Schools and the state's water supply were on the mind of state lawmakers Thursday as they met with Big Country politicians and community leaders.

The Texas Midwest Community Network invited the lawmakers to sit on a panel and share their thoughts with the communities they represent. they also came to prepare for next year's legislative session.

"It's so important we hear from other members of the House and Senate and from all the different, small towns," Rep. Jim Keffer (R) said. "Together they make a great voice."

State education was highly discussed by both lawmakers and attendees.

Standardized testing, school financing and accommodating all students were on House Representative Susan King's mind.

"It's a good time to go back and look at that again and see if we're doing the right thing," Rep. King (R) said. "If we want students to truly succeed, we have to meet them at the level where they're at."

King, along with other lawmakers, said they want to place more value on students who choose technical education over four-year college degrees.

The state's $53 billion water plan was another hot topic.

"This session, we have to have the backbone and the fortitude," Rep. Keffer said. "I hope the people of the big country will call their members and tell them we have to fund the water plan for the future of not only the State of Texas, but especially where we live."

The Lawmakers Luncheon Program is held every other year, between legislative sessions.