Got a passion for local government and reside in Delaware County? There's an open call for high school juniors and seniors to join the Junior County Council for the 2025–2026 school year. This program isn't just about observing the ins and outs of how local government ticks; it's a chance for students to get in on the action, rub elbows with the decision-makers, and even help out with community projects, as detailed in the County of Delaware's recent announcement.
Applications are welcome until July 18, and the interview process kicks off a few days later on July 21, but don't dilly-dally if you're interested; Delaware County is selecting between two and six students for this gig, so it might get competitive. Participants are basically signing up for a crash course in policy, leadership, and community engagement, breaking bread with the big shots at bi-monthly Council meetings, and digging into initiatives aimed at public service.
The County Council's Chair Dr. Monica Taylor believes in the energy this program infuses into the local government, stating, "Through Junior County Council, we’re providing an exciting, invaluable pathway for young leaders to gain experience, build confidence, and understand the real impact they can have on their communities," in a statement obtained by Delaware County's news release. Vice Chair Richard Womack echoes the sentiment by championing the empowerment of students as they "learn how to lead with purpose."
Feedback from the trenches has been positive too, Adam Cuica, a current participant and rising senior at Penncrest High School, sang its praises saying, "This program is helping me understand that government isn’t just policy—it’s people working every day to solve real problems," according to a Delaware County interview and Joy Thomas another member of the program added, "For me, this program has truly given me the confidence to be able to present, speak, and interact with our Council and community members, actively listen and assist with the needs of our surrounding communities, and lead with purpose alongside other students who I have become close friends with during my time spent in Junior County Council."
Ready to step into the shoes of a Junior County Council member? If you tick the boxes of being a rising junior or senior in Delaware County, grab this opportunity to make a difference in your hood, and watch out, September, that's when the 2025–2026 program officially kicks off. Under the wing of County Council mentors and senior staff, participants will get a dose of how the county ticks through various activities and initiatives engineered to boost their civic awareness and urge community involvement.
