During school hours, Kansas Sen. Jerry Moran came to tour BVNW. Executive student government leaders familiarized Moran with the school and explained multiple aspects of BVNW and students’ lives.

Moran said that he tours 20 to 30 schools a year across Kansas. He visits different sized schools and different districts as well.

“My goal is to make sure I have an understanding of what is going on,” Moran said. “I want to make sure good education is happening in Kansas and it gives me the chance to meet administrators and teachers.”

Junior Ben Murdock, treasurer of the executive board, said he was surprised to hear it was happening, but was excited to be able to give Moran a tour of the school.

“Preparation was very minimal,” Murdock said. “I learned this morning that he was coming, so there was not much time to do anything.”

While Moran was at BVNW, he visited with teachers and was able to see the school as a whole.

Along with that, Murdock said he and the board’s main goal was to show off BVNW and all the things it has to offer.

“We took him through the halls and explained to him the specialized programs that we have,” Murdock said.

Among other things, Moran was able to talk and question the student ambassadors of the executive board. Conversation included different aspects of BVNW and the lives of the students.

The students were also able to ask about his career and how he got to where he is today. Specifically, Moran said an important part about his job is being able to connect with everyone he encounters.

“I actually think the most important aspect [of my job]… is the relationship you have with your people,” Moran said.

Due to the lack of time, Murdock said it was a bit chaotic, but overall the visit was successful.

Murdock said his biggest takeaway in meeting with Moran was how personable and genuine he was.

“Meeting with the senator makes you realize they are more of a person than they’re depicted  in the media,” Murdock said. “It establishes a better connection with the person that… is representing you.”

While Moran travels to different schools, he said he valued education and was appreciative of the teachers and administration at BVNW.

“I’m of the view that we change the world one person at a time,” Moran said. “It happens in classrooms every day.”