Baton Rouge Students Encouraged to Apply for mayor’s Youth Advisory Council
baton Rouge, Louisiana – January 22, 2026 – High school students across East Baton Rouge Parish are invited to apply for a unique chance to shape the future of their city. The Office of the Mayor-President is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 class of the Mayor’s youth Advisory Council (MYAC), a program designed to empower young voices in local government. The application deadline is 5 p.m. on February 13, 2026.
The MYAC provides a platform for students in grades 9-12 to engage directly with city leaders,contribute to vital community discussions,and develop essential leadership skills. Interested students can find the application and detailed program data on the City-Parish website: https://www.brla.gov/3404/Mayors-Youth-Advisory-Council.
A Voice for Baton Rouge’s Youth
The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council isn’t simply a symbolic gesture; it’s a vital component of inclusive governance in Baton Rouge. Established to ensure that the perspectives of young residents are considered in policy-making, the MYAC allows students to directly influence decisions impacting their lives and the future of the city. This commitment to youth engagement reflects a broader trend in local government, recognizing that young people are not just the future, but active stakeholders in the present.
“We believe that young people have valuable insights and innovative ideas that can help us build a better Baton rouge,” stated a representative from the Mayor-President’s Office. “The MYAC is a crucial avenue for fostering civic engagement and developing the next generation of leaders.”
Who is Eligible and What are the Selection Criteria?
The program is open to all high school students residing in east Baton Rouge Parish, regardless of whether they attend public, private, or charter schools, or are homeschooled. However, selection is competitive. Applicants will be evaluated based on a demonstrated commitment to leadership, a genuine interest in public service, and a proven ability to contribute positively to the community.
Beyond academic achievement, the selection committee will be looking for students who have actively participated in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or other initiatives that demonstrate their dedication to service and their ability to collaborate with others. A strong application will articulate a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Baton Rouge, and a thoughtful vision for how the applicant can contribute to solutions.
what Does participation in the MYAC Entail?
Members of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council will have the opportunity to:
* Influence Policy: Provide direct input on issues impacting young people, such as education, transportation, recreation, and public safety. this input is presented to the Mayor-President and relevant city departments, potentially shaping future policies and initiatives.
* Engage with Leaders: Interact with local officials, community leaders, and subject matter experts, gaining valuable insights into the workings of local government and the challenges of civic leadership.
* Participate in Civic Initiatives: Contribute to community outreach efforts, participate in city-wide events, and collaborate on projects designed to address local needs.
* develop Essential Skills: Hone leadership, advocacy, dialogue, and problem-solving skills through participation in council meetings, workshops, and collaborative projects.These skills are invaluable for future success in any field.
The Importance of Youth Civic Engagement
The benefits of youth civic engagement extend far beyond the individual participants. Research consistently demonstrates that young people who are actively involved in their communities are more likely to become engaged citizens throughout their lives.This engagement fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility,leading to increased voter participation,volunteerism,and community involvement.
according to a report by the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) at Tufts University, https://civicyouth.org/, young people are increasingly concerned about social and political issues, and are eager to find ways to make a difference. Programs like the MYAC provide a structured and supportive habitat for them to do so.
Furthermore,involving young people in decision-making processes can lead to more innovative and effective solutions.Young people often bring fresh perspectives and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking, which can be invaluable in addressing complex community challenges.
How to Apply and Were to Find more information
Interested students are encouraged to submit their applications online through the City-parish website by the February 13th deadline. The application process typically involves submitting an online form, providing a resume or list of activities, and writing a short essay outlining their interest in the program and their vision for contributing to the community.
For questions about the program or the application process, please contact the Office of the Mayor-President at 225-389-3100 or via email at mayoryac@brla.gov.
The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council represents a significant investment in the future of Baton Rouge. By empowering young voices and fostering civic engagement, the
