Two of Santa Maria High School’s FFA members were recently selected to step into the roles of California’s State Legislators during the Sacramento Leadership Experience.

Graduating seniors Jorge Gonzalez and Alondra Novoa were assigned a specific California district and spent four days learning about government, issues in agriculture and ethics, water and natural resources, food and nutrition, and education.

At the end of the week, the pair had the opportunity to conduct mock legislation they had drafted during the conference on the chamber floor of the state senate or assembly.

The students also had the opportunity to meet and speak with legislators representing the Santa Maria area including Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson and Assembly Member Katcho Achadjian.

Gonzalez said “Being on the actual senate floor, where laws are passed, and where senators debate, was truly amazing. The week was an incredible experience and was filled with amazing opportunities. Meeting with local legislators was an experience that not many people have and I am grateful. Thank you California FFA. ”

Novoa stated “I had such a remarkable time taking the role of a legislator and learning the whole process of how laws get passed as well as debating them on the assembly floor. This was an amazing experience that not every student gets, and I am very thankful I was given this opportunity. ”

Each year, only sixty FFA senior members from California earn the right to attend the California FFA premier capstone conference, according to Shannon Powell of the SMHS Agriculture Department.