GOAL High School has long been a pioneer of innovation in education. “Learning by doing” is at the heart of GOAL’s experiential learning program, Through GOAL Ventures, students complete online curriculum in a core subject area as a prerequisite. Trips include Mount Rushmore, Goblin Valley, Leadville, and many more. One of the most popular is the GOAL Day at the Capitol… where students and staff receive the royal treatment at the Colorado State Capitol! The following is one student’s reflection and one student’s photography.

GOAL VENTURES to the State Capitol!

By Annabelle Reeves, Journalism Intern & GOAL High School Senior

The Capitol is the house of the people, but do students have a place here too? During a visit to the Denver Capitol, senators, legislators, and representatives repeatedly said, “This is the people’s house, and your opinion matters here.” They emphasized that the Capitol belongs to everyone and that it’s their duty to serve the public, but what does this mean for students under 18 who can’t vote?

Group photo of GOAL staff and students on the steps of the Colorado State Capitol'

The “Team Picture” of the 2025 journey to “The People’s House” including GOAL students, the President of the Board, Chief Officers, Principals and GOAL Ventures Program Staff. The trip is just one of many “Ventures” GOAL students and staff take part in!

GOAL High School students and staff embark upon an annual GOAL Ventures trip to the Colorado State Capitol. This year they spent time on the floor of the House and Senate, along with a tour of the Colorado Supreme Court. Despite not being able to vote, the decisions made at the Capitol significantly impact students’ lives. When we arrived to observe our government, we were warmly welcomed, and every person we encountered answered our questions with enthusiasm. It was amazing to feel honored in a space we initially thought was too formal for students.

A key factor in this experience was learning about lobbyists, who represent schools within the Capitol, ensuring our voices are heard and our needs are met. Their advocacy helps create an atmosphere where students are actively involved in the political process.

After spending a day at the Capitol, it’s clear that it’s not just the house of the people but the house for all, including students. With the support of Colorado’s government officials, students can play a significant role in decision-making and ensure their perspectives are reflected in the laws that govern them.

Dr. Derek Staves, Principal of the Denver Region of GOAL High School and Governor Jared Polis on the steps of the Capitol supporting School Choice. Dr. Staves went on to deliver a passionate speech about the need for caring, supportive and personalized education to develop productive members of society. GOAL is a long-established charter school authorized by District 49 and serving more than 6,500 students statewide.