Dane County Youth Governance Program Now Accepting Applications for 2025-2026 School Year

May 13, 2025
Dane County Board Office, (608) 266-5758
County Board

Madison – The Dane County Youth Governance Program (YGP) is accepting applications for the 2025/2026 cohort from Friday, May 9th, until Friday, June 20th.

The YGP, established in 2012, is an annual program that encourages high school-aged students 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. YGP participants have the same opportunities for committee participation and involvement as elected county supervisors, with the distinction that their vote is advisory and non-binding.

Participants of the YGP work closely with Dane County Board Supervisors acting as mentors to help develop their skills in civic engagement. Additionally, participants meet regularly and work closely with other youth in the program on a project presentation to present to the County Board at the end of the YGP term.  

Requirements for the program include the applicant currently being in grades 9-11 (10-12 in the fall), availability to participate in at least 75% of in-person and virtual YGP meetings, and 6-8 hours of YGP work per month. Students interested in the program are recommended to attend committee meetings (information available on Legistar), watch county board meetings online, and review the functions and descriptions of different committees. 

“The Youth Governance Program gives students the opportunity to play an active role in advancing Dane County initiatives, ensuring that the perspectives of Dane County youth are heard and valued in shaping their own futures,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles.

For more information on application requirements, program structure, and expectations, view the Dane County Youth Governance Program website: https://dane.extension.wisc.edu/14085-2/