Alderwood Club advocates for youth engagement in school board decisions

The Lynnwood City Council held a work session on June 18, 2025, focusing on youth engagement and inclusivity in community initiatives. The meeting began with discussions on how to broaden participation opportunities for students in local programs. Council members emphasized the importance of allowing diverse methods for youth to express themselves, such as submitting videos instead of traditional essays.

Ruth Cassidy, a representative from the Alderwood Boys and Girls Club, highlighted a significant disconnect between youth and their communities. She expressed concern over the lack of youth representation at council meetings and stressed the need for young people to feel valued and heard. Cassidy advocated for creating platforms where youth can voice their concerns and suggestions, which she believes will foster a sense of community involvement and responsibility among the younger generation.

Safety was also a key topic, with Cassidy addressing the need for measures to protect youth when engaging in these initiatives. She reassured council members that parents are capable of making informed decisions regarding their children's participation and that many youth are already active online.

The council acknowledged the importance of these discussions and the potential impact on community engagement. As the meeting progressed, members expressed their commitment to ensuring that youth voices are included in local governance and decision-making processes. The session concluded with a reminder of the need to return to the agenda and continue with the planned presentations.

Overall, the meeting underscored a collective effort to bridge the gap between youth and local government, aiming to cultivate a more inclusive environment for future generations.