Under the warm glow of city hall lights, the Youth City Council of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, stands as a beacon of civic engagement for students eager to learn about their local government. This unique program not only educates young minds about municipal processes but also fosters a sense of community among its members. Kaylee Morris, the current vice mayor of the Youth City Council, embodies the spirit of this initiative. Having relocated to Broken Arrow, she joined the program to deepen her connection with her new community. Now in her third year, Kaylee reflects on her journey, stating, “What makes it special to me now is the community of friends I've built.”

The Youth City Council is designed to immerse students in the workings of local government, offering them hands-on experiences that extend beyond the classroom. Participants engage in various activities, from touring public facilities to collaborating with city council members. Kaylee emphasizes the program's goal of empowering youth to identify community needs and take action. “We promote youth to care about their city and want to make change,” she explains.

With years of experience and numerous volunteer hours under her belt, Kaylee believes the benefits of the Youth City Council reach far beyond immediate involvement. The networking opportunities and friendships formed within the program are invaluable, providing connections that last well into adulthood. “The information and skills you learn here will be useful when you enter the real world,” she notes, highlighting the program's lasting impact on its members.

As the Youth City Council prepares for the next cohort, they invite incoming sophomores from Broken Arrow or those eligible to attend Broken Arrow public schools to apply. Interested students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, submit a letter of recommendation, create a video introduction, and write a 250-word essay. This initiative not only nurtures future leaders but also strengthens the fabric of the Broken Arrow community, ensuring that the voices of its youth are heard and valued.