Mayor’s Youth Council now accepting nominations in Laurens

With the start of a new school year approaching, the City of Laurens has opened the nomination period for the Mayor’s Youth Council.

The program is aimed at high school students with an interest in local government, leadership, community outreach and civic engagement. Members work alongside Mayor Senn and city leaders, offering a student perspective on issues facing Laurens and taking part in efforts to shape the community’s future.

For students, the council is an early look at how municipal government actually works, from the decisions that come before city leaders to the day-to-day work of keeping a city running. It also gives young people a seat at the table on matters that affect their generation directly, along with experience in public speaking, collaboration and community service that carries into college applications and future careers.

Participation is by nomination rather than open application. Teachers and advisers submit the names of students they believe would represent their schools and their peers well, and members are then appointed.

Because of that process, students who want to be considered need to make their interest known. City officials encourage interested students to speak with a teacher, coach, guidance counselor or principal at the start of the school year so their names can be put forward.

“I can’t wait to see what a great group we will get together this year,” Senn said.

Parents are also encouraged to talk with their students about the opportunity and to help them connect with a school staff member who can nominate them.

Nominations are being accepted now.