We extend our thanks to senior Rose Tobiassen for her outstanding response to the article "Cafeteria flat screen television a testament of SGA poor prioritizing". We would also like to thank the newspaper for its concern in the spending of student government funds. It is an important process in which every student has the right to be informed.

The process includes asking multiple MHS representatives (including teams and clubs) during congress, which will resume second semester, for ideas and their opinions. When the SGA opened the floor for discussion last year about the TVs, there was no objection. In fact, the groups of students were excited for the new privilege. We then had to get the approval from our sponsors and our principal, who must approve all spending of our funds.

Ned Burchfiel had good ideas on what the SGA should spend students' money on; however, the fact of the matter is that we are unable to make these ideas a reality due to certain Fairfax County restrictions. Things we can and do spend money include decorations for Homecoming, and most recently gels for the lights. We know students do not want to dance under fluorescent lights and also want a certain atmosphere at Homecoming that we do our best to supply. Additionally, we provide all the equipment for the pep rallies which include t-shirts, pies and decor, along with the free face painting. The contract is about to expire, and we are currently investigating a new one to continue providing this privilege. We have funded this for all students and we are hoping to get faster and more efficient copiers.

We encourage all students to bring ideas to Congress or to our meetings, which take place during all lunches on red days in Rooms B175/177. If not possible, feel free to approach any one of the SGA representatives at anytime.







-Your Student Council