By Sara Beth Williams–
Citrus Heights is taking its first steps toward launching new programs designed to connect local youth with city government and foster civic engagement.
During a Citrus Heights City Council meeting on Feb. 26, City Clerk Amy Van outlined several potential ideas on how the city plans to engage youth from local schools in local government affairs. City Council members praised the preliminary initiatives, saying they were “very impressed” and that the programs would “provide a track for future leaders.”
The youth program ideas outlined stemmed from conversations that have taken place between city staff, San Juan Unified School District representatives, and local Citrus Heights school principals, the city said.
Van introduced several ideas, the first being the establishment of a “Student in Government Day,” geared toward high school-aged students. Students would be able to meet and interact with city staff and council members, learn about city departments, participate in discussions on local city projects, shadow city council members, and participate in city council meetings.
The second idea presented involves creating a summer internship or public service program geared toward youth ages 16 to 20 who could gain local government affairs experience by working for the city.
The third idea involves establishing a Youth Advisory Commission, where youth would apply and be appointed by the same process in which other members of the community are appointed to other committees. Members would be an advisory body to the city council and would discuss topics deemed important to youth in the city and provide periodic updates.
Lastly, the city introduced the idea of holding a middle school public debate program, where middle school students could research a topic and present arguments for or against in a debate format.
“It would give the students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills, public speaking, and engage civically,” Van said.
City council members directed the city to begin with implementing a Students in Government Day and “phase in” the other proposed ideas based on continued feedback from local principals and district representatives.
The city has in the past collaborated with youth from local schools, including inviting student council members from San Juan High School to present in October 2024, hosting tours for youth organizations of City Hall throughout the last year, and joining Lichen K-8 on a commemorative Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, which is an annual event held on Nov. 14.
The goal of creating youth in government programming stemmed from a strategic objective developed at a strategic planning retreat held by the city in March 2024.
