GENTRY, AR. — Gentry Middle School students had the opportunity to explore American and Arkansas history, learn more about how government works and experience a little of the legislative process firsthand during a visit from Arkansas State Sen. Tyler Dees today.
Dees, who represents Senate District 35, spent time with Gentry students discussing a wide range of topics, including the Founding Fathers, the U.S. Constitution, the history of the United States and his role as a member of the Arkansas General Assembly. Dees was elected to the Arkansas Senate in 2022 and sworn into office in January 2023.
The visit came as the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, providing an opportunity for students to connect the history they study in the classroom with the government and civic institutions they see today.
Dees shared stories about the founding of the country, the sacrifices made throughout its history and the ways those events helped shape the government established by the nation's founders.
Students also explored Arkansas history and government. Topics included Arkansas becoming the 25th state, the symbolism behind the stars on the Arkansas state flag and the preamble to the Arkansas Constitution. The 25 stars surrounding the diamond on the state flag represent Arkansas's admission to the Union as the 25th state.
The Arkansas Constitution's preamble begins with the words, “We, the People of the State of Arkansas,” and establishes the purpose behind the state's constitution and form of government.
Of course, the students also got a chance to experience a little of what happens when lawmakers have to make a decision.
Dees led students through a simulated Senate session, giving them an opportunity to debate and vote on an important issue: the school's official pizza flavor.
After some discussion and a vote, cheese pizza came out on top.
Perhaps most importantly, students were reminded that participating in government begins with understanding that their voices matter.
“You get to send people to be your representatives — in the federal government, the state government, and even with your local school board," Dees said. "Thanks to our Founding Fathers, you get a voice in our government and who you select to serve you.”
For Gentry students, it was a lesson that connected the pages of a history book to the world around them—and a reminder that having a voice is an important part of being an engaged citizen.