler and Raymond Tucker shared their experiences following the sessions.

“What I learned today was that lawmaking can actually be a pretty enjoyable job for a lot of people,” Gonis said. “I got to engage with my peers, which was probably the best part of it.”

Soto-Soler said the experience revealed the challenges of government.

“I thought it was truly informative, and it showed firsthand just how difficult it is to pass these laws or bills,” she said.

Tucker discovered a potential career interest.

“I discovered a little bit of something about myself -- that I may be interested in doing this one day!” Tucker said.

Commack High School economics and government teacher Chris Denton praised the opportunity.

“For us, I think it was a great hands-on learning experience about local government,” Denton said.