Rep Patrick Jefferson
A resolution for House members to volunteer as substitute teachers passes in House Governmental Affairs and advances to the House Floor. Homer Representative Patrick Jefferson who also serves as vice-chair of House Education said this is a way for members to gain firsthand experience and also assist with the ongoing teaching shortage.
“What better way to assist in this effort than over 100 members of us doing what we have been called to do and that’s what we do every day which is serve,” said Jefferson.
Jefferson said he was inspired to author House Resolution 99 after Former House Speaker John Alario suggested other lawmakers volunteer in Louisiana schools in the past.
New Orleans Representative and former teacher Candace Newell spoke in favor of the resolution and said it’s important for lawmakers to serve in the education trenches casting votes impacting K-12 schools.
“And I would encourage more of my colleagues to participate in that especially when they are going to opine on what those teachers should do and what the parents should expect and what the parents should demand,” said Newell.
Baton Rouge Representative Barry Ivey also supported the legislation. He said while many lawmakers already volunteer in the community this is an ideal way to serve and have a better understanding of what teachers experience.
“Fulfilling the role of a substitute teacher, just kind of get that bird’s eye view of what our teachers have to endure every day in their labors to serve us and our children,” said Ivey.
The resolution advances to the House floor.
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