Helped in part from the Harris Department of Education (HCDE) Civic Engagement team, Fortis Academy students visited the Capitol in Austin on March 26 and met with state legislators and their team representatives.

Students met Reps. Ron Reynolds and Lauren Ashley Simmons, who discussed the opportunities for graduates in career and technical education programs in addition to giving them inspiration to become leaders – even in the political space.

Sandwiched between were visits to the offices of Sen. Carol Alvarado and Rep. Senfronia Thompson. Trip attendees met with office staff at both locations, learning the operations side of a legislative office. College interns in Rep. Thompson’s office even discussed future careers in public service or as an elected official.

Trips like these show future possibilities to our Harris County learners while also engaging them in government and civic engagement. Student feedback included wanting more time to meet with others at the Capitol and possibly visiting legislators at their more local district offices.