Latino students reach out to legislators


March 11, 2013 · 1:09 PM

More than 50 Kent School District students attended the Latino Education Achievement Project (LEAP) Conference Feb. 28-March 1.

LEAP is an annual event that attracts state leaders, educators, parents and students throughout Washington. About 800 people attended last year's LEAP Conference.

The conference featured workshops, speakers, an opportunity to meet with legislators and a banquet. It is an opportunity to learn about issues affecting Latinos, including education, college, community involvement and leadership.

Students were nominated by teachers and principals and needed permission from their families to attend. All participants were required to attend several meetings and all events at the conference. Six adult chaperones went with the students and shared in the experience.

"This is a great opportunity for students to see how the governing process works and have opportunities to meet with their elected leaders and talk about issues that are important to the students," said Israel Vela, executive director of Student & Family Support Services.

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