Local high school students in St. Johns County have recently gained a rare look into the inner workings of their local government thanks to the second annual St. Johns County Student Shadow Program. As reported by the St. Johns County website, three ambitious students took part in this opportunity to closely observe and to learn from county officials across a range of departments, from June 9 to 17. Alexandra Nay, Ishikta Kumari, and Srija Patchipulusu are the students who were selected to take on the week-plus journey through the ins and outs of county governance.
The program's schedule was packed with informative tours and vital activities at key facilities—including the County Administration, the Emergency Operations Center, and Utilities water and wastewater treatment plants. Savannah Evans, the St. Johns County Administrative Manager, explained the intent behind the program in a statement. "The St. Johns Student Shadow Program is designed to engage and empower local youth by providing them with a firsthand look at how county government works," she said.
During their shadowing experience, Nay, Kumari, and Patchipulusu not only embarked on tours but also attended an Economic Development Industry Roundtable with healthcare companies and gained access to public board meetings. The objective was to show them various facets of public service—from maintenance of public spaces to complex policy discussions directly impacting residents of St. Johns County. The program was carefully crafted to encourage the participating students to ask questions, to engage in dialogue with local leaders, and think critically about the challenges and operations of their community.
Evans had more to say about this year's cohort, lauded for their engagement and insight. "We were so fortunate to have Alexandra, Ishikta, and Srija join us this year," she told the St. Johns County website. "They brought energy, curiosity, and thoughtful perspectives that truly reflect future leadership we hope to see here in St. Johns County and wherever their bright futures take them." This enthusiasm from the county's administrative manager underlines the program's success in connecting eager students with the potential realities of careers in public service.
The St. Johns County Office of Public Affairs has taken the initiative to package these experiences into a video summary, which includes interviews with the students who participated.
