Temecula City Council revives youth in government program to engage local students

The Temecula City Council meeting on January 28, 2025, sparked excitement as council members unanimously agreed to revive the Youth in Government program, a long-missed initiative aimed at engaging local students in civic education. Council members expressed their enthusiasm for the program's return, highlighting its previous success and the potential benefits for students across the city.

Councilman Barron emphasized the importance of including private and homeschool students, stating, "I think it's something that's been missing in the city for far too long." The council's consensus included a phased approach to gradually expand the program, initially focusing on high school students before incorporating younger learners and those from alternative education settings.

Mayor Kalfas and other council members discussed the program's objectives, which include fostering familiarity with city operations, encouraging civil discourse, and promoting careers in the public sector. The council also explored innovative ways to engage students, such as hosting tours of City Hall and involving local commissioners in outreach efforts.

In addition to the Youth in Government program, the council addressed the need to revisit the Senior Master Plan, which was last updated a decade ago. Council Member Ron proposed a status update to assess progress and gather community input on evolving needs.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism as council members committed to enhancing civic engagement among both youth and seniors, setting the stage for a more connected and informed community. The anticipated implementation of the Youth in Government program is set for later this year, promising to inspire the next generation of civic leaders in Temecula.