Sisters students get a taste of how politics is run

The Sisters School District's innovative approach to education has gained national attention, thanks in part to a visit by artist Leslie Satcher during the last Starry Nights concert series.

That visit led to a guest teaching session to be conducted this week by political and entertainment figures with influence on the national stage.

Ramona Lessen, executive assistant to Senator Bill Frist (R-TN), attended Satcher's concert and found several Sisters school programs to be both unusual and exceptional.

Lessen's husband, Joe Lessen (LTCP, DIA, MSAA), is the Director of Special Projects for Federal Affairs for AHIP, America's Health Insurance Plans. This organization is one of the major forces in legislation dealing with healthcare in the U.S.

"After seeing some of our classes, he asked if there was a way that he could participate ... a way that he could help," said teacher Jon Renner.

"We suggested that he could bring his expertise to our classrooms - right here in Sisters - and help teach a special class in how the political system actually operates. Surprisingly, he agreed, and also suggested bringing several others to help."

That includes Satcher and her husband, David Allen, a former radio executive and on-air talent in Texas who is now an actor as well as artist manager.

Satcher, who has written hit songs for artists including Gretchen Wilson, Vince Gill, Lee Ann Womack and Martina McBride and has released two of her own critically-acclaimed albums, is a two-time veteran of Sisters Starry Nights.

Satcher is working with the school's Americana Project students. Allen is working with students operating the FM radio station (KZSO) and Lessen will be working with the Real Politics class.

"Approximately 60 students will be immersed in the political process during the 70-minute Real Politics class, being guided by an expert in the field," Renner said. "At some point during the week, we hope to be participating in a video conference with Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) or Senator Gordon Smith (R-OR). Senator Wyden is the sponsor of another healthcare reform bill called The Healthy Americans Act - one that will be examined as an alternative to the program proposed by AHIP. It should make for an interesting series of debates."

Many have helped support this program, including the Sisters Schools Foundation, Shibui at FivePine, Murray and Holt Motors, the Best Western Ponderosa Lodge and Suites, Sisters Athletic Club and other local businesses and families.

For more information or to sit in on one of these classes contact the high school office at 549-4045.