Dodd City ISD Elementary Student Government Visits the Texas Capitol
Dodd City ISD Elementary Student Government members Drew Chaney, Brailee Lindsey, Cheyenne Cole, and Hadley Shipman recently took an unforgettable trip to Austin, where they visited the Texas State Capitol and experienced a full day of learning, leadership, and inspiration.
While in Austin, the students toured the Capitol Visitors Center, the original Texas Land Office, and examined vintage transits once used by early land surveyors. They explored how Texas settlers obtained land and even mapped their land grants and had them officially stamped with the seal of Texas.
The group had the honor of meeting several state leaders. They visited with Senator Bryan Hughes, whose communications director showed the students Hughes’s collection of vintage working rifles and shared their fascinating histories. Senator Hughes also answered the students' questions about current legislation, including House Bill 2, which involves funding for public schools, and bills focused on cell phone use in schools. He gifted each student a pin featuring the American and Texas flags inscribed with Proverbs 3:5-6, which says,
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding."
Next, they met Representative Mark Dorazio, who has family connections to Dodd City, and discussed the state budget, a printed document nearly six inches thick. He encouraged the students to always seek God’s guidance in all things.
Representative Shelley Luther also took time to meet with the students. She shared her powerful personal story of surviving a brain aneurysm and multiple strokes, crediting prayer and faith for her recovery. She spoke about the sacrifices involved in public service and the importance of standing firm in your convictions. She inspired the students with her message that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to.
Each of the leaders left the Senate or House floor to meet personally with our students, offering time, attention, and encouragement.
The group also visited the Senate Gallery, where they listened to public testimony before a committee, and the House Gallery, where they observed a live debate on a bill. They enjoyed lunch at the Capitol Grill and concluded the day with a private tour of the Governor’s Mansion.
Brandon Chaney, Dodd City ISD School Board Member, called it “one of my top two favorite field trips of all time.”
This special trip was a well-deserved reward for a year of hard work and service. Alongside student government representative Caden Wilson, these students have dedicated themselves to their school and community. Their efforts include:
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Hosting Family Movie Night
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Visiting local nursing homes
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Sponsoring the Daddy-Daughter Dance
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Organizing the Mother-Son Gelly Ball event
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Supporting Hornet Pride Rallies
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Raising funds for new playground equipment
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And so much more.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Teresa Massie for her dedication and leadership throughout the year and to the parents for encouraging their children to serve others and be positive role models.
Dodd City ISD is proud of these young leaders and grateful for the opportunity to witness their growth and impact.
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