2025 HSLP: Day 8

High School Leaders Program Class of 2025
Day 8: Saturday, July 19th
Reported By: Evy Glass (McLean High School, McLean VA) and Armaan Sethi (The Potomac School, McLean VA)

Following a well deserved opportunity to sleep in, everyone gathered for breakfast at O-Hill before making their way to Clark Hall for the Senate Simulation. Attire ranged from casual to professional, with a few students fully suited up and ready to step into the role of state legislators.

Upon arrival, students were divided into Republican and Democratic caucuses. Within each group we all discussed proposed legislation, coordinated strategy, and selected caucus leadership. The majority leader for the democratic party being Kian, and the minority leader for the republican party being Armaan. The morning was filled with fun discussions and questions as each party evaluated the strengths and implications of the bills up for debate.

After caucus meetings, students ate catered Chick-fil-A for lunch before reconvening for committee sessions. Each participant was assigned to one of three committees (Redistribution, Government Services, or Regulation) where they engaged in more focused policy discussions. These committees amended bills, debated provisions, and prepared legislation to be brought before the full Senate.

The afternoon continued with full floor debate, during which students presented, discussed, and voted on the finalized legislation. The simulation reflected the realities of the legislative process in Virginia, including the presence of a Republican governor, which resulted in multiple vetoes on Democrat sponsored bills. These moments showed serious debate and a deeper understanding of bipartisan negotiation and the importance of political context.

After the simulation, students walked back to Dabney House. During the late afternoon, many used their free time to meet with their policy groups and worked on our bibliographies and letters to senators. After, we walked to O-hill for dinner and ate hamburgers and pizza with a Mac and Cheese surprise. After dinner, a large group of students walked to Chipotle and Mincers to buy merch. 

At the end of the day, we walked back to Dabney house and rested.