Former Obama staffer speaks with SMCC students

SANDUSKY — On Wednesday, students in a Sandusky Central Catholic high school government class received the opportunity to speak with Johanna Maska. Maska worked in the Obama administration as part of his communications team for eight years. Currently, she speaks to a number of news and media outlets about current political issues. During the Zoom meeting, Johanna first gave students background about who she is and some of the tasks she completed while working for a former commander in chief. "It is an extraordinary honor to work with a president of the United States," Maska said. "I had the chance to work with (Obama) as a senator as well. I appreciate that he would challenge us to be better." Afterward, students were encouraged to ask questions about her involvement in government. "It is important to hear from a person who is on the inside of the government, who is knowledgeable in the world and in politics and in national issues," said Steve Kohler, the school's government teacher. Student Jillian McGuire asked a question about one of Maska's speeches that the class had watched together. "She gave both sides of the argument, gave a claim and counterclaim, I enjoyed that aspect." Another student, Joseph Kolar, talked about the experience. "I enjoyed getting to hear from a former White House official and getting to hear about the different opinions and views on today's issues. I also liked learning about the current political landscape." Kohler hopes the meeting opened up students' minds to new ideas. "I also hope that they learned a little bit more about what role the U.S. plays in the world and how they can play a part in that."