OUR HOUSE Open House: Details

Hey y'all,

I'm super excited about the energy we're seeing for the OUR HOUSE Open House on Monday from 1-4pm at the Capitol Rm. E2.1006. In case you haven't heard of it already or haven't known how to share, it is a fun way to get y'all comfortable with going down to the TX Capitol (aka OUR House), making your way around, and talking to our local representatives. Read on for all the info!

--Daphne Hoffacker, ACPTA Advocacy Chair

Getting There

Parking

Map including Visitors Parking Garage

Your best bet is to park in the Capitol Visitors Parking Garage on the corner of 12th and San Jacinto. It is free for two hours and $1 after that. If that is full, for some reason, you can find parking maps here.   

Security

Going through the security line (it's easy!)

You will have to go through a screener, similar to the airport. You won't have to take off your shoes and you're fine bringing in food and water. They don't allow sticks (like the kind attached to signs, for example) or longish knives, I hear. I have brought in full-sized scissors dozens of times and never had a problem. They're looking for weapons. Don't bring in a weapon.

Our Room: E21006

Map of floorplan including our room: E2.1006

Make your way to the Rotunda (big circular room in the middle) then head to the north hallway, which is the one closest to UT. You'll find elevators on either side of that hallway almost immediately that will take you down to E2. Off the elevator, look for a long hallway and follow it until it opens up and look for our room on the right. We will have volunteers holding signs along your route. 

What to Expect

Friendly PTA Faces!

There will be a number of tables with post cards and instructions for how to get started on your scavenger hunt. Other tables will have information about school funding issues, how to advocate, information about how to contact your representatives, and more. You'll especially love our School Funding cornhole game, which will illuminate and educate while keeping the little ones entertained. We'll also have snacks and, hopefully, a rolling presentation with highlights and fun facts. When you complete your scavenger hunt, there will be small prizes available. 

Feel free to drop in at any time. The scavenger hunt should take about 45 minutes and can/should be done in groups. One of the stops on the scavenger hunt is to visit your representative's office. And others, if you want. We will have lists of opportunities for you to have your say. You don't have to, by the way, Simply dropping off your card is enough. But..... if you dooo have something you want to say, this is your opportunity. 

Remember, be kind, even if you're frustrated. We want them to see that we're partners in creating a better world for our kids, teachers, and schools.