Youth in Governance

The Bayfield County Board of Supervisors in coordination with the Bayfield County 4-H & Youth Development office is offering a new Bayfield County Youth in Governance Program . This program is designed to give high school students in grades 10-12 living in Bayfield County a firsthand look at how the county board functions and the responsibilities it holds.

How to apply

  1. Submit the online application or email/mail in completed PDF application
  2. Ask an unrelated adult to fill out and submit the reference form

Completed applications and references should be submitted to program coordinator, Ian Meeker, by November 15th, 2024.

Email to: Ian.Meeker@wisc.edu

Mail to:

Bayfield County Extension Office

Ian Meeker

PO Box 218

Washburn, WI 54891

Drop off: 4-H Youth Development Office, Room 203, 2nd floor of Bayfield County Courthouse, Washburn

Meetings & Term: Youth accepted to the team will meet on the second Wednesday of each month January-December, 2025.

Location: Meetings will take place at the Bayfield County Courthouse in Washburn. Meetings may also take place via Zoom.

General Responsibilities:

  1. Attendance- if you cannot attend we expect you to let us know.
  2. Attend trainings and conduct yourself within the established guidelines for the Youth in Governance Program.
  3. Come prepared having reviewed meeting materials.
  4. Share your perspective and listen to others with respect and curiosity.

Qualifications:

  1. Currently a sophomore,  junior or senior in high school
  2. Ability to attend scheduled meetings at the courthouse in Washburn
  3. Access to transportation to attend these meetings
  4. Ability to effectively work with other people in a structured setting to examine and understand current issues facing Bayfield County.
  5. Good organizational and verbal skills.
  6. Willing to openly express oneself to both a youth and adult audience.

By participating youth will:

· Enhance Decision-Making Skills: Learn how to make informed decisions that impact our community.

· Understand Local Issues: Gain insight into how local issues are identified, supported, and resolved.

· Improve Communication: Develop communication skills by working with county board members and other community leaders.

·Gain Leadership Skills: Build leadership skills and gain confidence in ability to think critically and communicate opinions.

· Experience Community Engagement: Become more involved in their community and understand the importance of civic participation.

· Explore Careers: Explore potential career paths in public service and government agencies.

Ian Meeker

Youth in Governance Program Advisor

University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension

715-373-3289    ian.meeker@wisc.edu

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