Westchester Day School seventh grade students had the unique opportunity to meet with a special guest—County Legislator Judah Holstein, who not only serves our community but also shares a special connection with our school. A former student of Westchester Day School, Judah Holstein (class of ‘83) returned to campus to speak with seventh graders about the importance of civic engagement and local government. This visit connected to the lessons the seventh grade recently completed during their units on U.S., N.Y. state, county and local government with Ms. Roode in social studies class. Speaking with a county legislator about his role in government, his motivations for running for office, his accomplishments and goals enhanced students’ understanding of county government. Representative Holstein helped bring the middle school civics curriculum to life by sharing bills and acts he has sponsored and by answering students’ questions. Students especially appreciated the connections he shared with WDS, their shuls and their communities. WDS is grateful to Legislator Holstein for taking the time to visit and for sharing his experiences with the students.