Five Estes Park High School seniors recently informed the Estes Park School Board about their summer experiences at the American Legion Auxiliary Colorado Girls State, highlighting how the program taught them more than just political mechanics. Silvanna Alvarez, Natalie Luna, Danna Rodriguez, Daisy Rojas, and Amy Schwartz represented Estes Park at the 78th session of the program, held from June 7-13 last summer at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling. During their presentation to the Board of Education at its Oct. 21 meeting, the students emphasized finding their voices and using them to make a difference.
The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors Girls State as a nonpartisan citizenship and leadership program. Established in the late 1930s, it immerses young women in government by having them operate a simulated political system. Annually, approximately 16,000 young women nationwide participate. Delegates are assigned to mock cities, with some Estes Park students assigned to a city called Elegance, and divided into two political parties: the Federalists and Nationalists. Participants campaign for office, elect officials, and engage in writing and debating legislation, learning about local, county, and state government operations.
Students described legislative debates covering diverse subjects, including data centers, sexual abuse, and programs for troubled teens. Natalie Luna noted to the board that a significant takeaway was how women possess the power to change communities with their voices. Luna also shared how the experience gave her a new appreciation for citizenship, public service, and veterans, stating she felt deeply honored to celebrate her nationality in this manner. She highlighted the meaningful aspect of observing young women with sharply differing political views debate complex issues while maintaining mutual respect.
The program provided various leadership opportunities and fostered personal growth. Students met women involved in state government, including Colorado state Rep. Brandi Bradley, whose discussion on addressing sexual misconduct in politics left a strong impression on Luna. Meeting such leaders helped participants envision themselves pursuing public office. Beyond politics, Alvarez described a talent show that allowed delegates to share abilities, appreciate talents, and build friendships. The week also featured formal events, a graduation ceremony, and educational opportunities about veterans, citizenship, and traditions related to the American flag. Luna reiterated the importance of self-expression, asserting that young women should never be silenced.
Board members inquired whether an all-female leadership program encouraged students to speak up. Luna affirmed that the environment empowered young women to express opinions, even when disagreements arose. She noted that delegates from their mock city achieved leadership positions, including a county judgeship, and two participants were chosen to attend Girls Nation in Washington, D.C. For some Estes Park students, the experience shifted their perspective on politics, sparking a desire to become more involved. Board members praised the students and sought ways to increase future participation. A student suggested improved outreach, especially to those in concurrent enrollment courses who might miss traditional classroom presentations, proposing that flyers in the library and history class presentations might not reach all eligible students.
The Board members emphasized the value of learning legislative processes, negotiating differences, and working across political divisions, regardless of career paths. Later in the meeting, school administrators commended the presentation as a prime example of students developing confidence through leadership opportunities. For Luna, the ultimate lesson was that young women do not need to wait until adulthood to make their voices heard, underscoring that the future rests with them. She thanked the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary for their support. Applications for the 2027 Colorado Girls State conference are scheduled to open on November 1.