After launching with a global voice in diplomacy, Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School’s Shamin Hotels Speaker Series turned its focus closer to home, inviting state lawmakers into direct conversation with students, families and staff.

On April 10, the series continued with a student-led Legislators Forum on Education and Civic Engagement, designed to create space for meaningful dialogue. Organized by the Foundation Fellows, the event flipped a familiar model: Instead of students traveling to the Capitol, state legislators came to Maggie Walker.

“We wanted to give more students the chance to engage directly with their representatives,” said Anushri Ramesh, a senior and Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School Foundation Fellow, who helped coordinate the event. “Not everyone could make it to advocacy days or legislative visits – so this brought that opportunity here.” 

The idea grew out of previous student advocacy efforts, where Maggie Walker students traveled to share concerns and ideas with policymakers. This time, the fellows saw an opportunity to expand access and deepen the conversation.

The evening was designed to go beyond a traditional panel. Legislators first experienced the school through student-led tours, followed by a reception with faculty and fellows before the main event: a moderated Q&A driven by questions submitted by students and families. The panel included:

  • Del. Betsy Carr, D, 78th District (City of Richmond)
  • Del. Lindsey Dougherty, D, 75th District (Chesterfield and Prince George counties, and Hopewell)
  • Del. Debra G. Gardner, D, 76th District (Chesterfield County)
  • Del. Michael Jones, D, 15th District, (County of Chesterfield and City of Richmond)
  • Del. May Nivar, D, 57th District (Goochland and Henrico counties)
  • Del. Charles H. Schmidt, Jr., D, 77th District (Chesterfield County and City of Richmond)
  • Sen. Schuyler VanValkenburg, D, District 16 (Henrico County)
  • Del. R. Lee Ware, R, 72nd District (Amelia, Chesterfield, Nottoway and Powhatan counties)

The Foundation Fellows intentionally opted for the question-and-answer format. The moderator was Dr. Ben Pearson-Nelson, father of MLWGS senior Jake Nelson, who is president of both the Virginia PTSA and MLWGS PTSA.

“We collected questions directly from our community,” Ramesh explained. “So what was discussed reflected what people actually wanted to know – whether that was education funding, opportunities or how decisions get made.” 

Exploring state impact on education

During the event, the conversation quickly moved into questions about how decisions at the state level shape classrooms, opportunities and outcomes for students across Virginia.

For many legislators, education is both personal and foundational to their work. VanValkenburg, a longtime government teacher and MLWGS alum parent, reflected on how his classroom experience continues to shape his approach to policy. “I believe that democracy is awesome… and it’s the best system for ensuring people succeed in life and thrive,” he said, underscoring the connection between strong schools and strong communities. 

Students pressed into some of the most pressing issues in education today – including funding, equity and the unique position of regional schools such as Maggie Walker. Legislators acknowledged that while programs like governor’s schools are often seen as high-performing, they still face structural challenges when it comes to funding and visibility. Several noted that gaps in policy often come not from intent, but from systems that haven’t fully evolved.

“There are gaps,” Schmidt explained. “Sometimes the system is set up, and you get years down the road and realize there has to be a fix.” That insight reinforced a key message for students that education policy is not static, but rather requires ongoing advocacy, awareness and input from those directly impacted.

Equity across school divisions also emerged as a central theme. Legislators pointed to differences in resources and opportunity between districts, highlighting how those disparities can shape student preparation long before they arrive at a school like Maggie Walker. The conversation made clear that addressing those gaps is complex, but essential to ensuring all students have access to high-quality education.

At the same time, panelists emphasized the importance of expanding how education is defined. From career and technical education to advanced academic programs, the goal is to create and support pathways that meet a wide range of student needs, while ensuring that academic excellence remains a priority.

The legislators also encouraged students to take a look for learning opportunities outside the classroom, such as internships and mentorships.

“If you have a passion for social issues, there are groups that specifically deal with specific issues or a broad array of issues,” said Ware, another career educator and MLWGS alum parent. “There are professional organizations of all types, and you might take a look at some of those. Some of them can give you a real opportunity to pursue something that’s of interest to you.”

A first-hand look into government

For students, the forum represented more than just a chance to listen. It allowed them an opportunity to better understand how government connects to their daily lives and to see themselves as part of that process.

“This gave students a chance to talk to their legislators and ask questions that matter to them,” said Frankie Monroe, another senior and Foundation Fellow. “It helped to build connections and understanding that they can carry forward.” 

At a school that draws students from across 14 localities, those questions are often shaped by a wide range of experiences. Differences in school systems, resources and preparation all play a role in shaping how students think about education – and what they hope to address.

“A lot of students are interested in how different counties impact opportunities,” said Alina Laraway, also a senior and Foundation Fellow, “and how that connects to funding, resources and the Maggie Walker experience.” 

Families were also a key part of the audience.

“Parents bring a different perspective, especially around things like college funding and long-term planning,” Laraway said.

But beyond specific topics, the broader goal was awareness – and engagement.

“Not every student knows what’s happening in the education system they’re part of,” Ramesh said. “This aimed to break that barrier and help people feel more informed and connected.” 

Foundation Executive Director Ginger O’Neil said, “This is the first time the Foundation has done such an event. I was gratified that eight legislators accepted our invitation. As a very unique school that receives no federal funding, support for state legislators is vital for Maggie Walker – and support begins with awareness and engagement.”