RHS students selected to participate in Youth in Governance program

Matthew Carpenter and Parker Lee are about to get an inside look at how local government works. The two Rhinelander High School students have been selected to participate in the Oneida County Youth in Governance Program—an immersive civic engagement initiative designed to empower students through direct involvement in local government.
The University of Wisconsin Extension Oneida County announced the teens’ selection late last week.
“From September through January, student representatives will attend monthly Oneida County government committee meetings, where they will observe and contribute to discussions on issues impacting the community,” according to the Extension press release. “ In addition, they will attend at least one full meeting of the Oneida County Board of Supervisors during this term, the release states.
Each student representative is paired with an Oneida County board supervisor/mentor, offering a unique opportunity to learn firsthand about the responsibilities and decision-making processes of elected officials. Students arrive early to each meeting to meet with their mentor, allowing time for preparation, mentorship, and reflection.
“This interaction is a key component of the program, fostering meaningful relationships and a deeper understanding of civic leadership,” the release states.

Before attending committee meetings, students participated in a welcome orientation and Courthouse Day training, which included lunch with members of the Oneida County Executive Committee. Students will also take part in a cohort gathering and training session in November.
The program will culminate in February, when students will be formally recognized for their contributions at a full county board meeting.”
The Oneida County Youth in Governance Program offers students opportunities for:
Youth leadership development and youth empowerment through direct participation in county government decision-making
Real-life learning opportunities for youth in the functioning of local government
Direct youth voice to community issues and concerns
Fostering the development of confident, capable, and independent leaders for the next generation.
For more information about the Oneida County Youth in Governance program, contact Anne Williams, Oneida County 4-H Educator, at 715-365-2750 or by email at apwilliams@wisc.edu, or visit https://oneida.extension.wisc.edu.