On September 28, 2015, twenty-eight fourth grade students from Andover Elementary School visited the New Hampshire State House. After a brief stop in the visitor’s center, where they met Andover’s Representative, Mario Ratzki, they made their way to Representatives Hall, where the Representatives meet and vote. Our tour guide, Debbie, described how they receive, discuss, and vote on bills. She explained the “made-up” bill of year-round schooling to the students, and they were able to speak for or against it if they wanted to. The students then had the opportunity to vote on whether year-round schooling should be instituted in New Hampshire. Although the voting buttons were not on, it was evident that the majority of students WERE NOT in favor of year-round schooling! They ventured into the Senate Chambers, and then were able to meet Governor Hassan for a photo. She greeted them enthusiastically, told them about her job, and asked them a few questions.

They also met Senator Regina Birdsell, who took time out of her busy day to say hello to us. She represents District 19, which is comprised of the towns of Derry, Windham, and Hampstead.

Following the tour of the State House, they headed up to the N.H. Fish and Game Department, where they enjoyed lunch outside at the picnic tables. The stsudents explored the Discovery Room and saw several animals in their natural habitats, and a variety of N.H. landscapes and wildlife. In addition to a blue heron, beaver, fisher, and bobcat, they also saw a life-sized moose cow and her calf! But they weren’t alive – they have been preserved by taxidermy!

Heidi Murphy, New Hampshire Fish & Game Conservation Officer, showed us several animal pelts and the students were able to touch all of them! They all agreed the beaver pelt was the softest of them all.