On February 4, 2026, a select group of Scheck Hillel high school students, along with upper school social studies teacher Ms. Schulman and members of the NAACP, ventured to Tallahassee, Florida, to speak on behalf of Jewish students, Black students, and Florida citizens.
As one of those students, I speak for the amazing experiences each student and staff member had as the day progressed. The program leader assigned amazing captains who helped organize our day and make it even more special. With the partnership of students such as Jeremy Dejman ‘27, Kimora Ragin, Ethan Dean, and myself, this trip ensured that every student involved had the ability to speak about the issues the group came to present in front of senators, Florida representatives, and legal aides.
The bills and grants students presented were ones they felt connected most to their cause. One involves the renewal of a security grant for religious institutions and schools that would make the student population feel safer. The second is a human trafficking bill requiring mandatory training to spot human trafficking among nurses completing their degrees.
Alongside learning about the bill, students learned a shocking fact: over 700,000 Florida citizens faced trafficking in 2024. The final bill discussed was for a Title VI Coordinator to be placed among schools, so that students feel like they have a voice that will hear their concerns against discrimination and antisemitism. The importance of such lies in educating the next generation and allowing students to go to school comfortably, with a safe learning environment.
A different perspective on this enlightening day can be sourced from the trip’s chaperone, Ms. Schulman. She gave insights that illustrated why it is important for students to take the time and effort to speak to elected officials. The officials want to hear what they have to say, which has brought on a new appreciation for their efforts. Ms. Schulman also mentioned her surprise when “seeing how comfortable students appeared when talking to officials.” I, for one, was highly appreciative of Ms. Schulman’s perspectives and guidance throughout the process, as it set an air of comfort and confidence around the students participating.
Furthermore, students also got to experience the Florida House of Representatives being in session and do a mock-vote for a bill. In the case of the trip, students spoke about the Miami-Dade incinerator location in the Senate chamber. It was really fascinating to see how concerned each student was about a different aspect of the conflict.
After the day came to an end, I spoke to several students about their experience, and each spoke about how life-changing and great the day had been. This day had taught each student a new lesson; each of them possesses a voice and responsibility to speak up if something is amiss, as oftentimes, it is the students who want to be heard the most.
