Idaho delegates to U.S. Senate Youth Program speak to Senate Education Committee

Two Idaho high school students chosen as delegates to the U.S. Senate Youth Program and two alternates introduced themselves to the Idaho Senate Education Committee and discussed the program and their views on K–12 education.

The U.S. Senate Youth Program, established by Senate resolution in 1962, sends two student delegates from each state to Washington, D.C., for a week of briefings with senators, cabinet members and federal officials; delegates receive a $10,000 undergraduate scholarship. A State Department of Education representative introduced the program and the students at the committee meeting.

“I'm super honored to be one of the delegates to go to Washington D.C.,” said Adalie Elam of Fruitland High School, who said she is considering either pre‑law or pre‑med and added she hopes to run for public office someday. Delegate Jenny Hammond of Emmett High School said the application process and interviews taught skills she expects to use in college and beyond: “I used the skills that I learned in this program and that's what makes this program so incredible.”

Alternates introduced themselves as well. Nicholas “Nick” Mendez, a senior at Caldwell High School and an alternate, said he will attend Stanford University and plans to study Earth and Planetary Science and international relations. Mason Gibbons of Eagle, an alternate, said he will attend the U.S. Naval Academy to study nuclear engineering; he described the program as valuable for learning to engage respectfully with differing viewpoints.

Committee members asked the students about eligibility and selection. A committee member confirmed finalists included seniors and that finalists met a panel for interviews and multi‑hour question sessions. The committee chair invited the students to offer suggestions on improving Idaho’s education system. Two finalists did so: Nick Mendez urged stronger teacher support and expanded career and technical education (CTE) offerings, telling the committee that “having the care of the teacher … is a big part of” student success and praising local CTE programs for creating direct career pathways. Frances Camille, a student from Wood River High School, said the state’s focus on career pathways has been beneficial but suggested changes to extracurricular structures so student leadership roles are accessible to students who must work to support their families.

The committee thanked the students and moved on to its scheduled bill business.

The presentation included the two delegates — Adalie Elam and Jenny Hammond — and alternates Nick Mendez and Mason Gibbons, plus additional student commentators and committee members who questioned them.