DANE COUNTY, Wis. — The Dane County Youth Governance Program (YGP) is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 cohort. Applications are open from Monday, May 11, 2026, through Friday, June 26, 2026.
Established in 2012, the YGP offers high school students a meaningful opportunity to engage directly in county government decision-making, bring a youth perspective to local issues, and develop the skills needed to become the next generation of community leaders. Throughout the nine-month program, participants serve alongside elected county board supervisors on standing committees, with the same opportunities for participation as supervisors, with the distinction that their vote is advisory and non-binding.
Each participant is paired with a county board supervisor who serves as their mentor, providing one-on-one guidance throughout the year. Participants also meet regularly as a cohort to develop a group project presented to the full county board at the end of the program term.
“The Youth Governance Program is one of the most meaningful ways young people can engage with their county government,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles. “Participants don’t just observe the process; they sit at the table with supervisors, weigh in on real policy decisions, and bring perspectives that strengthen the board’s work. I encourage students across Dane County to apply.”
Who can apply: Students currently in grades 9–11 (entering grades 10–12 in the fall) who can commit to:
- Attending at least 75% of in-person and virtual YGP meetings
- Six to eight hours of YGP work per month from September through May
Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the county board’s standing committees and watch a committee meeting and a board meeting online before applying to get a sense of the work involved.
How to apply: Visit the Dane County Youth Governance Program website at https://dane.extension.wisc.edu/to-apply/ for additional program details, expectations, and the application form.
