From Vallejo to Washington, D.C.: Students Discover Leadership, Civic Engagement, and Community

A delegation of seven students from Vallejo City Unified School District (VCUSD) recently embarked on a transformative journey to Washington, D.C., as members of a youth delegation that participated in the  National League of Cities (NLC) Conference. This impactful trip, co-sponsored by the City of Vallejo and VCUSD, was designed to cultivate civic engagement, hone leadership abilities, and expand professional networks.

Taylor Barton (Jesse Bethel), Zanyah DeLeon (John Finney), Harnold Fuentes Bustos (Vallejo), VCUSD Student Trustees Ricardo Morales (Vallejo) and Alaysia Simmons (Jesse Bethel), Sonia “Sofi” Valdez (Vallejo), and Precilla Williams (Jesse Bethel) were the seven students who spent four days in the nation’s capital. As youth delegates for the City of Vallejo, they attended the NLC Conference, where they participated in discussions on civic responsibility, collaborated with youth leaders from across the country, and explored innovative solutions to community issues. 

One of the highlights of the trip was an exclusive meeting with Congressman John Garamendi. 

"Meeting the Congressman and walking to the Capitol was the most memorable part,” Barton from Jesse Bethel High School shared. “It diminished the stigma surrounding politics and politicians. He’s not a person of color, and so I assumed there would be a disconnect, but he really understood the issues we were facing. He was empathetic, responsive, and had an optimism that I loved. There was hope in his voice."

Following the conference, the team visited Howard University, an Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), where they connected with faculty and students and learned about the university’s legacy and academic programs. They also visited national monuments and museums, offering first-hand exposure to the nation's history and cultural significance. 

Beyond leadership development, the trip fostered a deep sense of connection. 

"Being around so many teenagers who think like me and have similar goals and dreams—it gave me a sense of belonging that you don’t always get in school with so many different people," Taylor said. 

"One of my favorite moments was making friends from all over the country,” Williams added. “We had serious conversations, but we also had a lot of fun—mini golfing with students from Illinois and Texas, hanging out in D.C. It was unforgettable."

This enriching experience strengthened the students’ leadership and advocacy skills while reinforcing the importance of civic engagement. As they return to Vallejo, they bring new perspectives and inspiration, ready to impact their schools and community.

This trip has undoubtedly left a lasting mark on these future leaders of Vallejo, equipping them with the confidence, connections, and inspiration to help shape their communities and beyond.