Technology brings U.S. Congressman into the classroom

SIKESTON -- Technology enabled some Sikeston High School students to have a live video chat with their U.S. representative in Washington, D.C., Friday during their advanced placement government class.

Sikeston High School students in Sarah McGill's AP government class participated in the live conversation with Eighth District Congressman Jason Smith, who was in his office in Washington, D.C.

It was Smith's first live video chat with students in his district, and it was also a first for McGill and her class.

"Congressman Smith had visited our school last spring and did a tour of the building," McGill recalled. "He popped in this classroom and said he would contact us again sometime."

Three weeks ago Smith's office contacted McGill and arranged the chat, McGill said.

As one of the youngest members of Congress, Smith said Friday's chat is part of his finding new ways to engage with constituents through technology. His hope is the talks will spark an interest for students in civic responsibility, government and public service."

"We wanted our first 'congressman classroom' with you," McGill told the SHS students as the live video chat began Friday.

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