Congressman Todd Rokita Visits Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School

United States Representative, Todd Rokita, of Indiana's 4th District, honored the students of Yeshivah of Flatbush with a visit a few weeks ago. Congressman Rokita, a Republican and Chairman of the House subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education, came to discuss what it is like working in Congress and how our participation in our great nation can reshape our lives.

From the start, Rokita was witty and on his feet. He was truthful and honest, and made a point to say he will speak nothing but the truth. Rokita was filled with humor, but stood his ground on his policies and was serious when the matters called for it. For example, when asked by one of Ms. Kaplowitz's AP Political Science students how he felt about ObamaCare and on his stance on the government shutdown last year, Rokita said that he still believes ObamaCare is insidious and not right. He also said he thought voting to shut down the government was the right thing to do, and said he would do it again if the situation deemed necessary. Rokita answered many more questions from many more students as well.

Rokita, who had the undivided attention and wholly participation of every student, reminded students on what it means to be an American citizen. He reminded us of Benjamin Franklin's doubt in this great republic, and said the only way we can prove that doubt wrong is if we continue to participate. Rokita's inspirational words got the room on its feet a couple of times for we were all clapping and cheering him on. Rokita and our very own Ms. Kaplowitz discussed some politics as well. Their discussion showed us students what it was really like in the political world of today, and opened many of our eyes.

This was a once in a lifetime experience, and I think all the students felt very happy and honored to have Congressman Rokita speak to the students of Yeshivah of Flatbush.
~Dylan Sutton, class of 2016