This week, students, parents, and educators from Allen ISD and districts across Texas traveled to Austin for PTA Rally Day 2025, continuing a long-standing tradition of advocating for public education at the state Capitol.
The day began at 4:30 a.m. as buses departed Allen High School, filled with students, PTA members, and staff.
The day's first event was the Texas PTA Student Caucus where Isaiah Fields, Allen High School Student Body President, was chosen as one of five students from across Texas to participate. During the panel discussion, Isaiah shared insights on student engagement and how his school has implemented initiatives to encourage participation in extracurricular activities.
"A lot of people tend to get pushed to the background," Isaiah said. "We really want to make sure that everyone has a voice, so we've created strong programs to encourage engagement."
Highlighting an initiative that rewards students with privileges, Isaiah also addressed the challenge of motivating students to get involved.
"The biggest challenge we face is getting students to want to be involved," he said. "There are so many opportunities, but it's their choice if they want to take part. We need to boost engagement between students and teachers to create a more connected school environment."
Following the student caucus, participants walked to the South Steps of the Capitol for the main Rally Day event.
Principal Matt Russell, along with students Isaiah Fields, Daelyn Knight, and Autumn White, met with state officials. They discussed policies that affect student engagement and mental well-being and presented representatives who serve parts of Allen ISD with a custom-made gift from Allen ISD STEAM Center students.
After a full day of advocacy, the group departed Austin, stopping for dinner before arriving back at Allen High School at 7:30 p.m. The experience reinforced the importance of student voices in shaping education policy and demonstrated the power of active civic engagement. PTA Rally Day 2025 served as a powerful reminder that advocacy plays a vital role in the future of Texas public schools.
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