It’s a scary time for many Americans as there is plenty of uncertainty regarding the economy and the safety of our country. Most of us have been glued to the television as we have kept an eye on the status of the economy and how a new President will impact the future of our country. The Willow Springs 8th grade student body has spent the past few weeks trying to understand the issues that surround this presidential election and the state of our country.

The 8th grade class of students, at Willow Springs Middle School, has been studying the nature of the American government. They have spent the past two weeks trying to study the differences between the two major political parties and what they stand for. For many students this has been the first time in their lives they have began to care about the impact the government has on them.

During the past few weeks, the students at Willow Springs have spent several days in the computer lab as they have spent lots of time working in groups, studying the differences between the two presidential candidates. Many students have found an interest in the differing opinions of the two candidates on things such as the economy, equal rights, and issues such as gun control and the death penalty.

Students have also spent time examining the nature of the media and its impact on the election process. Students have created their own posters which currently fill the hallway of the 8th grade. Students have spent time watching presidential debates and have even had an opportunity to watch a Saturday Night Live skit on the election as well. The students have discussed why voting is important and how one vote really can make a difference as they look forward to putting their mark on this year’s election.

It has been a very exciting time as a teacher as I have had the opportunity to field many interesting questions about foreign policy and family values. Students at Willow Springs Middle School will be debating some key issues in the upcoming weeks before they join together for a mock election on Super Tuesday, November 4th.

Submitted by Matt Perkins, 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher