Thirteen students from Madison High School made the trip to Pierre for the annual Madison-DSU Host the Legislature event. The students represented different organizations from the high school and were accompanied by teaches Dana Gonyo and Christen Hildebrandt.

Madison High School Senior Grace Nelson said “I really enjoyed the visit to Pierre! It is great to see the leaders of our high school and community interact with the state government officials. I was incredibly grateful to have presented at the banquet as it is important for our representatives and members of the community to be kept up to date on MHS happenings. Personally, I was able to do some networking and visit with multiple representatives (both of our district and many others). Through such networking, I was given a glimpse into the culture of the state legislature and briefed on the happenings of our state. The consensus of the high school group was one of exaltation. There was truly something for everyone.”

Mrs. Gonyo said the students were able to observe our State Legislature in action during committee meetings and formal sessions. Also, the students had the opportunity to interact with District 8 Representatives and Governor Noem. The students displayed a great deal of appreciation and curiosity during the tour of the Capital Building and Cultural Heritage Museum.

Nelson and her fellow high school students were able to take the trip to Pierre thanks to funding from the Madison Central School Educational Foundation. This is the 8th year that the Foundation has provided the support for the MHS students to participate in the legislative trip.