Speaker of the House Todd Richardson walked into the Poplar Junior High Tuesday expecting to discuss legislation with students in the "I'm a Citizen, Too" class.
He quickly learned he was being honored by the students for his work over the past eight years in the Missouri House of Representatives.
"It's wonderful what he does for the people of Poplar Bluff and all the people he serves," instructor Jan Desgranges said. "He is not a politician, he is a man of the people."
During his time in the House, Richardson has treated Desgranges' classes to tours of the House floor, the Capitol Building, the Governor's mansion and even put the group in contact to sing at Springfield Cardinals' baseball games.
In a play on "This is Your Life," Richardson was treated to his life's story profiled through a slideshow of photos from childhood to present.
Richardson was then presented with a plaque from the students expressing their appreciation for his generous support and service to their class.
"I thought the program was really nice and maybe a little embarrassing," Richardson said with a smile. "These kids put in so much work and it was really nice."
Telling the students they were the next generation of leaders, Richardson said he believes civic responsibility and public service at a young age is important.
"That is something that I got a chance to learn at a young age and I hope this generation of kids gets to learn that at a young age as well," he said.
Richardson hopes the children will spread the word to other potential students for the "I'm a Citizen, Too" class of all the fun and opportunities they received by seeing how some of their state government operates.
Desgranges said students over the years have been able to learn from Richardson's knowledge and experience.
"He has done amazing things for our class," she said.
Desgranges has been teaching the "I'm a Citizen, Too" class for almost 30 years with the help of her daughter, Kathy Pattillo.
Students in sixth through eighth grades are recommended by teachers to be a part of the summer class through good grades, no disciplinary referrals and leadership.
They spend four weeks of their summer break learning democratic principals, patriotism and how to be a good citizen.