Over 300 homeschool students and parents joined the THSC Watchmen in Austin for THSC’s annual Capitol Days.The main focus of the event was for families to learn how to influence the legislative process, approach their elected representatives, and lobby for issues that matter to Texas families. During Capitol Days, attendees canvassed all 181 legislative offices, covering a large amount of ground in just two days.

Because of COVID-19, Capitol Days looked a bit different from previous years. THSC typically hosts the event in the Capitol’s auditorium. This year, because of social distancing, Texas legislators were hearing bills in the auditorium. Other rooms at the Capitol were also not open to outside events, so THSC hosted the event at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, two blocks down the street.

Additionally, most legislative offices required masks and a negative COVID-19 test. Capitol Days participants who planned to visit offices had to consent to COVID-19 rapid testing offered at the Capitol. Most legislative offices also required appointments, so attendees had to plan out their visits rather than spontaneously drop by offices.

Regardless of the extra challenges due to COVID-19, the event was still very successful. The Watchmen spent the week leading up to Capitol Days preparing materials for attendees. During the event, they were the boots on the ground. They helped students make their way from the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s headquarters to the Capitol and led discussion groups.