Dane County Youth Governance Program Participants to Begin Term

September 06, 2024
County Board Chair Patrick Miles, (608) 886-9167
County Board

High school students from around Dane County will now begin their advisory roles in the Youth Governance Program (YGP), an annual program that gives students the opportunity to engage in county government decision-making, provide a youth perspective for local projects and community issues, and gain the skills necessary for a new generation of active leaders and professionals.

“As another year of the Youth Governance Program begins, it’s important to put a spotlight on the ambition and the innovative mindsets of high school youth. They bring a refreshing perspective to county government, and we look forward to seeing the contributions they make to their communities,” said County Board Supervisor Brenda Yang (District 19). 

This follows last night’s County Board meeting, where the participants, grades 10 through 12, were “pinned,” signaling the beginning of their duties. Fifteen students will participate in this year’s program, and will be assigned to serve on various standing Dane County committees, boards and commissions. Each student will have a County Board Supervisor as a mentor throughout the program.

“The Youth Governance Program gives students the opportunity to play an active role in advancing Dane County through their respective committees,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles (District 34). “This initiative is crucial to ensuring that the perspectives of our youth are heard and valued in shaping their own futures.”

Students were selected from the following Dane County high schools: Oregon, Middleton, McFarland, Waunakee, Verona, Edgewood, Monona Grove, Sun Prairie, Vel Phillips Memorial, and the Madison Country Day School.