GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – Scholars at Aberdeen Academy are asking lawmakers to solve a problem – Michigan’s lack of an official state insect.
Ms. Emma Witkovsky’s fifth-grade class invited Rep. Rachel Hood, who represents the Aberdeen neighborhood in the Michigan House of Representatives, to see a presentation on Dec. 6 on why the stonefly should receive the honor.
“The stonefly detects if our water is clean or dirty,” Aberdeen scholar Jamari Lambert explained. “If you don't see stoneflies, it's not good.”
“I started making a book that had just some basic information, when I got to Michigan, I realized there wasn't a state insect,” Witkovsky said about the origin of her advocacy. She realized it was a perfect opportunity for her scholars to learn about nature and politics. “They can be scientists, they can test water quality, they can become a representative. They can write laws themselves. And it's just empowering them to be better than what they were yesterday.”
During the 2023-24 school year, Rep. Hood introduced House Bill No. 5563 to designate the stonefly as Michigan's official state insect, inspired by a campaign led by Witkovsky’s class. The class also presented their findings to the Grand Rapids Board of Education.
Although the bill is still awaiting a hearing from lawmakers, Witkovsky’s current class has taken up the mantle, continuing the advocacy with renewed determination.
“This is an important skill that these young people will be able to take forward into their entire lives,” Rep. Hood explained. “They'll know how to make change in their communities as a result of going through this process.”
If the bill is passed by the state house committee, it will head to the House of Representatives for a vote.
“I'm so proud of us for doing all of this stuff to make a law,” Jamari exclaimed.
